Exam season can be very overwhelming. Between revision, coursework and deadlines coming up, it’s easy to get stressed, especially if things pile up last minute. However, managing your time, planning ahead, and building a few good habits into your routine can help you stay calm, focused, and even enjoy it a bit more.
At CityBlock, we support students beyond just offering great accommodation. Here are some tips to keep your stress level low and your studies on track.
Plan Ahead
Starting early is one of the best ways to stay calm. Leaving revision until the night before only adds pressure, and it rarely works.
Instead, take a few minutes a week to outline your deadlines and study topics. You don’t need a colour-coded planner or a fancy system, even a to-do list on your phone can help by:
- Break revision into bite-size chunks
- Focus on harder topics first
- Spread study sessions across several days
Earlier planning can stop you from that dreadful feeling of being left behind and also means less panic later on.
Make Time Work for You
Time management doesn’t mean you have to work every minute of the day. It’s about using your time wisely and making time for rest as well.
Some students love morning revision, while others are night owls. So, all you need to do is find when you’re most productive and build a routine around it. Everyone is different, so make sure to work around the time you feel good about. For example:
- Morning: do your most difficult task first and get it out of the way
- Afternoon: Quiz yourself or review notes
- Evening: wind down or prep for the next day
You could also try time blocking or the Pomodoro technique, which involves a 25-minute focus session followed by short breaks. Small changes to how you use your time can actually make a big difference!
Fuel Your Brain
When you’re busy or anxious, eating well often isn’t your first thought. But what you eat and drink massively affects your mood and energy, especially during revision because you’re using up energy when studying. Here are some student-friendly tips that don’t involve living off instant noodles and sugary snacks:
- Stay hydrated: with water or squash instead of energy drinks
- Eat balanced meals: with carbs, protein and vegetables, some easy options include pasta, soups and stir-fries
- Keep snacks nearby: Not sugary ones instead opt for some fresh fruits, nuts or even toast
Caffeine and sugar may give you a boost for some time, but they also can make you crash later on in the day. It doesn’t mean you have to cut them out of your diet completely, just make sure you have a balanced diet. Don’t rely on caffeine and sugar to fuel your brain.
Take Breaks
One of the most underrated study tips is taking breaks in between, as it allows your brain to rest and recharge, leading to improved focus and productivity.
Working for hours with no breaks won’t help you absorb more information, and it can also increase stress. Regular breaks allow your brain time to rest and relax. So, step away from the desk, get some fresh air or grab a snack, anything really that is unrelated to uni.
If you need a change of scenery in Lancaster, why not head to:
- Williamsons Park for a peaceful walk and a breath of fresh air
- The Storey for coffee and a relaxing atmosphere
- Lancaster Canal paths if you need a little stroll
The trick is to step away from anything uni-related for a few minutes; even a quick stretch will do.
Keep Motivation High
Staying motivated when deadlines are everywhere is tough. That’s where rewards come in. You don’t need to wait until exams are over to celebrate, rewarding yourself during the process can keep your energy up. Try these:
- Plan a relaxed day or evening off after a full day of work
- Organise something fun to do with your friends to look forward to once exams end
Having something exciting to look forward to, even if it’s only small, can make studying feel more manageable and less like a chore, especially knowing there’s a reward to look forward to afterwards.
At CityBlock, we design our accommodation to support your lifestyle, especially during busy times like the exam season. Whether it’s quiet spaces to study, super-fast Wi-Fi, or cosy rooms where you can unwind, everything is set up to help you stay focused and feel at home.
We understand exams are important, but so is your mental health. Staying on top of uni work doesn’t mean pushing yourself to your limits, it’s about building routines that work for you, keeping stress under control, and remembering to take care of yourself along the way.
If you’re looking for student accommodation Lancaster that supports your study sessions and make you feel at home, make sure to take a look at the different student accommodations we have to offer here at CityBlock, or take a virtual tour of our premises. If you have any further questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us. One of our helpful team members will be happy to assist you.
