Test Taking

Reducing Test Anxiety

• Begin Test Preparation Early

  Begin studying three to five days before the exam, depending on the amount of information you need to know. Don’t try to learn the material the night before the exam. Cramming can increase anxiety. Being well prepared, on the other hand, can boost your confidence and reduce anxiety.

• Arrive at the Exam Early

  Arrive at the exam about fifteen minutes early. Rushing can increase anxiety. Being in a “calm state” upon arrival contributes to a tranquil feeling during the exam.

• Avoid Other Frightened Students

  Anxiety is contagious! If you see other students who appear anxious, avoid being around them (even if they’re your friends). Calmly reviewing your notes by yourself will be more beneficial.

• Go from Known to Unknown Questions on the Exam

  If you start to panic and your mind begins to go blank when you receive the exam, take a minute or two to calmly look through the exam. Find questions you know the answers to and answer them first. This will help restore your confidence. Furthermore, as you proceed through the exam, you may find answers to questions you didn’t know or clues that will trigger correct answers in your mind.

• Control Negative Thinking

  We all have a positive and a negative inner voice. Don’t let your negative voice take over. Counteract any negative thoughts with positive self-talk Be sure that your inner voice is encouraging and constructive rather than self-destructive.