The night before an exam can bring on a wave of anxiety and pressure, especially if you’re feeling underprepared. But cramming or panicking isn’t the answer. The best way to boost your confidence and performance is to follow a realistic and effective checklist that prioritises both mental focus and physical wellbeing.
What to Do the Night Before Your Exam: A Realistic Checklist
Here’s a practical guide on what to do the night before your exam.
1. Review Key Concepts—Don’t Cram
It’s tempting to try and squeeze in last-minute studying, but cramming rarely works. Instead, review summaries, key concepts, formulas, or mind maps. Focus on what you already know rather than starting new material. Go over your notes one last time—briefly and calmly. If you’ve prepared throughout the term, your goal now is to reinforce memory, not overload your brain.
2. Test Yourself Lightly
Instead of reading passively, do a short self-test. Use flashcards, answer a few past paper questions, or quiz yourself out loud. Testing helps retain information better than simply reading. Keep this light and short—no more than 30 minutes to an hour.
3. Organise Everything You Need
Pack your bag with all exam essentials the night before. This includes:
- Your student ID or exam admission letter
- Pens, pencils, erasers, calculators (if allowed)
- A bottle of water
- Tissues or snacks (if permitted)
- Directions to the exam venue and a backup route if using transport
Having these ready reduces stress in the morning and ensures you don’t forget anything.
4. Set Multiple Alarms
It’s surprisingly common for students to oversleep on exam day. Set at least two alarms—one as your main wake-up and another as a backup. If you’re using your phone, make sure it’s fully charged and not set to silent. You can also ask a trusted person to check on you in the morning.
5. Plan Your Morning Routine
Know what time you need to wake up, eat, get dressed, and leave. Lay out your clothes and plan a quick but nutritious breakfast (like eggs, oats, or fruit with yoghurt). Avoid sugary or greasy food that could make you feel sluggish. Having a morning plan calms your nerves and saves time.
Read more: How to Create an Effective Exam Study Timetable That You’ll Actually Follow
6. Stay Off Social Media
Scrolling through social media can cause anxiety—especially if friends are posting about how much they’ve studied. Avoid comparing your preparation to others. Give yourself a social media break for the evening to keep a clear and focused mind.
7. Do a Relaxing Activity
After a short revision session, wind down with something calming. Watch a feel-good TV show, read a book, or take a walk. Avoid anything that overstimulates your brain, such as intense video games or news.
8. Hydrate and Eat Well
Drink plenty of water throughout the evening. Dehydration can affect concentration and memory. Also, have a balanced dinner that includes complex carbohydrates, protein, and vegetables. Avoid energy drinks, excessive caffeine, and junk food.
9. Get a Full Night’s Sleep
This might be the most important item on your checklist. Aim for 7–9 hours of sleep. Sleep helps memory consolidation and keeps you alert. Turn off screens an hour before bed and try a relaxing bedtime routine—such as light stretching, meditation, or listening to calming music. If you’re feeling nervous, remind yourself that rest is more effective than cramming.
10. Visualise Success
Before sleeping, take five minutes to visualise yourself confidently walking into the exam room, answering questions calmly, and finishing on time. Positive visualisation can reduce anxiety and boost confidence.
Also check: How to Use the APS Calculator for 2026 Applications
The night before your exam is not the time for self-criticism. Acknowledge your efforts and remind yourself that one exam does not define your entire academic journey. Do your best, get a good night’s rest, and walk into your exam with a calm and focused mind.
