Bad habits to avoid during examinations

AS you approach your final examinations, your success will not only be determined by how much you have studied  -  but also by your behaviour and habits during the exam period. Sometimes, it's the small things that cost learners the most. Let me share with you some bad habits you must avoid during this crucial time:

Coming unprepared (no pen, pencil, ruler, etc.)
One of the most careless mistakes is arriving in the exam room without the basic tools: pen, pencil, ruler, rubber or calculator. This wastes precious time as you start borrowing. Worse, it creates panic and disorganises your focus.

Solution: Pack your stationery the night before. Have extra pens just in case.

Borrowing in the exam room
Asking for a ruler, rubber or calculator during the exam distracts you and other candidates. It's also seen as a form of misconduct in strict settings. Some may even assume you are trying to cheat.

Solution: Be responsible. Have everything you need before walking into the room.

Sleeping during the exam

Yes, some students sleep during the exam  -  not because they finished, but due to fatigue or lack of preparation. This is a dangerous habit. You lose valuable time and show a lack of seriousness.

Solution: Get enough rest the night before and eat a healthy breakfast. Stay alert and focused.

Starting without reading instructions
Rushing to answer questions without reading the instructions properly is a common but costly mistake. You may answer the wrong number of questions or miss a key requirement.

Solution: Use the first few minutes to carefully read through the instructions and understand what's expected.

Talking or whispering in the exam room
Even whispering to ask for a pen can lead to disqualification. Exams are strict environments  -  any communication is suspicious.

Solution: Stay silent. If there's a serious issue, raise your hand and speak to the invigilator.

Poor time management
Spending too long on one question and rushing the rest can lead to failure. Some students waste time daydreaming or overthinking one section.

Solution: Practice time management in your revision. Divide your exam time according to the marks allocated.

Cheating or bringing unauthorized material

Carrying notes or trying to copy from others can lead to expulsion, loss of results and shame. Avoid shortcuts  -  there's no honour in stolen success.

Not reviewing your work
Finishing early and handing in your paper without revising is a missed opportunity. Simple errors can cost you marks.

Solution: Use any remaining time to check your answers, correct spelling, and ensure clarity.

Exams are a test of both knowledge and discipline. Success comes from proper preparation, focus and good habits. Avoid carelessness. Stay alert. Be serious. And above all, respect the exam room.

All the best in your exams. Prepare well. Stay calm!