Are you ready for your GCSE exams? The night before is more important than you might think. It’s your chance to set yourself up for success. But if you leave things to the last minute or forget something, it could throw you off your game.
Let’s take a look at what you need to do the day before the exam, and what to avoid.
Your GCSE Exam Night Checklist
Here’s a quick checklist for you.
☑️ Reviewed key topics for tomorrow’s exam.
☑️ Packed my pencil case with all the essentials.
☑️ Checked the rules for the subject (e.g. calculator).
☑️ Double-check the exam details, including the time and location.
☑️ Set my alarms.
1. Go Over Key Topics (But Don’t Cram)
Dedicate 20–30 minutes to reviewing your revision notes and flashcards. Focus on the challenging topics. Remember, it’s not wise to try learning everything overnight; review the key points and let your mind relax.
Here’s a general guide:
- For Maths, practise a few equations or formulas like Pythagoras’ theorem or quadratic equations.
- For Science, focus on key diagrams or periodic tables.
- For English Literature, review a few important quotes and themes.
2. Pack Your Bag with Exam Essentials
Make sure everything you need is ready to go.
- For Maths and Science: A scientific calculator, geometry set, and ruler. Keep all your equipment exam board approved.
- For English: A highlighter for texts (if allowed).
- For all exams: Pens, pencils, erasers, and your exam timetable.
- A water bottle (label removed if required).
3. Check the Rules for Your Exam
Learn the details so you don’t get surprised. Every GCSE subject has its own rules. Double-check what’s allowed and what isn’t:
- Can you use your calculator?
- Are there any specific materials you need to bring, like an annotated text for English?
- What time and room is your exam?
4. Set Alarms
Set at least two alarms; one on your phone and another on a clock or your watch. Make sure they’re far enough away so you have to get out of bed to turn them off.
Remember, it’s best to arrive early at your exam centre. You’ll need time to find your seat and set up your equipment.
5. Eat a Proper Dinner
Your brain needs fuel! Eat something balanced, like chicken or fish with rice or pasta and veg. Avoid junk food or anything too heavy. Heavy dinner could mess with your sleep.
6. Stay Hydrated
Drink water throughout the day, but don’t overdo it before bed. You don’t want to wake up in the middle of the night!
7. Relax Before Bed
Take 30 minutes to unwind. Listen to music, read a book, or do some deep breathing. Avoid scrolling on your phone or watching TV. Screens can mess with your sleep.
8. Get to Bed on Time
Aim for 8 hours of sleep. Set a bedtime that gives you enough rest and stick to it. A fresh mind is much better than a tired one.
9. Picture Success Before You Sleep
Close your eyes and imagine yourself sitting in the exam, calmly answering questions. Visualising success can boost your confidence and reduce anxiety.
10. Contact Your Tutor or Education Supporter
If you feel stressed or struggle with certain topics, contact a tutor.
At Ostado, our GCSE tutors can guide you with last-minute revision, based on your weaknesses. Plus, your education supporter can help you overcome exam stress.
What Not to Do the Night Before
GCSEs are stressful. It is only natural to get scared and do harmful things. However, it’s best to:
Avoid Cramming
Reviewing your notes, flashcards and mindmaps is enough. It’s not helpful to try learning new challenging topics from scratch.
Your brain won’t absorb much, and it’ll just make you more stressed. At this point, you need to relax so you’ll perform better at tomorrow’s exam.
Don’t Compare with Friends
Many students compare their revision time or strategies before exams. Group studies are helpful, but not at this point.
You only need to unwind before your exam. Avoid last-minute group chats that might make you doubt yourself.
Don’t Stay Up Late
There’s a strong connection between sleep and the stress hormone cortisol. When we don’t get enough sleep, cortisol levels remain high, leading to more stress and a higher chance of forgetting what you already know. So, get a good night’s sleep. Here are some helpful tips:
- Avoid caffeine after 4 pm.
- If you generally have trouble falling asleep, aim for a 30-45 minute walk during the day.
- Get plenty of sunlight during the day.
- Avoid heavy exercises before bed, you don’t need to raise your heart rate.
The Morning of Your Exam
Wake up early, eat a good breakfast, and head to the exam hall with plenty of time to spare. Double-check you have everything before leaving the house.
By following this routine, you’ll feel calm, confident, and ready to show what you can do.