Some Ideas For You…
Ø Find out if the test is multiple choice, essay, or short answer
Ø Make an outline highlighting key concepts
Ø Write out possible questions
Ø Review material with a friend
Schedule Realistic Study TimeØ Break up your study time
EXAMPLE: “I’m just going to take all day Saturday to study.”
PROBLEM: You are setting yourself up for failure…it is not realistic to study all day!
Designate a Place to Study
Ø Make sure this area is available when you need it
Time Management
Ø Give yourself plenty of days to study
Ø Buy a planner and plan your studying ahead of time
Take Breaks
Ø When you start to feel overwhelmed----STOP----and take a break!
Ø Write a list of activities that you find relaxing and enjoyable
Change Your Attitude
Ø Remind yourself that a test is just a test and there will be others
Ø Be aware of your thought process—negative vs. positive?
Ø Remember, the way you feel is a direct result of your thoughts
Thought: “I’m going to fail.” vs. “I know I can do well on this test.”
Behavior: Deciding not to study at all vs Study to the best of your ability
Practice Relaxation
There are many types of relaxation techniques you can use anywhere and at anytime. Here is one example of a simple relaxation method you can use:
1. Think of a time and place (I am thinking of walking in the woods on a warm summer day)
2. What do you see? (I see trees, I see logs, I see water)
3. What do you hear? (I hear birds, I hear the wind in the trees, I hear my feet hitting the ground)
4. What do you feel? (I feel the breeze, I feel the shade of the trees, I feel my backpack)
5. What do you smell? (I smell the grass, I smell the flowers, I smell the summer breeze)
6. Then concentrate on your emotional response (I am calm and happy)
For more information about test anxiety reduction techniques,
please call the Personal Counseling Center at x7119.
