Everyone has had to take a test one point in their life. Most of us get nervous and may even experience a breakdown during the exam. This only makes things worse, as we all know. So then, how do we stop worrying as much during the test? How do we turn all that negative worried energy, into positive excited energy? Before I start you off, I'd like to proctor a Test Stress Quiz. It will provide a diagnosis of your level of test anxiety. Please fill in a number from 0-3 for each statement.
0 = Never 1= Once or Twice 2 = Sometimes 3 = Often
__ I have gotten so nervous before an exam that I put down the books and did not study for it.
__ I have experience disabling physical symptoms such as vomiting and severe headaches because I was nervous.
__ I have simply not shown up for an exam because I was afraid to take it.
__ I have experienced dizziness and disorientation while taking an exam.
__ I have had trouble filling in the little circles because my hands were shaking too hard.
__ I have failed an exam because I was too nervous to complete it.
I will provide a Analysis of your test score in a later comment.
To start you off with ways to deal with test stress management:
1. Get prepared. Make sure to know what to expect on the test. Studying gives you confidence and preperation for the test.
2. Practice Self-Confidence. Always keep a positive attitude. Stand in front of the mirror and say to your reflection, "I'm prepared. I'm full of self-confidence. I'm going to ace this test. I know I can do it." Record this phrase and play it at least once a day. This is no time to be humble or shy!
3. Fight Negative Messages. If someone starts telling you about how hard the test is, it is a form of a negative message which will bring down your self confidence. Repeat the phrase in your head if in doubt of yourself.
4. Visualize. Imagine that you have already succeeded and aced that test. Having a dream is the first step of any goal.
5. Exercise. Physical activity helps calm down your body and focus your mind. Being in good physical shape can actually help you do well on an exam.
0 = Never 1= Once or Twice 2 = Sometimes 3 = Often
__ I have gotten so nervous before an exam that I put down the books and did not study for it.
__ I have experience disabling physical symptoms such as vomiting and severe headaches because I was nervous.
__ I have simply not shown up for an exam because I was afraid to take it.
__ I have experienced dizziness and disorientation while taking an exam.
__ I have had trouble filling in the little circles because my hands were shaking too hard.
__ I have failed an exam because I was too nervous to complete it.
I will provide a Analysis of your test score in a later comment.
To start you off with ways to deal with test stress management:
1. Get prepared. Make sure to know what to expect on the test. Studying gives you confidence and preperation for the test.
2. Practice Self-Confidence. Always keep a positive attitude. Stand in front of the mirror and say to your reflection, "I'm prepared. I'm full of self-confidence. I'm going to ace this test. I know I can do it." Record this phrase and play it at least once a day. This is no time to be humble or shy!
3. Fight Negative Messages. If someone starts telling you about how hard the test is, it is a form of a negative message which will bring down your self confidence. Repeat the phrase in your head if in doubt of yourself.
4. Visualize. Imagine that you have already succeeded and aced that test. Having a dream is the first step of any goal.
5. Exercise. Physical activity helps calm down your body and focus your mind. Being in good physical shape can actually help you do well on an exam.
