With the first day of Enem (National High School Exam) approaching, the day before the test becomes a strategic field. This is not the time for exhaustive reviews, but rather for smart decisions that can define your performance.
This is the crucial moment to know exactly what to do to boost your confidence and, equally important, what to avoid so as not to compromise your entire preparation.
The first step is organization, according to Rafael Galvão, pedagogical director of Rede Alfa CEM Bilíngue. “Organize your materials, separating the original and updated identification document with photo and the black ink ballpoint pen in transparent material.”
In addition to the mandatory items, the specialist recommends that the candidate . “Think about the route to the test location in advance, considering travel time and possible unforeseen events. If possible, visit the location the day before to avoid unnecessary stress.”
Light eating and rest
The diet the day before should be avoiding heavy foods that could compromise sleep and digestion. Galvão talks about the importance of not taking risks. “Don’t eat anything unusual to reduce the possibility of an upset stomach or feeling unwell.”
At night, say no to stimulants such as coffee, soft drinks, caffeinated teas or energy drinks, which can sabotage your rest. “It is also necessary to relax”, says Galvão, suggesting pleasant and light activities, such as watching a film, listening to music, walking or meditating, focusing on de-stressing.
Sleep is sacred: “The candidate should go to bed earlier to ensure eight hours of sleep, as a rested brain functions at the peak of its potential.”
Don’t study the day before
The temptation to review everything can be great, but Galvão is categorical: “At this point, intense study should be avoided.” The focus now should be on positive thinking and confidence in your own preparation. “Don’t try to study complex subjects or memorize new topics, as this can increase anxiety and the feeling that you don’t know enough.”
Galvão says that students must trust what they have already learned. Don’t do crazy things, like spending the night studying, as this will drastically harm your performance the next day.”
No clubbing or partying
The pedagogical director reinforces that the day before is not the day for partying or partying; the priority is rest. “Also avoid excessive use of social networks, as disconnecting can help avoid comparisons and information that increase anxiety and pressure”, he advises.
Finally, be kind to yourself: “Don’t overexert yourself; keep your expectations consistent with the effort you’ve put in and accept that a certain level of nervousness is common.”
Technical preparation is essential. But preparation goes beyond books. Professor Eduardo Dias, a specialist in study strategies and emotional intelligence, warns: “There’s no magic, it’s about having control over yourself. It’s not whoever studies more that passes, but whoever can manage their time better, control their emotions and recognize their strengths and weaknesses.”
Emotional intelligence is a crucial differentiator. Feelings such as insecurity, nervousness and anxiety are natural, but they cannot dominate. “Maintaining emotional control under the pressure of the test is the main key to passing, as this way, the student will be able to apply everything they studied to the test”, says Dias. Take a deep breath, trust your preparation and face each question with serenity. Your mind is your greatest ally.
Checklist the night before
What to do:
- Organize identification document (original and photo) and transparent black pen
- Plan your route to the test location and, if possible, visit it beforehand.
- Eat light, healthy meals, avoiding heavy or unusual foods
- Relax with pleasant and light activities (film, music, walking, meditation)
- Get 8 hours of sleep by going to bed earlier
- Trust your preparation and use breathing techniques to control anxiety
- Accept that a certain level of nervousness is normal
What NOT to do:
- Study intensely, try to memorize new topics or complex subjects
- Spend the morning studying
- Go out to clubs or parties
- Excessively using social media
- Consume stimulants at night (coffee, soft drinks, energy drinks)
- Eating heavy or unusual foods
