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An expert guide to mastering exam stress. Dr Tom MacLaren, consultant psychiatrist at Re:Cognition Health, has offered up practical tips to help students cope with exam stress. Plan your study schedule: The first thing you need to do is plan ahead, which will make the work you have to do feel organised and less daunting. ”Break down your subjects into manageable chunks and allocate specific time slots for revision. Make sure to include breaks to avoid burnout.” Practice mindfulness and relaxation techniques: Practising mindfulness can help reduce feelings of anxiety. ”Incorporate relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation or yoga into your daily routine. These practices can help reduce anxiety and improve concentration.” Get enough sleep: Sleep is essential when it comes to brain power. “Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep every night to ensure your mind and body are well-rested.” "Avoid staying up late to cram as this can impair memory and cognitive function.” Eat a balanced diet: Eating a wide range of healthy foods will help fuel your body and reduce anxiety. ”Whilst it's easy to opt for study snacks such as crisps and sweets, it's important to fuel your body with nutritious foods that provide sustained energy throughout the day.” "Avoid excessive caffeine and sugar, which can lead to energy crashes and increased anxiety.” Stay active: Exercise is an effective and enjoyable way to relieve stress. ”Incorporate activities such as walking, jogging or dancing into your routine to reduce stress and improve focus.” Seek support: If you are struggling with your workload, it is always better to ask for help than to feel overwhelmed. ”Talking about your concerns can help alleviate stress and provide perspective.” THIS VIDEO MUST NOT BE EDITED FOR LENGTH TO COMBINE WITH OTHER CONTENT