Some students totally nail their theory exams but get really anxious when it’s time to use instruments or do hands-on experiments. Lab sessions can be pretty daunting with limited resources, pressure from the group, or just the fear of messing up.
Did you ever feel confident in theory but nervous in lab sessions during your degree?
This situation may happen to those who may be memorising a concept without understanding the principle and basics, I believe. Personally I am good at experiments and concepts than written exams/ theory.
I didn’t get nervous when it comes to performing an experiments or practicals. I am quite good at lab as compared to theory exams. Understanding basic principles helps a lot to overcome the nervousness in lab sessions.
Theory gave me confidence, but experiments taught me patience.
Personally I don’t have ethics issue but I have lot of my friends who are afraid in labs , this issue mainly occurs because of alow communication and confidence
Yes, absolutely! I often felt super confident on paper but the moment I held an instrument, nerves kicked in. With practice it got better though. Lab work really teaches patience and presence in a way theory can’t.
Lab jitters are real and absolutely normal. Feeling nervous when you’re surrounded by equipment and protocols is common, especially during practical pharmacy sessions. One trick that works for me: thoroughly prep at home, then start slow in the lab review the steps to build confidence. Before long, what felt like overwhelming chaos turns into familiar routine.
For me it’s sometimes the other way around, I might be thorough with applying myself and getting the work done, but struggle with gathering the theory together in my head while answering during viva. I think it’s all about the level of preparation and self-belief you have. Your greatest allies during a practical exam are confidence and composure.
Yes, I too have felt the same during my first practical exams, as we are new to managing complex instruments and equipment and the presence of an external invigilator makes it all the more anxious. But these anxiety and nervousness gradually decreased with practice, and I became confident in my lab sessions as well.
Theoretical knowledge is important but having good Practical knowledge will always be a plus point. As for me i feel confident in theory but learning through hands-on boosted my confidence more.