Our Top Ten Tips for Bar Exam Stress Management 

How do you get mentally and physically ready for one of the most important exams of your professional life?

To a large degree, bar exam preparation is about managing your stress levels and prioritizing wellness. While it may take some self-exploration and experimentation to find your calm, we are here to help get you in the most productive state for your bar exam studies and test day.  

Know That Stress is a Normal Response to a Challenging Situation

Some stress is natural, and in a small amount it can be motivating. Excessive stress, however, can hinder your performance. It can lead to burnout, poor concentration, and even health issues. Successfully managing stress isn't just about surviving the bar prep period — it's about finding a good combination of effective study habits, self-care, and expert support for overall wellness.

Follow these simple tips and you may be surprised at how focused, confident, and relaxed you will become as you prepare for the bar exam and approach exam day. Best of luck!

1. Take Care of Administrative Tasks Promptly 

Choosing to leave things until the last minute will not only subject you to increased stress but also may increase your risk of missing important deadlines and delaying your exam date. The process of completing the bar application is complex, and each jurisdiction has its own unique set of requirements and procedures to add to the demands of the process. By recognizing the intricacies of the application process and being mindful of the potential consequences of delay, you can approach the task with less anxiety.

2. Start Studying Early

By starting early, you get the gift of time — time to establish a study routine that suits your individual needs and preferences. BARBRI's Personalized Study Plan (PSP) is the ultimate way to set a pace and avoid the frantic rush that comes with last-­minute cramming. Our PSP allows you to approach your studies in a balanced and structured manner, allocating dedicated time to each subject’s nuances and complexities. 

3. Find a Study Routine That Works 

You have unique study habits, commitments, and preferences. It's essential that you explore and experiment with various study methods and schedules to discover the routine that maximizes your learning while minimizing your stress. Assess different study techniques, such as reviewing textbooks, practicing sample questions, participating in study groups, or using online resources, to find your rhythm.

4. Consider Your Surroundings 

Just as important as finding your study routine is finding your optimal study environment. Your study environment plays a significant role in concentration, focus, and overall productivity.  

A serene and quiet environment is conducive to deep concentration and absorption of study materials. The absence of distractions may allow you to immerse yourself fully in your materials for a deeper understanding and retention of the subject matter. On the other hand, an environment with a moderate level of background noise and activity may create a sense of energy and focus that stimulates your cognitive processes.  

5. Set Daily Goals That Include Practice 

Instead of vague goal setting like “I’ll study contracts,” aim for measurable daily outcomes, such as “I’ll complete 50 multiple-choice questions on contracts today and thoroughly review the answers.”  

Incorporating quality practice tests into your bar exam preparation is also a great strategy for managing stress and enhancing exam readiness. Practice tests play a key role in helping you become familiar with the bar exam’s structure and format. They also help identify areas of strengths and weaknesses in your knowledge and understanding of the subject matter.    

Check out BARBRI Bar Review’s learning methodology that supports frequent assessments for deeper understanding.

6. Prioritize Self-Care 

No matter how disciplined you are, studying for hours on end without a break is counterproductive. One of the best things you can do to manage stress is take care of yourself. Self-care can be as simple as taking a stroll in your neighborhood, indulging in a bubble bath, or simply going outside and enjoying some fresh air.  

Meditation is another good way to train your mind to stay present, reducing anxiety about the future or regrets about the past. With mindfulness (and a little study break) comes improved focus and better performance. Learn more about self-care strategies for managing stress.  

7. Get Enough ZZZs

While pulling all-nighters may seem tempting, sleep is non-negotiable during bar prep. Aim for 7-9 hours each night to allow your body and mind to have the chance to rejuvenate and recharge from the stressors of the day. 

When you consistently get good sleep, you are more equipped to cope with the challenges and pressures that come with bar exam preparation. This will translate to a higher likelihood of retaining what you’re learning for recall during the actual bar exam. 

8. Eat Brain-Boosting Foods 

What you eat influences how you study. It's important to recognize that while comfort foods and highly processed or high-sugar foods may provide an immediate sense of satisfaction, they can lead to energy crashes that ultimately contribute to increased stress levels.  

Instead, opt for a less heavy and well-balanced diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. You’ll benefit from better energy and mood regulation for overall well-being. 

Here are some mealtime ideas for when you are studying and strapped for time.

9. Visualize Success 

Self-doubt is a surefire way to add to your stress level and undermine your confidence during your bar exam studies — and on exam day. While visualization may sound like a simple exercise, it’s a powerful tool. Picture yourself confidently walking into the exam, staying calm throughout, and completing each section. These mental affirmations build positivity and self-assurance, reinforcing the sense that you’re fully prepared.

10. Leverage Support Systems

You don’t have to prepare for the bar exam alone. Whether it’s friends, mentors, a study group, or a preparation program, leaning on others can make a difference. Collaborating with peers or a mentor can help clarify tricky topics and provide motivation. Just be sure to choose a group or person that stays on task and aligns with your study goals. 

If you’re feeling consistently overwhelmed and nothing you’ve tried is helping to improve your well-being, one of the best things you can do is seek help. Most schools have some combination of counselors, academic support staff, and student health staff who can help you keep your physical and mental health in check. 

BARBRI is also with you every step of your legal learning journey to provide support and helpful resources. We've been in your shoes, and we know your health is key to your bar exam success. Please reach out.