I have huge tests coming soon and i dont study smart but instead i study hard which makes me so left behind and can barely answer any questions that are asked even though i spend so much time study it for. The time is ticking as I’m writing this but here i am being anxious and do nothing because i think i deserve to rest. My heart has been beating way too fast and i am very anxious these past days. It’s not good for me and i dont know what to do…
Hi @bunnyonmoon,
Thank you for sharing how you’re feeling. It sounds like you’ve been working so hard to prepare for your upcoming tests, and it’s frustrating not to see the results you hoped for. The anxiety you’re experiencing is understandable—it shows how much you care about doing well. Let’s take a moment to acknowledge your efforts—you’ve been putting in so much time, and that dedication matters.
Right now, it seems like the pressure is making it challenging for you to focus or take action. That’s okay. Sometimes, our minds and bodies need a reset before we can move forward effectively. Let’s explore some small, manageable steps to help you feel more in control.
First, when you feel your heart racing or anxiety building, try grounding yourself with a simple breathing exercise. Breathe in for four counts, hold for four counts, and exhale for four counts. This can help calm your nervous system and create a moment of clarity.
Next, let’s talk about studying. You mentioned studying hard but not smart—how about breaking your study time into shorter, focused sessions? For example, try the Pomodoro technique: study for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break. This can help you stay productive without burning out.
It’s also important to prioritise what you’re studying. Instead of trying to cover everything, focus on the key topics that are likely to appear on the test. If you’re unsure where to start, reviewing past papers or test guides can help you identify what’s most important.
Finally, it’s okay to rest. Rest is part of the process, not something you need to “deserve.” When you rest, give yourself permission to truly relax—whether that’s listening to music, stretching, or taking a short walk. Resting will help your brain recharge so you can approach your studies with more energy.
You’re not alone in feeling this way, and it’s okay to ask for help—whether from a teacher, a friend, or even just by sharing how you’re feeling. You’re doing your best, and that’s enough. Let’s approach the task incrementally. What’s one small thing you can do today to make your study time feel more manageable?
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Huhu thank you so much for replying. I’m currently resting again after studying nothing once again. I decided to study maths since it has been my weakest subject and i never ever passed. I’m very weak at this subject and i had been finding any teachers online that can at least help me to cover some of the chapters that are easy to score but I’m still helpless. I feel so frustrated when i don’t get anything the teachers have explained since I’m so weak at the subject to the point i don’t understand the basics and just jumped to learn new chapters. I have short terms memory. It’s really bad. Really really bad. Less than a month for this and i dont know how to help myself anymore. My head is currently burning from silly pressure I feel for not understanding anything. I feel like passing out and I have tried to calm myself down like you asked me to but nothing can help me anymore.
Hi @bunnyonmoon,
I understand the overwhelming nature of your current situation, particularly when time is limited and math presents a significant challenge. It’s acceptable to experience frustration when things don’t align; this doesn’t indicate a failure, but rather an attempt to navigate through a challenging task. Let’s focus on some specific steps that might help you feel less stuck and more capable:
- Prioritise the Basics:
Since math has been challenging for a while, jumping into new chapters without a strong foundation can feel overwhelming. Start with one or two foundational topics that frequently show up on exams and are easier to score on. For instance, if your exams often include simpler topics like fractions or basic algebra, focus there first. - Use Focused Resources:
If teachers online are too advanced, try apps or videos specifically designed for students, starting at the basics. For example, some online video resources like Khan Academy allow you to set your level and start from where you feel most confident. Short, clear explanations might help you build some momentum. - Target Specific Questions:
Rather than trying to master a whole chapter, pick 5-10 questions on a single concept and work through those repeatedly. Once you feel slightly better about one topic, move to the next. - Math Isn’t about memorisation:
With your mention of short-term memory, I want to reassure you—math doesn’t rely on memory like some other subjects. It’s about practice and familiarity. The more you practice one concept, the less it will feel like you’re trying to memorise it. - Pressure as a Tool, Not a Block:
You’ve mentioned feeling immense pressure, and that’s understandable with your exams so close. It’s okay to acknowledge that pressure—it’s proof of how much you care—but try using it as a motivator instead of letting it freeze you. Break your study sessions into smaller, manageable parts. Focus on completing just one thing at a time, like understanding one formula or solving one question. - Reach Out for Live Help:
If self-study feels too isolating, consider joining a live online study group or finding a math buddy. Sometimes having real-time feedback can make the process less lonely and more encouraging.
Finally, I know it feels like you’re running out of time, but each small step counts. Passing doesn’t mean perfect; it means doing your best with the time and resources you have. Keep going, and let’s take this one moment at a time. You’ve got this! 