1. OVERCOMING TEST ANXIETY
Did you know? Test anxiety is a learned behavior

2. Booklet Provided by ETS

3. Symptoms of Test Anxiety
Psychological
Physical
Nausea
Cramps
Faintness
Sweating
Headache
Dry mouth
Fast heart beat
Tense muscles
Increased breathing rate
Mental blank out
Racing thoughts
Difficulty concentrating
Knowing answers after the test but not while taking it
Negative thoughts
Remember: a little anxiety is good, but too much can hinder your preparation and your performance

4. Reducing Stress Tip #1 of 12
Not familiar with the test
Praxis TAAG
Learn all you can about the test
What topics are covered on the test?
How much time do I have to take the test?
How are my answers scored?
Is it all right to guess?
Study the TAAG (Test at a glance) prepared by ETS
Prepare early

5. Reducing Stress Tip #2 of 12
You believe myths about the test
Learn the truth about the test – ignore urban myths and gossip about the test

6. Reducing Stress Tip #3 of 12
Content not mastered
I don’t know enough to pass the test
Make a study plan with a schedule and stick to it
What specific areas will I work on?
When and where will I study?
Will I study alone or with a partner?
Are there any other helpful resources available?
Build your confidence with study
Keep a log of your study and achievements
Avoid cramming – this is the #1 reason a mind blanks

7. Reducing Stress Tip #4 of 12
Negative thoughts
I don’t think I can pass the test
Think and act positively
Remember that test anxiety is a learned reaction – prepare and “teach” yourself to overcome the anxiety
Replace negative self-talk with positive thoughts
There is a CUT score of less than 80% -- you don’t have to score higher than anyone else
Monitor your thinking – think positive thoughts when you feel a negative thought beginning

8. Reducing Stress Tip #5 of 12
Anxiety the day of the test
Eat a balanced meal prior to the test with not too many carbohydrates
Get a good night’s sleep the night before
Relax and think positive thoughts
Plan to arrive early or on time
Avoid any drugs or alcohol that will interfere with your mental ability
Chew gum during the test if allowed

9. Reducing Stress Tip #6 of 12
I am worried that I will arrive too late for the test
Prepare in advance (the night before)
Get up on time
Practice driving to the test site
Allow extra time for traffic
It is better to arrive early than late

10. Reducing Stress Tip #7 of 12
Body shows signs of anxiety
I feel weary and exhausted
Take care of your body before the test
Eat well; Exercise; Sleep; Take breaks
Study ergonomics
Learn stretching techniques Click here
See a health care professional if signs are severe
During the test – change positions, stretch, relax for a moment, visualize your goal, and think positive thoughts

11. Reducing Stress Tip #8 of 12
Tension builds up during study or the test
I feel overwhelmed or tense
Practice tension release exercises
Breathe deeply and exhale slowly
Close your eyes and imagine a peaceful place
Focus on muscle groups and contract and relax them
Schedule time for physical activity
Remind yourself that you have worked hard to prepare for the test

12. Reducing Stress Tip #9 of 12
I become distracted when I study and as I take tests
Test environment unnerves me
Tune out distractions
Wear earphones
Avoid arriving too early or too late
Choose seat away from possible distractions
Sit by yourself; don’t chat with others
Remain calm
Take a break if necessary

13. Reducing Stress Tip #10 of 12
Mind goes blank
Stay focused:
Arrive at test with plan for starting, don’t race to answer questions
Tackle questions one at a time
Mark difficult questions to return to later. Find an easy question
Once the test begins, write down any tips or affirmations on your scratch paper
Avoid cramming – this is the #1 reason your mind will go blank

14. Reducing Stress Tip #11 of 12
I can’t answer a question
Remind yourself that you can pass the test even if you do not answer every question correctly
Skip the question, check it later, and guess if necessary

15. Reducing Stress Tip #12 of 12
I worry about finishing on time
Be aware of the time as you test
Make adjustments as needed based on time
When taking practice tests, test under the same time conditions as the actual test so you learn to pace yourself

16. Final Words about Test Anxiety
Remember that you control the test – not vice versa. If you are calm and take the test with confidence, you will do much better than if you take it with nervous jitters. Use visualization: Imagine yourself walking into a testing room and sitting at the desk. Imagine yourself feeling calm and confident. Imagine yourself facing a difficult questions – let your anxiety surface and practice calming it down.

17. T H E E N D