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Summary

Getting your homework done or revising for exams can feel like a bit of a drag for some people, and can even cause you to feel stressed out, overwhelmed and anxious. We’ve put together a list of tips and tricks that can help you if you find homework a struggle, or tend to suffer from exam stress. 

Homework and revision are important parts of your school life. 

Feelings about homework and revision 

Homework and revision give you a chance to practice and to remember what you have learnt in school. Some people enjoy doing homework. Other people can find it difficult and it can cause a mixture of feelings and emotions, including stress, anxiety or nervousness. It’s important to remember that people learn in different ways and that some people learn faster than others. It’s ok to not understand something straight away. 

Tips which can help if you find homework tough 

Ask – If you don’t understand what you have to do, ask someone like a teacher, a friend, or an adult you trust, to explain it to you. 

Snack – Have a snack before you begin. 

Get comfortable – Do your homework somewhere which is comfortable for you and where you have enough space to put everything you need. 

No distractions – Avoid having distractions like a TV, a tablet, or a phone, nearby. 

Plan – Plan what you have to do and tick off each item as you complete it. 

Ask for help – You don’t need to feel embarrassed about asking for help if you need it – you cannot be expected to know everything. 

Exam Stress 

Exam time can be difficult for some students. While some students find this time to be motivational, others can find it stressful. Signs of exam stress include: 

  • Feeling pressured, overwhelmed, confused, angry or upset 
  • Having difficulty waking up, eating or sleeping 
  • Having tummy aches, headaches, feeling sick or having an increased heartbeat 
Tips for coping with exam stress include: 

Quiet place – Find a quiet place to study with enough room for you to have everything you need. 

Plan – Make a plan and tick off each item as you complete it. 

Prepare – Find out as much as you can about the exam in advance – the layout, how much time you will have, how it will be marked, etc 

Take breaks – Take regular short breaks. 

Good diet and sleep – Have a good diet and get enough sleep. 

Reward – Reward yourself when you have completed your plan. 

Get exercise – Get exercise – take part in sport, go for a walk, or even try dancing! 

Help is available 

If you are stressed or concerned about homework, revision, or exams, you are not alone. Help and support is available.  

Is there a trusted adult you can talk to about how you are feeling? Childline is always available to listen to you and support you.  

Key takeaways

  • Remember that people learn in different ways and that some people find it easier or learn things a bit faster or slower than others.
  • If you struggle with homework, try some of our top tips like removing distractions, having a snack, and getting comfy.
  • Some people are motivated by exam time but for many it’s a time of stress and worry.
  • Exam stress can cause you to feel really anxious, have trouble sleeping, or even cause physical symptoms like tummy aches.
  • There is help available if you have problems with homework or revision. If you don’t have someone to talk to, you can always talk to us!

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