Tip of the week: Take a break to help your stamina

Studying for exams can be tough. Long hours, lots of notes and pressure to do well can make anyone feel stressed. But taking short breaks while you study can help you do better.

Stay focused and remember more

Your brain gets tired after about an hour of hard thinking. Taking short breaks helps you rest and makes it easier to remember what you studied.

Feel less stressed

Studying non-stop can make you feel anxious, tired or even sick. Taking a few minutes to relax, stretch or get some fresh air can help you feel calm and ready to keep going.

Get more done

It might sound strange, but stepping away from your books can help you study faster. Some students use the Pomodoro method, study for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break to stay motivated and focused.

Good ways to take a break

• Get active: Take the dog for a walk or go for a swim.
• Rest your eyes: Avoid screens for a bit.
• Breathe: Try deep breathing or a short meditation.
• Eat something healthy: A snack like fruit, nuts or yogurt can boost your energy and help you concentrate.
• Catch up with friends or family: A short chat can lift your mood and give your brain a reset.

The bottom line

Taking breaks isn’t wasting time, it’s a smart way to study. You’ll feel better, remember more and be ready to do your best on exam day.