Many students struggle with writing under exam pressure. Faced with a blank page, they freeze, unsure how to start or what to say. This combination of writer’s block and exam anxiety is common, but with the right support, students can learn to manage it and write with confidence.
Preparation is Key
The best way to overcome writing anxiety starts before the exam. Students should feel comfortable with the content and know how to approach each section. Study, timed tasks and practice papers help build confidence, familiarity, and a sense of control, making the real exam feel less intimidating.
Break the Pressure
If students feel stuck, starting with the easiest question can help. Putting something, anything, on the page breaks the mental barrier and creates momentum for the rest of the paper. Neuroscientists at Yale University have shown that when people take small actions, like writing even one sentence, the brain releases dopamine, a neurotransmitter that boosts motivation and focus. This means starting with an easy question literally jump-starts your brain into problem-solving mode.
Focus on Process, Not Perfection
Students often worry about producing the “perfect” answer, but that mindset increases stress. Tutors should remind them that it’s better to get ideas down and refine later. Progress matters more than perfection; remember, teachers can mark something, not nothing.
Creating a Supportive Environment
Tutors play a key role in building confidence. Encouraging a calm, non-judgmental space allows students to experiment and make mistakes without fear.
Teach Planning Techniques
Simple strategies like mind mapping or quick outlines can help students organise their thoughts before writing. With practice, these skills become second nature and improve clarity under pressure.
Simulate Exam Conditions
Finally, short, timed writing exercises during tutoring sessions help students practice thinking clearly and managing nerves in real exam scenarios. Research from the University of Chicago found that students who practiced under simulated test conditions performed significantly better because familiarity reduced stress responses in the brain.
By combining preparation, structure, and emotional support, tutors can help students overcome writer’s block, reduce anxiety, and perform at their best when it matters most.
Vicki