Get in head space for testing times

HABITS TO BOOST EXAM RESULTS

- JAMES MOORE

Water result: Having a drink really can help you think, according to scientists. In fact, a study from the universities of East London and Westminster found people who took water into their exams achieved scores on average of 5% higher than those who didn't. It's thought water may have an impact on brain function and also help reduce anxiety. Other research suggests staying well hydrated generally can improve memory, mood and decision making. Drink six to eight glass of water a day.

Cuppa care: Coffee may boost memory. In The Journal of Nutrition, participants with higher caffeine consumption scored better in mental function tests. But be careful, too much caffeine from coffee or tea can heighten anxiety and disrupt sleep, say experts.

Kip going: More sleep can improve how you do in exams, a study in the journal Cell Reports found. Researchers at Cambridge and at Fudan University in Shanghai identified having as little as 15 minutes extra shuteye per night as being linked to better performance in problem-solving. A study by Imperial College London found 7-9 hours was optimum for cognitive function.