The Exam Survival Kit:
What Every Student Actually Wants

There is something deeply satisfying about a good highlighter. It is not just about colour-coding—it is about feeling like you have got things under control. That swish of fluorescent or pastel across the page creates a moment of clarity, a break in the chaos. It is a visual cue that says: "I have read this, I understand this, I have got this." In a sea of notes and revision guides, that confidence boost is worth its weight in ink. And let us be honest, it makes even the messiest study notes look like a Pinterest dream board.

And that feeling? It is half the battle.

• Use pastel shades for soft focus and mood stability (ideal for long sessions)

• Stick to one colour per topic to help with recall

• Do not over-highlight—your brain will thank you later

📦 Pro tip: Bundle up a set of our pastel highlighters, a notebook, and some fun sticky tabs. Instant study starter pack.

A planner is not just paper—it is a power move. Writing down your plan helps reduce anxiety and gives a sense of control, even when the workload looks overwhelming. Each scribble or bullet point is a small act of self-assurance, a visual anchor in the storm of deadlines. Planners help students externalise their thoughts and break big goals into digestible steps, making the impossible feel manageable. With just a few ticks and crossings-out, a good planner transforms stress into structure, chaos into calm.

What students want in a planner:

• Weekly and monthly views

• Space for “brain dump” lists

• Stickers or symbols to make things feel less boring

🎁 Gift idea: Pair a planner with a motivational pen and a pocket-size timer. Add a sticky note that says, “You have got this.” A small gesture that brings big motivation.

Let us face it—study snacks are a love language. While we are not saying chocolate is a miracle cure, we are saying it helps. There is something instantly comforting about a sweet or crunchy pick-me-up during revision marathons. It is the edible equivalent of a pat on the back. For students facing hours of lectures, practice questions, and flashcards, a well-timed snack can be the perfect reward mechanism. It boosts energy, lifts spirits, and even helps with memory retention when paired with short study breaks. A snack is not just a treat—it is strategy.

Look for:

• Bite-size nibbles (less mess, more focus)

• Slow-release energy (nuts, oat bars, dried fruit)

• A touch of sweetness (because they have earned it)

🧺 Hack: Create a DIY snack basket with colour-themed treats and a mini note that says: “For study sessions and sugar crashes.” Place it on a desk or drop it off before an exam.

Stress relief looks different for everyone. For some, it is a walk in the fresh air, a way to clear the mind and reset. For others, it is a rubber duck that squeaks when you squish it—a burst of silliness that diffuses tension in an instant. Some turn to stretching, breathing exercises, or even short dance breaks to lift the mood. The key is recognising that calm is not one-size-fits-all. It is about finding that small, soothing ritual that brings the chaos down a notch and creates a pocket of peace in the day.

Our picks for study calm:

• Squeeze balls (silent but effective)

• Desktop puzzles (small wins = dopamine boost)

• Stretchy toys or poppers (yes, even for adults)

💡 Bonus: Fidget toys can actually help concentration for students with ADHD or anxiety. And they are far more fun than biting your nails

Whether you are a parent, sibling, flatmate, or friend—this is your moment. Exams are tough, but showing up with a small survival kit makes a massive impact. It is more than a kind gesture; it is a tangible reminder that someone is rooting for them. During those long, lonely hours of revision, that reminder can mean the world. It is not about fixing everything—it is about being present, thoughtful, and giving them the tools (and snacks) to power through.

Here is the formula:

• A planner or notebook

• A pack of highlighters

• At least one snack

• One silly or soothing stress reliever

• A handwritten note (funny or heartfelt—it works)

🎒 Wrap it all in a pouch, tote, or reusable lunchbox. Call it the “Do Not Panic Pack.”

Exams do not last forever—but the feeling of being thought of during a hard time? That sticks. Whether it is the thrill of a colour-coded timetable, the surprise of a bubblegum-scented eraser, or simply knowing someone believes in you—small gestures can make a big difference. These thoughtful moments break through the stress and turn quiet evenings into something meaningful. Often, it is these acts of care that students remember long after the tests are over. So if you are shopping for a student (or are one yourself), remember this: you cannot study for them, but you can help them smile. And sometimes, that smile is what carries them across the finish line.

🎒 Explore planners, stationery, snacks, and all the cheerful bits to create your own survival kit. Because we are here to help you pass with flying colours.