There are three things we do alone: we are born, we die, and the most regularly forgotten is that we take exams.

From the SAT to Post-Post Graduate Exams like the USMLE or Bar, the only thing people are truly equipped with going into these tests are their brains. Is it any wonder most end up cracking under the pressure? Personally I'm preparing for the MCAT and despite the beautiful weather outside I've been bundled up in the freezing library desperately taking practice tests and logging passages. 

It’s easy to forget that testing situations are solitary endeavors. You can hide in the safety of study groups and test prep classes but at the end of the day it’s just you facing a stack of paper that determines your future. Each standardized test pushes students through an increasingly fine academic strainer, where depending on percentile and requirements you may end up getting stuck in the mesh, tossed out and forgotten in your mediocrity. If you manage to stay ahead of the curve then you’re pushed into even more demanding situations and paths that you may not necessarily want.

There’s plenty of value to standardized testing, mostly because it creates a statistically even playing field for everyone to compete in. The oft used explanation is that not all GPA’s are equal and a 4.0 at an extremely competitive, well-funded school is far harder to obtain than a 4.0 GPA at a smaller school with a more easy-going environment or one that provides grade inflation. Sadly, despite long standing debate, standardized testing is here to stay and as difficult to manage as ever. Our best personality traits become our worst under the stress of studying and coping (or trying to) with these exams. Whether you’re into biting pencils, flipping through vocab flashcards for college entrance exams or experiencing early hair loss and caffeine immunity trying to master LSAT logic games, here are a few easy ways to de-stress and deal:

1. Never underestimate the effectiveness of a good spa treatment: if you can’t afford to high tail it to a spa (can anyone?) take a shot at DIY. Your pores will be squeaky clean and the 45 minutes spent away from the grind will leave your mind fresh and ready for more action

2. Snacks: eat, eat and then eat some more. Your brain is a greedy bugger and burns through glucose like crazy while studying. There’s a physiological reason you keep emptying your pantry during a study sesh.  If you’re feeling health conscious stick to fruits and veggies with nut butter, but don’t feel like you have to suffer. The occasional carb and fat heavy bowl of ice cream and crushed up chips won’t kill you.

3. Drinks: not that alcohol should become a coping mechanism, but there is something uniquely soothing about mixing a favorite drink, cracking a beer or pouring a glass of wine. If you’re below the legal drinking age, or concerned about alcohol’s effect on your brain cells consider a soothing cup of tea. The worst it can do is stain your teeth and the best is that the warmth from the cup will remind you of the human companionship you haven’t experienced since locking yourself away to study. 

4. Be your own great DJ: Mozart when studying (it’ll help you retain information) and upbeat pop songs (or whatever you’re into) for the 10 minute dance break you should be taking every hour. Studying for the GMAT is no excuse for giving yourself varicose veins. 

5. When in doubt, air out: If you’re feeling foggy and blocked get outside and start breathing fresh air. Either take your books and study in the park or go for a walk and then work in front of an open window. Winter time may not be the best for this, but fresh air can generally cure any brain clouding.