Butterflies in your stomach, sweating out of every inch of your body, and a shaky voice…sound familiar? That’s because you are recognizing these symptoms from test anxiety. I, for one, am extremely guilty of test anxiety. I have always been unsure of myself and very nervous before taking tests no matter how hard I study for them. However, since it is my senior year of college I have decided to share my tips of how I conquered my test anxiety.
Last Minute studying
I am sure we have all heard the phrase “don’t cram in your studying” or “don’t wait until the last minute”. Yes, it can get old hearing those phrases over and over again, but they are extremely true. Studying over the course of a week or two is extremely helpful before taking a test. It is best to look at the silibus before beginning classes to know what dates tests are going to be. If you have studied for tests over a week versus cramming in your studying into one night, there is a clear difference! You will feel more prepared and confident walking into the test regardless if you always have test anxiety.
Study Guides
A clear and concise guide to studying is what a study guide is for! Now, some professors will outline every little detail of what is going to be on the test. Other professors will only give you a general idea of what the test will be on, now just because the professor does not provide a study guide, do not freak out! This gives you the opportunity to create your own. By creating your own study guide you are reviewing the material you are getting ready to study, which will lead to you feeling more confident while studying. I typically create my study guides on Google Docs because I can highlight, underline, and bold my work. I also typically take notes on Google Docs so it is super helpful when transferring my notes into my study guide.
Definitions
When studying for tests we all have a preferred method of studying. I always used Quizlet; however I would also read the definition and memorize the term without giving a second thought to what the definition actually meant. It is better to study the definition because when you know the definition of a term and you can use that definition in multiple ways and examples. I used to feel very nervous about whether certain terms would be on a test or if I would even remember the definition for the test. When I started studying the definitions, my view of tests changed for the good and I always felt entirely more confident studying this way.
Why so serious?
Studying is important, no one is denying that. However, we all get in our own heads and become our worst enemy before taking a test. It is important to remind yourself that regardless of your GPA, one test grade, or if you’re on the border of pass or fail, everything will work out in the end, it just takes some hard work. Do not beat yourself up over a bad test grade, all that means is there is more space for improvement. Do not take testing too seriously, yes you should care about your grades, but you should not make yourself mentally exhausted over tests.
Breathe
There are some people in the world that are just not test takers (me being one of them). People are better at presentations, writing papers, or working on group projects. However, if you do see a test on your silibus do not get frightful, breathe. Practicing breathing exercises is very important as it will help you calm down. While commuting to my school every day on the day of a big test I always take a bunch of deep breaths, and I remind myself I got this! Stay positive on your test days, it is a lot easier said than done, but remaining positive will put you in the right mood to take that test!
Test anxiety can be difficult to get over. It feels like a never ending battle with yourself every single time you take a test. It does not have to feel that way. It took me years to get over my anxiety, however the tips I have provided will hopefully help you get over your test anxiety. Remember you got this and happy studying!