The effect of the circadian rhythm of body temperature on A-level exam performance

Abstract

Previous research points towards an effect of performance (both mental and physical) tests with performance improving during the afternoon, where the circadian rhythm peaks. However, this effect has only been studied on a small scale. In this study, the effect of the circadian rhythm of body temperature on performance by examining sixteen A-level exam papers across both science and humanities subjects (n= 346,825). No effect for time of day on performance was found (t=-.97, p= <.34). These results do not support the current hypothesis that body temperature regulates neurobehavioral function. Suggestions are made as to why no relationship was found in relation to the evolutionary function of certain brain regions and further experiments are suggested.