Surviving Exam Season

Here we are – right in the thick of it. Exam season is well underway, and if you’re anything like us, it feels like the summer holidays are both so close and so far at the same time.

We know this can be a stressful few weeks. But honestly? You’ve already come so far. Now it’s just about finding those little ways to make it to the finish line with your sanity (and your grades!) intact. Here are a few of our favourite tried-and-tested tips to help you power through.

Prepare Your Study Space

When it’s time to knuckle down, your environment can make all the difference. Trust us: trying to revise surrounded by laundry piles, snack wrappers, and yesterday’s coffee cups is a losing battle.

Whether you’re setting up in your room at Bailrigg or heading to the peaceful study room, take a few minutes to create a calm space. Clear your desk, grab some water, maybe even do storm breathing exercises if that’s your vibe. The calmer your surroundings, the calmer your brain will feel – and that’s half the battle.

Do Exam Past Papers

Nothing beats real exam practice. Working through past papers isn’t just about memorising facts – it’s about getting comfortable with the way questions are asked, spotting patterns, and sharpening up your timing.

We recommend setting a timer, going old-school with pen and paper, and seeing how you get on. It’s a little intense at first, but it’s one of the best confidence boosts you can give yourself before the real thing.

Study With Your Friends

Let’s be honest, revision isn’t exactly thrilling. But it doesn’t have to be a lonely slog either. Some of the best revision sessions are spontaneous group study marathons with your flatmates – quizzing each other, explaining tricky topics out loud, and sharing tips.

Plus, it’s way more fun having someone to laugh with when you both forget the same formula for the fifth time. Trust us, a little company goes a long way during exam season.

Get Some Sleep

When deadlines are looming, pulling an all-nighter feels like the “dedicated” thing to do. But honestly? Sleep is your secret weapon.

Those 3am cramming sessions might feel productive at the time, but they won’t help you perform at your best. Stick to 7–9 hours a night, and plan your revision during the day while your brain is properly awake. Future you sitting in that exam hall will thank you.

Give Social Media a Break

You know the drill, one quick scroll on Instagram... suddenly it's two hours later and you know everything about a random influencer’s morning routine.

During exam season, social media is a massive (and very sneaky) time-thief. Try putting your phone on ‘Do Not Disturb’ while you’re studying, or even deleting a few apps for a few weeks if you’re feeling brave. The group chats, memes and TikToks will all still be there when you’re finished – promise.

Rest

Yes, you need to work hard. But you also need to breathe. No one can revise for 12 hours a day without losing their mind.

We always recommend planning little treats into your day – whether that’s a coffee run into town, a quick lap around the green spaces near Bailrigg, or even just putting on your favourite playlist and having a dance break.
Small moments of joy make a big difference. And they remind you that there is life beyond revision.

You’re Nearly There

If you’re feeling tired, stressed, and a bit over it all – you’re not alone. Everyone at Bailrigg Student Living is right there with you.

Keep going. Take it one day at a time. Lean on your friends. Be proud of how far you’ve come already. And remember that the summer, the celebrations, and the lie-ins are just around the corner.