Fasting and Exams: Expert Tips for Students
Fasting and Exam Preparation – Expert Tips for Iftar and Suhoor for Students
The second semester exams for the academic year 2024-2025 are about to begin, posing a challenge for many students as they have to manage Ramadan fasting alongside exam preparation. Students need to carefully plan their schedules, rest, and routines to perform their best.
Time Management and Rest
Many students plan their days in a way that allows them to study effectively even while fasting. A 12th-grade student mentioned that her exams are scheduled for the afternoon, giving her time in the morning for a final review of the material. "I can sleep the night before the exam, and don't have to get up early on the day of the exam. This gives me a chance to go over the study material before the test," she explained. However, she acknowledged that the first exam, physics, would be particularly difficult due to the high level of concentration it demands.
Setting up a study routine isn't always easy, especially during Ramadan when late-night gatherings and family events tempt students to stay up late. "I know I have to regulate my sleep schedule and go to bed earlier. Fatigue makes concentration difficult, so I am now setting this new routine," said the student.
Parental Help and Support
A mother of a seventh-grade student shared how she helps her child balance Ramadan and exams. “On regular days, my son goes to bed early, but during Ramadan, he tends to stay up late. As exams approach, I will ensure he follows a schedule that allows him to fully focus," she said.
The mother explained that her child wakes up for the pre-dawn meal, suhoor, and then goes back to sleep to be well-rested by morning. Studying is planned after iftar when the student's energy and concentration are at their peak.
Exam Period and Study Strategies
Schools have already sent out the exam schedules and are urging students to start preparing for the exams. In the first cycle (3rd and 4th grades), students take exams in all subjects from March 10 to March 18. In the second cycle, students work on projects in core subjects, while Islamic education and social studies exams are on March 13 and 18. In the third cycle, students take exams in all subjects from March 10 to 19, between 12 PM and 2 PM. The exams last two hours and are conducted online or in written form.
Expert Advice for Exam Preparation
An expert warned that children who have never fasted should not attempt fasting during exams. Children unaccustomed to fasting may experience fatigue and concentration difficulties, which could negatively affect their performance. According to a pediatric and child nephrology expert at Fakeeh University Hospital, fasting preparations should be gradual so children don't feel exhausted.
The expert emphasized that rest is crucial on the nights before exams. "Even if they sleep for just an hour after studying, it is crucial," she said. She also highlighted that the quality of nutrition is more important than quantity. She recommended avoiding heavy, greasy, or sugary foods, as these can cause sluggishness and drowsiness.
Nutrition Tips for Iftar and Suhoor
An ideal suhoor meal should be light yet nutritious, rich in protein and low in sugar. "Dates with bananas or a slice of toast with bananas are great choices for suhoor. These foods provide long-lasting energy and essential nutrients," she suggested.
Adequate hydration is also crucial. Students should continuously drink fluids after iftar and during suhoor to keep their bodies well-hydrated. "These measures can help students feel physically and mentally prepared for exams," she added.
Summary
Combining Ramadan with exams poses a challenge, but with proper planning and following expert advice, students can successfully navigate this period. Managing rest, nutrition, and scheduling allows students to perform their best while respecting the holy month of Ramadan.
