For me, grades used to be a huge problem in school since I was not a fantastic test taker. The main reason was that I did not know how to stay calm: I always felt that rush of blood running through me during tests. When the moment counts I collapse under pressure. I am not the best when it comes to pressure situations, but here are some tips I have learned over the years to overcome nerves before a test.

1. Listening to music

I listen to music, but its not the typical heavy rock or stereotypical pop. I listen to music that has a soothing tone or an encouraging moral behind the song. Listening to this kind of music motivates me and helps me stay confident so that I can do well on the test.

2. Talking to others for encouragement

To set the record straight, I am not saying to talk to your friend and to get test questions. I am talking about asking for encouragement before taking a test. When I talk to my friend she always sets me in good spirits, and she always give me more self confidence before the test. In most cases she helps me do much better on tests.

3. Studying ahead of time and studying wisely

Although the most difficult, the best way to stay calm before a test is to study ahead of time and to learn the content properly and thoroughly. For some people, like myself, managing time is very difficult; for others, it may be very easy. Studying the material well ahead of time and understanding the class can clear away any nerves, a guarantee that I can get the grade that I can achieve.