Which psychological strategy can be particularly effective for managing stress prior to an exam?

Mindfulness and visualization techniques serve as effective psychological strategies for managing stress prior to an exam because they focus on enhancing mental clarity and emotional regulation. Mindfulness encourages individuals to stay present, reduce anxiety, and cultivate a sense of calm through practices such as deep breathing and meditation. This helps lower stress levels and improves focus.

Visualization techniques, on the other hand, involve mentally rehearsing a successful performance, which can foster confidence and reduce feelings of apprehension. By picturing oneself successfully navigating the exam, students can create a positive mindset and reinforce their belief in their abilities. Together, these methods can significantly alleviate pre-exam stress and improve overall performance.