Examinations are a normal part of a student’s academic journey. They encourage learning, discipline and goal-setting. However, for some students, exam preparation can become a source of intense fear and pressure.
A student may begin thinking:
“What if I fail?”
“What will my parents say?”
“Everyone is studying better than me.”
“My future will be ruined if I don’t get good marks.”
When these thoughts become repetitive, the student may find it difficult to concentrate, sleep peacefully or even begin studying.
A simple example
Consider Rohan, a 15-year-old student preparing for his 10th-class examinations.
Rohan’s parents want him to score very high marks. Every evening they ask:
“How many marks are you expecting?”
“Did you finish everything?”
“Your friend’s preparation is much better. Why aren’t you studying like him?”
Initially, Rohan tries to study harder. But gradually he becomes afraid of the examination.
He sits with his books but keeps thinking:
“I have so much to study.”
“I won’t remember anything.”
“What if I fail?”
He reads the same page several times but cannot concentrate. At night, he struggles to sleep. The next morning he feels tired and irritated.
His parents may think:
“He is not serious about his studies.”
But Rohan’s problem is not necessarily a lack of interest. He may be overwhelmed by anxiety and pressure.
What can change the situation?
Instead of telling Rohan:
“You must get 90% or above.”
his parents could say:
“Let’s not worry about the final marks right now. Tell us which subjects or topics are difficult for you. We will help you make a plan.”
Rohan can then divide his preparation into smaller goals.
For example:
Today:
- Mathematics – 2 topics
- Science – 1 chapter
- 30 minutes revision
- 10-minute breaks between study sessions
At the end of the day, instead of asking only about marks, his parents can ask:
“What did you learn today?”
This changes the focus from fear of the result to confidence in the process.
The important lesson
Rohan does not need less ambition. He needs less fear and more support.
Healthy academic motivation sounds like:
“I will prepare well and give my best.”
Unhealthy pressure sounds like:
“If I don’t get high marks, I am a failure.”
Parents and teachers can help students understand the difference.
What parents should remember
A child who is struggling with exam pressure does not always need more pressure.
Sometimes they need:
- Someone who listens
- A realistic study plan
- Encouragement instead of comparison
- Proper sleep and breaks
- Help with difficult subjects
- Reassurance that their worth is not determined by marks
One sentence that every student should hear
“Your marks matter, but you matter more than your marks.”
Exams are important, but they are only one part of a student’s journey. Helping children develop confidence, emotional resilience and healthy study habits can benefit them far beyond one examination.
Prepare sincerely. Stay calm. Ask for help. Believe in your ability to improve.
Chandrakala Vadlamudi
Counselling Psychologist | VyANA – Energy of Well-Being
www.vyana-energy.co.in