STAYING MOTIVATED DURING EXAM PERIODS

By Good School Learning Hub

Exam periods are often when motivation drops the fastest. Across primary school, secondary school, JC, and Polytechnic, I’ve seen many students start with determination, only to feel drained, distracted, or discouraged as exams draw closer. This is not a sign of poor attitude—it is a common response to sustained pressure and long preparation periods.

What tutors frequently observe is that motivation fades when effort feels endless and results feel uncertain. Students revise for weeks, yet still worry whether it is “enough.” Younger students may feel tired and bored, while older students may feel anxious and overwhelmed by the stakes. When motivation is expected to stay high all the time, students often feel frustrated with themselves when it doesn’t.

From experience, the key to staying motivated is shifting expectations. Motivation during exam periods is rarely constant. Students cope better when they accept that low-energy days are normal and plan for them. Having clear, short-term goals—such as completing a set of questions or reviewing one topic—helps create a sense of progress even when overall exams feel far away. Small achievements matter more than bursts of enthusiasm.

Routine also plays a powerful role. Students who wait to feel motivated before studying tend to struggle more during exam periods. Those who follow consistent routines, even with shorter or lighter sessions, maintain momentum more effectively. Parents can support this by encouraging steady effort, protecting rest time, and avoiding last-minute pressure that turns preparation into fear.

Some students try to push through low motivation by extending study hours, while others disengage to cope with exhaustion. Both patterns are understandable, but neither is sustainable. What works better is balance—mixing focused study with planned breaks, adjusting workload when fatigue sets in, and recognising effort rather than just outcomes.

Staying motivated during exam periods is not about forcing positivity or intensity. It is about maintaining direction even when motivation dips. When students learn to rely on routines, manageable goals, and supportive guidance, they stay engaged through the exam period—and finish it with resilience rather than burnout.