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BELIEVE IN YOURSELF: CULTIVATING CONFIDENCE FOR EXAM SUCCESS
Delivered by

Azeez ADEOYE, Senior Librarian,

Federal University of Health Science, Ila-Orangun, Nigeria,

azeez.adeoye@fuhsi.edu.ng

at
Special Friday Session

Organised by Muslim Student Society of Nigeria,

Federal University of Health Sciences, Ila-Orangun Branch

 

In the name of Almighty Allah, I seek refuge from Shaytan, the accursed. We seek the bounty of Allah upon the noblest of mankind, Al-Ameen, the unlettered Prophet who taught the lettered, the kind, gentle, and subtle leader of all leaders, Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him). May Allah continue His blessings on him, his entire household, his companions, the Tabi'een, the Tabi' Tabi'een, and all Muslims till the Day of Judgment.

Undoubtedly, there are hundreds of religions, and even among the heavenly religions, which are four: Musa (Torah), Dawud (Psalms), Isa (Gospel), and Muhammad (Qur'an). However, it is only in the Qur'an that Allah says, "Today I have perfected your religion for you, completed My favour upon you, and chosen Islam as your religion." (Surat Al-Ma'idah, Verse 3).

Other religions envy this verse, and their leaders have said that if they had this verse, they would be the happiest and would celebrate the day it was revealed.

It is important to recognise that Islam is a complete religion, encompassing all aspects of human existence—from conception (Q35:11), to pregnancy (Q3:6), to the formation of the fetus (Q23:12-18), youth (Q18:9-10), adulthood (Q4:6), old age (Q36:68), and death (Q29:57-66). The Qur'an explains everything you will experience in life, whether good, bad, ugly, or in between. But concluded by saying that after hardship comes ease (Q94:5-6)

The priceless favour bestowed upon you is that you are a Muslim. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, "If Allah loves someone, He gives them the understanding of the Deen." (At-Tirmidhi). For this privilege of being a Muslim, let us say, "Alhamdulillah." We are in the best religion, and Allah has acknowledged us as the best of mankind because we discourage evil, encourage good, and spread peace (Q3:110). Therefore, as a true believer, you must be vigilant in enjoining good and forbidding evil.

Why It Is Compulsory for Muslims to Strive for Knowledge:

The foundation of Islam is knowledge. The Hadith states: "Irfuni qabl an ta'buduni. Fa in lam ta'rifuni fa kayfa ta'buduni?" (Know Me before you worship Me. If you do not know Me, how will you worship Me?).

The first verse of the Qur'an revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (Surah Al-Alaq, 96:1) emphasises the importance of reading and acquiring knowledge: "Read in the name of your Lord who created."

In several verses, Allah underscores the value of knowledge, asking: "Are those who know equal to those who do not know?" (Surah Az-Zumar, 39:9). This rhetorical question highlights the distinction between those who are knowledgeable and those who are not.

A Hadith Qudsi also conveys the significance of knowledge, describing it as the lost property of every Muslim: "The Prophet (ﷺ) said: 'The seeking of knowledge is obligatory for every Muslim.'" (Sunan Ibn Majah, 224).

Furthermore, Allah advises in the Qur'an: "But seek, with what (wealth) Allah has given you, the Home of the Hereafter; but do not forget your portion of this world." (Surah Al-Qasas, 28:77). This verse encourages the pursuit of worldly knowledge and resources, while also reminding believers to focus on the ultimate goal of the Hereafter.

Acts of worship in Islam are not limited to Salah (prayer), Sawm (fasting), or Hajj (pilgrimage). Other significant forms of worship include the remembrance of Allah, seeking an honest livelihood, and acquiring knowledge. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized the importance of knowledge in several Hadiths.

For example, it is narrated that the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: "The seeking of knowledge is obligatory for every Muslim." (Sunan Ibn Majah, 224). Furthermore, the Prophet mentioned that "Whoever follows a path to seek knowledge, Allah will make easy for him a path to Jannah (Paradise)." (Sahih Muslim, 2699).

During times of learning, the angels are said to spread their wings to protect and pray for students of knowledge. This is supported by the Hadith: "When Allah wishes good for a servant, He grants him understanding of the religion." (Sahih Bukhari, 71).

In a notable story, after the Battle of Badr, some prisoners of war earned their freedom by teaching Muslims how to read and write. This story illustrates the high value placed on knowledge and education in Islam. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized the significance of learning by saying: "The best of people are those that bring most benefit to the rest of mankind." (Daraqutni).

To Become Knowledgeable Requires Hard Work:

Success will rarely come easily. Those who strive diligently will find success, including non-Muslims. However, for Muslims, there are rewards not only in this world but also in the Hereafter. Just as non-believers work hard, Muslims too are called to strive diligently.

Allah is sufficient for you, so approach your efforts with patience, hard work, and prayer. As Allah says in the Qur'an:

• Surah Al-Ankabut, 29:69: "And those who strive for Us - We will surely guide them to Our ways. And indeed, Allah is with the doers of good."

Additionally, the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) encouraged perseverance and patience in the face of challenges, stating:

• "The strong person is not the one who can overpower others; the strong person is one who controls himself when he is angry." (Sahih Bukhari, 6114)

Why Exams Are Necessary:

Allah says in the Qur'an: "Do you think that you will enter Paradise while such [trial] has not yet come to you as came to those who passed away before you? They were touched by poverty and hardship and were shaken until the Messenger and those who believed with him said, 'When is the help of Allah?' Unquestionably, the help of Allah is near." (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:214). This verse underscores that believers will face tests and trials, including those that may come in the form of examinations.

The topic we are discussing today is "Believe in Yourself: Cultivating Confidence for Exam Success." Success is a universal aspiration, and everyone wants to rejoice in their achievements. For instance, on the Day of Judgment, when individuals receive the reckoning of their deeds, those who are given their record in their right hand will be delighted and eager to show others. This is described in the Qur'an: "Then as for he who is given his record in his right hand, he will be judged with an easy account. And return to his people in happiness." (Surah Al-Haaqqa, 69:19-20).

Exam Preparation and Cultivating Confidence for Success

Exams come after you have been trained, informed, and taught. Examinations are a test of memory retention. Many argue that exams are not the true test of knowledge, intelligence, or brilliance, and this is true to some extent. This is why exams are not graded out of 100%. You also have the opportunity to be assessed continuously through tests, assignments, attendance, fieldwork, laboratory practicals, etc. Therefore, an examination is not the sole determinant of your results.

As part of the title for this lecture is “Confidence”, it does not exist in a vacuum; it comes after mastery of an act or process. Cultivating examination confidence for success is a process of mastering lecture materials, attending classes, submitting assignments promptly, and answering test questions properly. Consistency in these acts builds your confidence in achieving exam success.

Believe in Yourself

It is natural to experience fear, anxiety, and doubt in unfamiliar situations. Even the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was fearful the first time Angel Jibreel (Gabriel) appeared to him in the cave of Hira. The Prophet ran home and asked his noble wife, Khadijah (may Allah be pleased with her), to cover him. Allah addressed this moment in the Qur'an, saying, "O you who wraps himself [in garments]" (Surah Al-Muddathir, 74:1). This teaches us that when we encounter something for the first time, we may feel anxiety, fear, lack of confidence, and self-doubt. However, after several encounters with Angel Jibreel, the Prophet became familiar and even exchanged pleasantries with him. Jibreel visited the Prophet while he was sitting with his companions, asking about the Day of Judgment.

The essence of this story is to remind us that it's normal to experience self-doubt, fear, and anxiety. But to overcome these feelings and increase self-belief, we must believe in ourselves. Allah says, "Have We not given them two eyes, a tongue, and two lips, and shown them the two ways ˹of right and wrong˺?" (Surah Al-Balad, 90:8-10). These verses remind us that we have been given all we need to succeed in this world and the Hereafter. So, what remains for us to do? Practice and revision (Muroja'ah).

There are several popular sayings that emphasise the importance of practice: "Practice makes perfect," though it might be better to say, "Practice makes progress." Another saying is, "Proper preparation prevents poor performance." The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, "It is a sin to memorise a verse of the Qur'an and then forget it." This Hadith can be further explained as highlighting the importance of practising and revising what you have learned. So, dear brothers and sisters, it is compulsory in our religion to practice, revise, and re-read what you have previously learned.

Now, towards rounding up the topic, we shall divide the remaining sections into three: Pre-Exam, During-Exam, and Post-Exam.

As health science students, you are familiar with prenatal, perinatal, and postnatal stages in the journey from conception to birth. Similarly, university examinations can be approached in stages.

Pre-Exam:

Most of the earlier discussions have focused on what you need to do before the examination. For emphasis, here are the key actions to take before the exam:

1. Regular Attendance in Classes: Being present in lectures helps you grasp the material better.
2. Active Listening: Engage with the content being taught.
3. Good Note-Taking Practice: Take clear and organised notes.
4. Regular Study Hours: Set aside time each day to review what you've learned.
5. Regular Exercise: Maintain physical health to keep your mind sharp.
6. Good Hygiene: Stay clean to prevent illness that could disrupt your studies.
7. Good Nutritional Diet: Eat healthily to fuel your brain.
8. Regular Sound Sleep: Ensure you get enough rest.
9. Timely Salah (Prayer): Maintain your spiritual connection with Allah.
10. Good Morals: Uphold ethical behaviour in all aspects of your life.
11. Answering Past Questions: Practice with previous exam papers.
12. Group Discussion: Engage in study groups to enhance understanding.
13. Adopting the Best Learning Strategies: Find what works best for you.
14. Time Management: Plan your time effectively to cover all necessary material.

During the Examination

This is the moment when all that you have learned is tested. It is a critical time, and you must ensure that everything is in order. The first thing you should do is check the timetable and organise all necessary school documents such as your school receipt, ID card, course registration form, etc. Have more than one set of writing materials: pens, pencils, erasers. Dress appropriately and avoid bringing any prohibited items, such as jotted notes, hand-written reminders on your palm, mobile devices like ear pods, hands-free devices, contact lenses with information, small chips, or microchips. Avoid sitting at the back or near windows, and check your surroundings before settling down.

Once you are settled and ready to begin the examination, follow these steps:

1. Read the Instructions Carefully: Take time to read all the instructions thoroughly. Write your details in the designated areas and, if possible, on each page of your answer booklet.
2. Understand the Questions: Read all the questions carefully and jot down brief outlines for each question on the back of the answer booklet. It’s important to understand the verbs used in examination questions such as highlight, list, explain, discuss, define, appraise, compare, mention, state, etc. As much as possible, avoid verbosity.
3. Prioritise Your Answers: Start with the questions you know best. As the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, "Allah loves that whenever one of you does something, they do it well" (Sahih Muslim). Allocate equal time for each question and monitor your time closely.
4. Attempt All Questions: Make sure to attempt all the questions as instructed. When answering questions, write what your lecturer taught you in class first, then add insights from your own reading.
5. Structure Your Answers: Structure your answers with an introduction (state what you intend to discuss), a body (explain in detail), and a conclusion (summarise your points). For objective or multiple-choice questions, don’t leave any option unanswered if there is no negative marking.
6. Allocate Time for Revision: Ensure that you allocate time to revise your answers before submitting your paper. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, "Allah loves that whenever one of you undertakes a task, he perfects it" (Sahih Muslim). This Hadith encourages thoroughness in all actions, including exams.
7. Sign In and Out: Ensure that you sign in and out of the exam hall as required. Submit your paper before the rush hour to avoid last-minute errors.
8. Check Your Belongings: Before leaving the exam hall, make sure you have all your documents with you.

Qur'anic Verse for Reflection:

"...And that there is not for man except that [good] for which he strives. And that his effort is going to be seen – Then he will be recompensed for it with the fullest recompense." (Surah An-Najm, 53:39-41)

This verse reminds us that our efforts will be rewarded accordingly. So, strive for excellence in your examinations, and trust that Allah will reward your hard work.

Post Examination: Prayer, Prayer, Prayer

After the examination, the most important thing you can do is to turn to Allah in prayer. Prayer is a powerful tool to seek Allah's help, express gratitude for His assistance during the exam, and ask for success in the results. It is a time to reflect on your efforts, trust in Allah's wisdom, and ask for His mercy and blessings in your outcomes.

 

Some Post-Examination Prayers:

1.   رَبِّ زِدْنِي عِلْمًا وَفَهْمًا وَاجْعَلْنِي مِنَ الصَّالِحِينَ

o   Transliteration: Rabbī zidnī ‘ilman wa fahman waj‘alnī minaṣ-ṣāliḥīn.

o   English Meaning: "My Lord, increase me in knowledge and understanding, and make me among the righteous."

2.   أَسْأَلُكَ اللَّهُمَّ نَجَاحًا مُوَفَّقًا وَأَلَّا تُهْلِكَنِي بَيْنَ النَّاجِحِينَ

o   Transliteration: As'aluka Allāhumma najāḥan muwaffaqan wa 'allā tuhlikinī bayna an-nājiḥīn.

o   English Meaning: "I ask You, O Allah, for successful achievement and that You do not make me among the unsuccessful."

3.   رَبِّ اجْعَلْنِي مِنَ النَّاجِحِينَ وَاهْدِنِي إِلَى صِرَاطِ الْمُسْتَقِيمِ

o   Transliteration: Rabbīj‘alnī mina an-nājiḥīn wahdinī ilā ṣirāṭ al-mustaqīm.

o   English Meaning: "My Lord, make me among the successful and guide me to the straight path."

Reflecting on These Prayers:

After completing your exam, find a quiet moment to recite these prayers with sincerity. They are a way to seek Allah’s guidance, success, and protection. Remember that success comes from Allah, and while you have done your part by studying and taking the exam, the final result is in His hands.

Trust in Allah’s plan, be patient, and continue to make dua (supplication) for a favourable outcome. As Allah says in the Qur'an:

"...And whoever fears Allah - He will make for him a way out. And will provide for him from where he does not expect. And whoever relies upon Allah - then He is sufficient for him. Indeed, Allah will accomplish His purpose. Allah has already set for everything a [decreed] extent." (Surah At-Talaq, 65:2-3)