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Exams

Studying for Exams

1. Form good study habits. Find a place where you can study with minimal interruptions and a time during the day when you are most alert.



2. Find out which material will be on the test and what kind of a test it will be.



3. Start studying early, and use the night before the test for a final review.



4. Form a peer study group. Your peers are an excellent resource--utilize them!



5. Try to anticipate what types of questions will be on the test to guide your studying.



6. Study a maximum of 2 hours per night to reduce fatigue.



7. Use the index and glossary as study aids.



8. Establish a solid sleep routine leading up to the test. Any less than 6 hours of sleep the night before the test and your brain will be focused on keeping your eyes open during the test rather than taking the test.



9. Think positively. Your attitude has a huge impact on your performance.

Test Anxiety

What is test anxiety?

Test anxiety is an overwhelming fear or apprehension about testing. Often times test anxiety is also affiliated with a lot of self-doubt.

How can you overcome test anxiety?

1. Be prepared. See Studying for Exams above.



2. Practice positive self-talk. Give yourself credit for what you've studied. Try saying to yourself, "I will do well on the test."



3. Don't procrastinate. Better time management skills can greatly reduce anxiety.



4. Keep your mind and body in shape. Rest, eat right, and exercise.



5. Have a plan. Expect a little bit of initial panic at the beginning of the test, but know that you have the knowledge and skills to do well.



6. Monitor your breathing. Having control over your breathing is one of the best ways to keep your body and mind relaxed.

Taking the Test

1. Look over the entire test before starting to get sense for how much time you should spend on each question.



2. Read the instructions...Twice!



3. Don't spend too much time on any one problem. If you get stuck, mark the problem and move on.



4. Try to ignore disctractions.



5. Let the test help you. Sometimes you may find clues to a certain area of the test in one of the other sections.



6. Read all multiple choice questions and alternatives very carefully.



7. Use language cues to decode true/false questions.



8. Take the time to make a short outline before you start answering essay questions.

For more information on test preparation, test anxiety, and test taking, check out our Flyers.