What should candidates focus on when practicing positive self-talk before an exam?

Focusing on affirming capabilities and strengths is crucial when practicing positive self-talk before an exam. This approach helps to build confidence and reinforce a candidate's belief in their ability to succeed. By reminding themselves of their achievements, skills, and knowledge, candidates create a positive mindset that can enhance performance during the exam. Positive self-talk serves to mitigate anxiety and self-doubt, allowing candidates to approach the exam with a more optimistic and focused attitude.

While negative past experiences, potential failures, and comparisons to others may lead to feelings of doubt and insecurity, positive affirmations can counter these negative influences by emphasizing what the individual can do, rather than fixating on what could go wrong or how they measure up against others. This constructive self-dialogue is integral in fostering resilience and a proactive mindset, which are essential components of effective exam preparation.