Whether it be a pop quiz in history class or the dreaded SATs, simple things can be done to relieve the pressure and stress from an exam. Many of us know the feeling--the butterfly feeling in the pit of the stomach, the incessant leg movement of nervousness, the feeling of fear down the spines of our backs--feelings that can ultimately produce negative consequences in our scores.
Here are some simple and effective tips to help your test-taking jitters:
-Study! Nothing can replace the feeling of feeling prepared. If you fear pop quizzes, make sure you set aside time each day to review the material you learned. Gradually reviewing your notes each day helps you to retain information better. For those big tests (SATs and ACTs), make sure you study early. Getting an idea of what is to come greatly increases your confidence and rids you of any doubts.
-Rest! Almost a self explanatory thing, you sleep more, you think better, you become more confident in your answers, and you feel better.
-Eat well! Most people skip breakfast and don't have any food prior to an exam. Make sure you have a decent breakfast so that you have energy throughout the day, and carry snacks if needed. Then you won't be thinking of your grumbling stomach while doing your test.
-Relax! Calm your nerves. Try breathing before you take the test. Slowly inhale and exhale. You may look a bit stupid, but that's a good price to pay for a test score, right?
-Guess! This may seem pretty obvious in a multiple choice test. If you have a chance to guess a letter, do it! If in fear of a penalty, guess if you are able to eliminate an answer. Chances are, you'll have a slight lean toward an answer. Take that opportunity to make an educated guess!
-Go with your first choice! Your first choice is probably the right choice. Don't second-guess yourself. Change your first answer only if you are certain that it is wrong.
-Be in a good mood! This may sound stupid, but being in a happy mood is always better than being in a bad one. Your mood can affect how you answer, and it is best that your mind be positive rather than negative.
Good luck!
