Over the decades, there has been an unresolved debate on whether an examination is the true test of knowledge or not. While some are for the notion, others decry exams as pointless and not indicative of knowledge.

However, while exams may not be the perfect answer, it is currently one the most efficient answer. Therefore, students need to approach it judiciously and in their best state of mind.

Examination jitters is not abnormal feeling. It is a normal stress reaction often experienced due to anxiety, tension, or panic before or during an examination. It often causes one to have a hard time concentrating, overthink, blank out, sweat, or have a rapid heartbeat.

Almost every student develops this feeling during exams because of the fear of failing. However, when the fear and anxiety go unmanaged and over the board, it becomes a cause for concern. Adequate preparation and planning before examinations ensure that students are in the best disposition to take exams confidently and scale through successfully.

Most times, when students recall that the results gotten from their examinations will be used to determine their academic progress, the tension surges higher. The following are the reasons why students feel jitters before exams.

1. Inadequate preparation before an exam.

2. Inadequate rest before an exam.

3. Students’ inefficient subject content coverage.

4. Students’ poor self-esteem.

5. Fear of failure.

6. Strict school rules and regulations.

7. Poor past test and examination performances.

8. Timed examinations and the fear of not finishing the exam.

9. Exam jitters develop from fear of alienation from family and loved ones due to poor grades.

There are several practical steps students can adopt to overcome examination jitters, here are some proven effective steps:

1. Prepare Early: Procrastination is a killer habit that can distract students and make them think that they still have lots of time. Instead of burning the midnight candle to prepare for exams on the night before exams, it is better for students to start preparation on time.

2. Be Optimistic: Believing in yourself when you study and write exams will help you as a student to retain what you have read and also help you to write exams confidently.

3. Get a Good Rest: Make sure you are in the best frame of mind before you start writing exams. After revising all you have read, ensure to take a good rest, drink water and eat well to replenish the lost energy.

4: Read Smart: Find the best reading technique that works better for you and try it out. You can decide to listen to music or make use of mnemonics or flashcards while reading. Device the best technique and make sure you read all the necessary material in a more comprehensive way.

5. Attend classes: To avoid exam jitters, you need to be regular and attentive in classes. Following up on the class test and doing homework has a way of reducing exam anxiety.

6. Have a Positive Perspective towards Exams: When you are adequately prepared for exams, you will be able to dispel the anxiety that comes with exams.

The excessive fear triggered by exams is something parents and teachers should work together to curb, to avoid recording poor performances from the students and thereby reinforcing failure.

For most senior students who seek to advance to the tertiary level of education, the fear of excelling in the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), National Examinations Council (NECO), and Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) makes them anxious and scared of failing.

Therefore, it is overtly important that students regulate how they feel before and during exams so as to be able to comprehend examination questions and give in the required answers.

Writing examinations in the best state of mind guarantee better grades.

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