This list outlines the top 10 essential items every student needs for their end of year exams. Make sure you are well prepared and have everything on the list well in advance. All those hours of revision and preparation need not be wasted because of something so easily avoided!

For many students in the UK and around the world the end of year exams are stressful enough as it is, but not having the right stationery will add to the pressure, and will make the whole experience that much worse. You want to make sure you have all the items you need so that focusing on the task in hand is the number one priority during your exams. Realising that you are missing something essential in the middle of your exam will just add panic and stress to the situation, which is exactly what you are looking to avoid.

Pens 🖊

Note that we have written pens, not just pen. The last thing you want is to run out of ink during your exam and have no other pens to hand. Not only will you have to disrupt your other students exam by asking for another pen, but it will also break your flow and concentration. We suggest using black or blue ink pens as these tend to be preferred and some examiners won’t actually allow you to use other colours, such as red. It’s worth getting yourself a pen you are familiar with too. It sounds slightly temperamental, but using a comfortable pen for hours on end can really make the difference – especially with big essay-based questions.

Pencils ✏️

Some people prefer mechanical pencils, but they are not always allowed at exams so be sure to find out if they are if you plan on taking them in with you. Otherwise, classic wooden pencils are just fine. You will usually need pencils for multiple-choice exams, as you may want to change your mind on questions you may not be sure about. You should also ensure that they are all sharpened beforehand to avoid fiddling with sharpeners and pencil shavings during the exam.

You may also want to bring some coloured pencils with you in case you need them, such as for geography exams. If you’re allowed to take notes in your exam, colours are a fantastic way of memory association too.

Eraser 🔙

Bringing in an eraser is always a good idea in case you need to make any changes to your answers, especially in multiple choice exams and exams that require additional workings (like maths and physics). Be sure to take any wrapping off beforehand and make sure your eraser is totally plain, as branded or patterned rubbers are usually not allowed.

Small Sharpener 📝

A small sharpener is best, as they won’t take up much room and won’t be a fuss. Buy a good quality sharpener, such as a metal one. These are cheap, easy to find and you won’t have to worry about them breaking like with plastic ones. It’s worth noting that it’s a good idea to sharpen all your pencils prior to each exam, as to not waste precious time or distract yourself and others during the exam.

Ruler 📏

Many exams will require the use a ruler, such as maths, physics and geography. Choose a sturdy or bendy ruler that won’t run the risk of snapping. Again, it’s probably best to buy a plain ruler with no branding or patterns on it, as these could be taken off you if deemed inappropriate by the exam moderator.

Highlighter 🖍

Highlighters can come in handy, especially in English literature exams where you may need to read long pieces of text. You can highlight anything you feel will be relevant when answering the questions at the end. In fact you could use a highlighter to breakdown and highlight key parts of questions that you don’t understand. This is a great way to dissect complex questions in any subject.

Geometry Set 📐

You will usually be asked to bring in a geometry set with you if you are taking a maths or physics exam. This includes a compass and protractor, so be sure you have them with you. In certain exams a geometry set is an actual requirement, and in many schools they could potentially provide students with a set if needed, however it’s almost certainly easier and an advantage to have your own set for the sake of a few pounds.

Calculator 🧮

Check with your exam moderator which type calculators you are allowed to take in with you for your exams. Usually, a scientific calculator will be sufficient. You may need a graphic calculator if you are taking a more advanced maths exam, but they are not always allowed for other exams so it’s best to check beforehand. The last thing you want is to be left without such an essential piece of stationary.

Clear Pencil Case 👀

You will need to buy a clear pencil case so the examiners can clearly see what is inside. This is necessary, in the eyes of the exam’s adjudicators, to prevent students from cheating. In any case (no pun intended) it’s a lot less hassle to just buy a clear pencil case then carry it all in a ziplock bag.

Bottle of Water 💧

Finally, you should bring a bottle of water with you to the exam. You might need to take the label off first, but they should be allowed to be placed on the floor next to you. Just make sure you don’t take any answers with you into the exam on the inside label!

Now that you have all of your essential stationary items for your exams, you should be ready to give the exams your best shot.

Best of luck everyone!