How to Survive Exam Season Like a Pro (or at Least a Semi-Sane Human)

Exam season. The phrase alone is enough to make your eye twitch and your caffeine intake spike. Whether you’re buried in books, glued to your laptop, or staring blankly at your notes wondering if “osmosis learning” is real—this one’s for you.

At Student Houses Segovia, we know exams can feel like a whirlwind of stress, snack wrappers, and emotional rollercoasters. So, we’ve pulled together our best advice to help you stay productive, healthy, and yes, slightly less insane.

1. Make a Plan (Then Actually Use It)

Color-coded schedules. To-do lists. Sticky notes everywhere. Whatever your method, a good plan can make exam season feel a lot less chaotic.

• Break down your study material into bite-sized tasks
  
• Assign topics to specific days
  
• Don’t forget to include breaks and sleep (yes, really)
  

Pro Tip: Don’t just make the plan. Follow it. (Looking at you, professional procrastinators.)

2. Caffeine Is Not a Food Group

We get it—coffee is life. But if your bloodstream is 80% espresso by day 3 of studying, it might be time to hydrate.

• Drink water (sparkling counts)
  
• Eat actual meals (instant noodles are not a food group either)
  
• Avoid the crash-and-burn cycle with sugar-loaded energy drinks
  

Snack smart: Think bananas, nuts, or dark chocolate. Your brain will thank you.

3. Find Your Spot

Some study better in absolute silence, others thrive with background noise. Whatever your style:

• Rotate between cozy corners of your flat, your desk, and maybe a local café
  
• Avoid studying in bed unless you want “nap” to become your default mode
  
• Make your space inspiring (but not distracting)
  

4. Use the Pomodoro Technique (Or Fake It)

25 minutes on, 5 minutes off. It sounds simple because it is. This method helps avoid burnout and keeps your brain fresh.

Warning: That 5-minute break easily becomes a 2-hour TikTok marathon if you’re not careful.

5. Don’t Go Full Hermit

Yes, you need to focus. But isolating yourself entirely is a fast track to burnout.

• Schedule study sessions with friends
  
• Take a walk with your flatmate
  
• Watch one episode of something dumb and light (avoid anything with emotional trauma, e.g., finales)
  

6. Move Your Body (Even a Little)

No, we’re not telling you to run a marathon. But:

• A 10-minute stretch session does wonders
  
• Walk around the block
  
• Do some squats while waiting for your tea to steep
  

Get your blood flowing. Your brain will work better, promise.

7. Sleep is Non-Negotiable

We know pulling an all-nighter feels productive. But science says otherwise.

• Aim for at least 7 hours of sleep
  
• Power naps (20-30 minutes) can boost memory and focus
  
• Set alarms if you’re a chronic oversleeper
  

8. Talk About It

Feeling overwhelmed? That’s normal.

• Talk to someone (your flatmate, a friend, your houseplant… anyone)
  
• Use uni resources if needed
  
• Vent, laugh, cry, repeat
  

9. Reward Yourself (Yes, You Deserve It)

Finished a module? Have a pastry. Survived a study group? Take a guilt-free nap.

• Celebrate small wins
  
• Plan something fun for after exams
  
• Treat yourself like a human, not a robot
  

10. Remember: It’s Just a Season

Exams are tough, but they’re temporary. You’re capable, you’re strong, and you’re definitely not alone.

So breathe. Focus. Power through. Then come out the other side ready to enjoy tapas, sunshine, and everything Segovia has to offer.

👉 Need a calm, supportive space to study?

Our student apartments are designed for comfort, rest, and serious cramming sessions. Explore available rooms now at studenthouses.es.