Overcoming Test Anxiety
Finals are upon you …
Tips for Combating Test Anxiety:
1. Be prepared – study over a few days or weeks time rather than pulling an all-nighter.
2. Practice good test taking skills
- read the directions fully and carefully
- answer the simple questions first then go back and complete the more difficult ones
- if you can’t answer a question, skip it and come back to it later
- for essay questions – start with an outline
- note formulas in the margins so you won’t forget them
3. Think positive thoughts
4. Stay focused on the exam – don’t let yourself be distracted by others around you
5. Try to relax
- practice deep breathing if you need to
- chew gum, if allowed
- make an effort to relax your muscles one at a time
6. Stay Healthy (exercise, sleep, eat nutritiously)
7. Don’t worry if other students finish their exams before you – there are no extra points awarded for finishing first
Good Luck!
Jill Turner, Librarian