Test Taking Strategies
Test preparation to reduce anxiety:
During the test:
Use relaxation techniques:
Test preparation to reduce anxiety:
- Approach the exam with confidence - use whatever strategies you can to personalize success; visualize, logic, talking to yourself, practice, etc.
- Be Prepared - learn your material thoroughly and organize what materials you will need for the test - use a checklist
- Choose a comfortable location for taking the test - limit distractions
- Allow yourself plenty of time - do things you need to before the test
- Get a good night's sleep
- Don't go to the exam on an empty stomach - make sure you eat a healthy breakfast/lunch before the test
During the test:
- Read the directions carefully
- Budget your test taking time
- If you go blank, skip the question and go on
- Skim through the test so that you have a good idea how to pace yourself
- Write down important formulas, facts, definitions and/or keywords in the margin first so you wont worry about forgetting them
- Do the simple questions first to build up your confidence for the harder questions
- If you don't know an answer to a question, skip it for the time being and come back to it later
Use relaxation techniques:
- Relax - take slow, deep breaths
- Don't think of the fear - keep on tast and go step by step
- Use positive reinforcement
- Expect some anxiety