Cut distractions, doctors tells students

Students today are surrounded by numerous distractions like television, internet and mobile phones which reduce their concentration and thus affect their studies.

This was highlighted by renowned psychiatrist and author Dr Hansal Bhachech during a seminar for class XII (commerce) students, titled 'Learn to Manage Exam Stress with a smile' in the city on Sunday. Bhachech spoke at length on various types of distractions and how students should prepare for exams with concentration and relaxation techniques.

"We live in such a society where marks, specialisation, college, etc matter and we have to accept it. Mobiles, computer/internet, TV and songs, friends and hangouts are students' time stealers," he said. Speaking on principles of better memory, he said, "Associating things always helps in remembering better. Also, the best way to improve the confidence on memory is autosuggestion."

Sharing a few memory tips, Bhachech said, "Following some practices like repeated study to improve long term memory, spaced learning, planned revision, reintegration and using acronyms helps in remembering better." He urged students to focus on long-term memory with a planned revision methodology, and not rely on short-term memory by studying only during a few days ahead of exams.

He said that it was advisable to loosen up before one begins studies, just like batsmen do before entering the ground. "Relaxation exercises like deep breathing, meditation, positive imagination, etc are also important for a student for effective studies," Bhachech said.

He had a word of caution for students. "Avoid having any kind of stimulants before exams. Also, do not work at the last moment and avoid tense conversations just before exams. In the exam hall, organise your thoughts before beginning to answer the questions," he advised.