Managing exam stress
Practical ways to manage nerves and stress before and during exams.
For: Learners and parents · Written by the Entle Squared team. General study advice, not official CAPS guidance — check your school's exam scope.
Some nerves are normal
Feeling nervous shows you care. Preparation reduces uncertainty, which reduces stress.
Prepare early
Last-minute cramming increases stress. A timetable spread over a few weeks makes revision feel manageable.
Sleep and move
Sleep helps memory. A short walk or exercise can clear your head between study sessions.
In the exam room
Read the whole paper first, start with a question you feel confident about, and breathe slowly if you feel panic rising.
Ask for help
If stress feels overwhelming, talk to a parent, teacher or school counsellor. In South Africa, SADAG offers free support for young people.