How to sleep better before the day of exam?

I've actually ruined 2 GMAT attempts due to lack of sleep. I even practised some mock exams with less sleep, Since I thought I would be in a similar situation and didn't want to make excuses this time around, but the results were disappointing.

It is "normal" to get less sleep the night before the test. However getting too little or none may be a problem.

My thoughts would be to try to handle the stress and keep at it until you can force yourself to function normally. Another option is to schedule the test in the afternoon. (You should get some sleep one way or another) though I think you should test at the time you perform the best.

Do not recommend the pills or anything like that. A regular schedule is the best thing.


Posted from my mobile device.

One thing that we usually recommend to our students is to stop studying 2 days before the test. Spend the last 2 days relaxing and carrying on with stuff that you do regularly. Whether it is reading, watching TV or hanging out with friends, do whatever is needed to unwind.

Spend the week prior to the test just going over the notes you've made during your preparation. Refresh your fundamentals and the concepts that you usually tend to go wrong on. Don't take any tests during this week as this might unduly stress you out.

Do not picture "What if?" scenarios.
I know this is easier said than done - but imagining what may go wrong on the test is never a good idea. Don't add any unnecessary pressure on yourself!

Last, but not the least - take a deep breath and tell yourself that the GMAT is just an aptitude test. It is not the beginning and end of your world. Life will go on irrespective of the outcome of the test! (though it may feel like the biggest thing in the world now, 5 years from now, you won't even remember what this felt like! Trust me! )

I don't think I have shared any short-cuts to get good sleep - but just some changes in the way you approach the test will definitely help you handle it better. ALl the best!

Gowri N Kishore
Verbal Specialist
CrackVerbal