Test Anxiety Symptoms and Tips Developed and Designed by Birma Gainor

Introduction It is important to learn to recognize test anxiety and how to deal with the anxiety. Most students run into problems with it at one time or another. Anxiety is normal, but do not let test anxiety ruin your performance!

Advice Overview Symptoms of Test Anxiety Tips for Reducing Test Anxiety

Symptoms of Test Anxiety Fear of failing before arriving to take the exam Feeling tension as exam is being passed out Physical symptoms such as: increased heart rate, shortness of breath, perspiring, etc. Negative thinking such as “I am going to fail,” “I am dumb,” I shouldn’t even bother taking the exam”

Symptoms (cont’) Blanking out on information that you studied Recalling the information that you blanked out on during the test, after the test Frustration with your grade on the exam because you know you were well prepared

Tips for Reducing Test Anxiety Prepare for the test ahead of time – DON’T CRAM! Get plenty of rest/sleep the night before. Do not forget to eat the day of the exam, preferably something nutritious. Avoid arriving early OR late to the exam. Avoid last minute studying – you are already prepared.

Tips (cont’) Avoid listening to others or discussing the exam with others – anxiety can be contagious! Do not forget to breathe! Take deep breaths to help you relax. Replace negative thoughts with positive thoughts – Repeat positive statements to yourself: “I am a good student” “I am well prepared” “I will do fine.” Do not get bogged down in questions you do not know – move on and return later. Other questions may clue you in, or the answer may come to you.

Questions? Please talk to one of the staff members if you have more concerns or if you would like assistance.