Test Taking Tips

Managing Test Anxiety

Test anxiety manifests itself emotionally, behaviorally, and physically. Loss of sleep, negative self-talk, and headaches are just a few of the symptoms of anxiety. Fortunately, there are ways to manage it:

Common Causes and Their Cures:

Unfamiliarity with the test

• Find out as much as possible about the test.
• How many questions are on the test?
• What is the test format? (multiple-choice, short essay)
• How much time will you have to take the test?
• What topics or chapters will be covered?
• What is an example of a question that might be on the test?

Lack of preparation.

• Preparation is key!
• Review class notes and highlighted text regularly.
• Make an organized study schedule and stick to it.
• Block off time each day during the week before a test
• Define terms and concepts in your own words
• Look for similarities and differences between ideas you are learning about

• Prepare effectively for your test using a variety of study methods.

Negative or perfectionist thoughts

• Pray and seek support from others.
• Think positive thoughts and visualize yourself completing the test successfully.
• Keep the test in perspective. Many elements go into calculating your final grade and a test is just one.
• Avoid over-generalizing (I always do badly on short answer tests!)
• Avoid catastrophizing (If I don’t pass this test, my life will be ruined!)

Physical barriers to test performance

• Get plenty of sleep. Cramming all night is not a good strategy.
• Eat a well-balanced diet.
• Avoid caffeine and sugar before the test.
• Arrive early, breathe deeply and slowly, and learn to relax.

Remember, some stress is normal. If you feel test anxiety has affected other areas of your life or has become uncontrollable, the Academic Success Center recommends that you seek professional help from Student Counseling Services.