Test anxiety is something that happens to a lot of people, whether you're a good student or not.
The American Test Anxiety Association reported about 16 to 20 percent of students have high test anxiety — "the most prevalent scholastic impairment of our schools today." Additionally, 18 percent of students have moderately-high test anxiety.
That being said, there are many ways to not only overcome that but keep it at bay, you're less likely to have it in the first place.
1. Don't second guess yourself
We all do it, but trust that your first instinct is the right answer (it usually is).
2. Start with the questions you know for sure are correct
It will give you a confidence boost and help you take the rest of the test.
3. If its multiple choice, use process of elimination
You have a 25% chance of getting the correct answer anyways. But, by eliminating answers you are for sure are wrong, you can limit those choices some.
4. Don't cram the night before the test
It really won't help much and might even stress you out even more.
5. Instead of saying "I have to..." say "I choose to.."
Attitude is everything, so go into the test with a good one
6. If possible, take several practice test
I know for school exams this can be a little challenging but if you're getting ready to do something like the ACT or SAT , take a few practice ones.
7. Try not to be a perfectionist
Been there done that and it's hard but it's another one of those things that would make
8. If you have time, review your test before you turn it in.
Not so you second guess yourself, but to make sure you didn't mss any questions or miscalculated an answer.
9. Get to the place or classroom you testing in early
Rushing to get there will only just make you more nervous.
10. Don't rush to finish first
Who knows, the person that finishes may have chosen the wrong answer for EVERY SINGLE question and not even know it.
11. Don't pay attention to what others are doing
Only focus on you and what is in front of you.
12. Pace yourself
Watch the clock, only so you can figure out how . much time you still have and make sure you are on track.
13. Get a good night's sleep
Getting good rest will ensure that you are sharp enough to understand the questions without having to reread them over and over again.
14. Remember some people and just simply not good test takers and that's ok
And some are.
