The final exam is approaching, do you feel overwhelmed? Are you afraid of making mistakes during the exam, worried about not performing as expected? According to the book “Unlocking the Brain,” the author points out that our fear of mistakes actually stems from a misunderstanding of how the brain works. The fact is: every mistake is a great opportunity for the brain to grow.

Mistakes are the nutrients for brain growth.

When we encounter mistakes during the learning process, the brain generates more intense neural activity. Neuroscience research shows that our brains have amazing plasticity (neuroplasticity) — they can continuously change, grow, and adapt. Every time we make a mistake, the brain activates more neural circuits, striving to understand the mistake and build new connections.

It’s like strength training at the gym: only when muscles feel moderate stress and tiny tears can they become stronger. Similarly, when we encounter challenges and make mistakes during the learning process, the brain’s neural connections become tighter and stronger. Research has found that students who correct mistakes after making them on tests often have a deeper understanding and longer-lasting memory of the related knowledge compared to those who got it right the first time.

Therefore, during the preparation process before the final exam, don’t be afraid to make mistakes. On the contrary, view every mistake as an opportunity for brain growth — this is your brain engaging in important learning and reinforcement.

Changing the attitude towards mistakes

To make good use of the growth brought by mistakes, the first task is to change our attitude towards mistakes. Many times, we are accustomed to having a “fixed mindset,” believing that abilities are innate and difficult to change. This mindset makes us see mistakes as proof of inadequacy, leading to frustration and anxiety.

On the contrary, we should cultivate a “growth mindset,” believing that through effort and the right learning methods, our abilities can be continuously improved. Specifically, when you are reviewing before the exam:

View the parts you got wrong as a “diagnostic tool” to help you identify areas that need strengthening.
When correcting mistakes, don’t just memory the correct answer, but understand why you made the mistake.
When discussing with classmates, actively share where you went wrong, it’s not embarrassing, but an opportunity to help each other learn
Remember, even top scholars often make mistakes during research. What’s important is how to learn from mistakes and continuously improve. This attitude not only helps with exams but is also an important cornerstone for lifelong learning.

Exam review suggestions

After understanding the positive effects of mistakes, here are some practical exam review suggestions:

1. Create a mistake notebook:
   。Record the mistakes encountered in each practice
   。Analyse the reasons for mistakes and identify thinking blind spots
   。Regularly review and observe your progress.
2. Adjust your mindset appropriately:
   。View exams as an opportunity to review learning outcomes
   。Allow yourself to be imperfect and capable of continuous improvement
   。Maintain moderate pressure, which can help you focus better.
3. Make good use of review time:
   。Actively challenge more difficult questions
   。Simulate exam scenarios to cultivate mental resilience
   。Correct mistakes immediately after making them to reinforce correct understanding.

Facing the upcoming final exam, I hope you can view every mistake and challenge it with a new attitude. Remember, your brain is constantly growing and improving through these experiences. May you show your best self in the exam and enjoy the growth that learning brings in the process.

Psychological Counselling Service

Opening Hours 
Monday to Thursday: 9:00am – 1:00p.m.; 2:00p.m. – 5:45p.m. 
Friday: 9:00am – 1:00p.m.; 2:00p.m. – 5:30p.m.

Our Counselling Rooms
Address: Room 2009, 2nd Floor, Student Activity Centre (E31)
Tel. 8822 9000
Email: sao.counsellor@um.edu.mo

Welcome to visit our website for details:
https://scs.sao.um.edu.mo