Exam anxiety

The first step is to distinguish between two types of anxiety. If your anxiety is a direct result of lack of preparation, consider it a normal, rational reaction. However, if you are adequately prepared but still panic and/or overreact, your reaction is not rational. While both of these anxieties may be considered normal (anyone can have them) it is certainly helpful to know how to overcome their effects.

Preparation Can Help

Preparation is the best way to minimise rational anxiety. Consider the following:

Avoid “cramming” for an exam. Trying to master a term’s worth of material the day before the test is a poor way to learn and can easily produce anxiety. This is not the time to try to learn a great deal of material.
Combine all the information you have been presented throughout the term and work on mastering the main concepts of the course.
When studying for the test, ask yourself what questions may be asked and try to answer them by integrating ideas from lectures, notes, text, previous personal and/or professional experience, and supplementary readings.
If you are unable to cover all the material given throughout the term, select a portion that you can cover well. Set a goal of presenting your knowledge of this information.

Changing your Attitude

Improving your perspective of the test-taking experience can actually help you enjoy studying and may improve your performance. Don’t overplay the importance of the grade – it is not a reflection of your self-worth nor does it predict your future success. Try the following:

Remind yourself that a test is only a test – there will be others.
Reward yourself after the exam – go to the cinema, or go out to eat, or visit friends.
Avoid thinking of yourself read more