Test Anxiety

Before the Test:

• Be prepared! Learn your material thoroughly.
• Exercise. A program of exercise sharpens the mind.
• Get a good night's sleep the night before the exam.
• Approach the exam with confidence. View the exam as an opportunity to show how much you've studied and to receive a reward for the studying you've done.
• Don't go to the exam with an empty stomach.
• Fresh fruits and vegetables are often recommended to reduce stress.
• Eat a small snack to help take your mind off your anxiety.
• Avoid foods with high sugar content (such as candy) which may aggravate your condition.
• Allow yourself plenty of time to get to your classroom a little early.
• Relax just before the exam. Don't try to do a last minute review.

During the Test:

• Read the directions carefully.
• Budget your test taking time.
• Change positions to help you relax.
• If you go blank, skip the question, and go on.
• If you're taking an essay test and your mind goes blank, pick one question and just start writing. It may trigger the answer in your mind.
• Don't panic when students start handing in their papers. There’s no reward for being the first one done.