How to manage last-minute deadlines and exam stress?

Exam stress has become one of the biggest concerns for students, especially as deadlines approach and the pressure to perform rises. It’s normal to feel anxious before a big test, but it doesn’t have to take over. Students across all age groups can learn to manage this stress with the right support and a clear plan. By focusing on small steps and using smart strategies, they can turn nervous energy into confidence. When students learn how to stay calm, stay organised, and take care of their well-being, exams become less scary and more manageable. Instead of just surviving exam season, they can come through it stronger, more focused, and proud of what they’ve achieved. Some of the best schools in Nelloresuch as Podar International School understand this and help students in meaningful ways. They create a calm, focused learning space where teachers guide students not only through subjects but also through exam preparation. These schools run sessions on how to plan revision, manage time, and stay positive. Regular mock exams, group study sessions, and quiet reflection periods are part of their routine. By building good habits early, these schools make sure students feel ready and confident when exam day arrives.

When exams draw near, pressure tends to build. Students often feel they must do everything at once, but handling stress takes more than effort—it requires a clear, steady approach. Planning is key. A simple daily routine with small, achievable goals helps avoid panic. Writing down a list of topics to revise and ticking them off one by one can give a sense of progress. Short bursts of study, followed by quick breaks, keep the mind sharp. Getting enough sleep and eating well also support focus and energy.

Another helpful step is to revise a little each day instead of leaving everything to the last minute. Regular review helps information sink in and makes recall easier during exams. Using flashcards, practice papers, or explaining topics out loud can also improve understanding. Changing study spots now and then can refresh focus. Creating a calm, tidy workspace can reduce distractions and boost motivation. Students can also try teaching a concept to someone else, as this often reveals how well they understand the material.

Setting clear priorities helps avoid feeling overwhelmed. Students can mark topics as high, medium, or low priority based on their difficulty or importance. This lets them spend time where it matters most. Keeping water nearby, stretching during breaks, and adding a bit of music (if it helps focus) are small actions that can improve the study atmosphere.

It’s also useful to break big tasks into smaller parts. Instead of saying “study science,” a student might write “revise photosynthesis” or “solve five chemistry questions.” These bite-sized goals are easier to handle and make progress feel real.

Students should be kind to themselves and speak up if they need help. Talking to a teacher, friend, or parent can lift a weight off their shoulders. Staying active, even with a short walk, can help clear the mind. Light exercise such as stretching or cycling can reduce stress and boost mood. Mindfulness or simple breathing exercises can bring calm in anxious moments.

Students should remind themselves that exams are just one part of their journey. Not everything needs to be perfect—effort counts more than flawless answers. With a good plan and a calm attitude, they can take control of exam time. Confidence grows with each step forward, and that belief can make a big difference when it matters most.

Parents also play an important role in helping children manage exam stress and deadlines. Their encouragement, patience, and emotional support can ease much of the pressure students face. A calm home environment, free of unnecessary distractions and pressure, allows children to focus better on their studies. Simple gestures such as helping to create a study timetable, preparing healthy meals, or checking in with a kind word can boost a student’s mood and motivation. Open conversations where students feel safe to express their worries can strengthen trust and ease anxiety. Even offering to quiz their child using flashcards or giving them space to unwind after study hours can make a big difference. With steady guidance and a positive approach, parents help build confidence and create the emotional safety students need to succeed.

At Podar International School in Nellore, teachers and staff understand that exams are a natural part of every student’s journey. Rather than treating them as high-pressure events, the school focuses on creating a calm, encouraging atmosphere where preparation feels steady and manageable. Teachers break down subjects into smaller topics and help students build revision schedules that suit their pace. Staff members remain approachable, always ready to listen or offer help when a student feels stuck or anxious.

They have remedial classes that give students extra time and support to strengthen areas where they may be struggling. These sessions are tailored to meet individual learning needs and allow students to revisit key concepts at a comfortable pace. Teachers work closely with each student, offering clear explanations and simple techniques to build confidence and understanding. The goal is not just to catch up, but to feel ready and positive about moving forward with the rest of the class. This extra help makes sure no student is left behind, especially during exam season when pressure can feel especially heavy. To know more about their school’s admission in Nellore, interested parents and guardians can visit the school’s website, contact the admissions office directly at

Email Address : admissions@podar.org 

Telephone No : 9513246685