Before the test:

· Be prepared. Study the material in advance; do not leave cramming for the day before your test. Do not do a last minute review.

· Get plenty of sleep. It is hard to function at your best when overtired.

· Avoid any use of drugs and alcohol. They can interfere with your mental ability.

· Exercise. This may help to increase your alertness and sharpen your mind.

· Have a moderate breakfast. Fresh fruits and vegetables help reduce stress; avoid caffeine, sugar and junk foods.

· Allow yourself plenty of time. Arrive at the test location early.

· Choose a seat where you will not be easily distracted.

· Use abdominal breathing to help reduce anxiety. Place one hand on your abdomen, right beneath your rib cage. Inhale through your nose and feel your abdomen fill like a balloon…count to three on your inhalation and then slowly exhale counting to four, feeling your abdomen contracting with the exhalation.

· Do a reality check. How important is this exam in the grand scheme of things? Put it in perspective.

· Use positive affirmations. Say a phrase to help keep things in perspective, “I’ve done this before, I can do it again.” or “I have all the knowledge I need to get this done.”

During the test take a few minutes to:

· Review the entire test. Read the directions carefully.

· Work on the easiest portions of the test first.

· Pace yourself. Do not rush through the test.

· If you go blank, skip the question and go on.

· Multiple choice questions: Read all the options first, eliminate the most obvious.

· Essay questions: Make a short outline. Begin and end with a summary sentence.

· Take short breaks, tense and relax your muscles throughout your body.

· Pause, do a few abdominal breaths, say your positive affirmation.

· Stay in the present moment.

· There is no reward for being the first done.

After the test, reward yourself:

· Try not to dwell on your mistakes.

· Indulge in something relaxing for awhile.

If these test taking anxiety strategies do not work for you, visit the counseling center or talk to someone else on campus such as your RC or a religous advisor!