Here are some tips to remind yourself of strategies that you can use to reduce any anxiety with taking tests:
- Be well-prepared for the test that you must take.
- Space out your studying over a few days or weeks and continuously review the material.
- Avoid cramming for a test.
- Keep a positive attitude.
- To reduce stress, exercise for a few days before the test.
- Show up to class early to avoid being late.
- Try to stay relaxed by taking a few deep breaths.
- Read the test’s directions slowly and carefully.
- If you are unclear about the test’s directions, ask the teacher to explain them to you.
- Before you begin answering the test’s questions, skim through the test so you know how to pace yourself.
- Write down important formulas, facts, definitions, and/or keywords in the margin.
- To build your confidence, you may wish to answer simple questions first then answer the harder questions later on. Or, you may wish to answer the questions with the highest point value early on during the exam.
- Concentrate on your own abilities and your own test—try not to focus on how quickly others finish the test.
- Skip questions that you do not know and come back to them at a later time.
- Do not let your mind wander while taking the exam.
- If you have time at the end of the exam, look over the exam for mistakes that you have made along the way.
Adapted from:
Ways of Reducing Test Anxiety WHILE taking the Exam
http://www.testtakingtips.com/