10 Ways to Bid Farewell to Test Jitters
10 Ways to Bid Farewell to Test Jitters
Hands trembling, heart pounding, palms sweating, and mind racing. Has this ever happened to you as you sit in your room reviewing for your next big exam? If yes, then you might have experienced test anxiety.
Source: Woman in red looking at her laptop
Feeling a little anxious before an exam is perfectly normal. Here are 10 ways you can manage and overcome your test anxiety!
- SET YOURSELF UP FOR SUCCESS!
Prepare in advance. Stick to a study schedule. Read on different references. Maybe even test yourself with tricky questions!
- GET A GOOD NIGHT’S SLEEP
Risking an all-nighter the night before might not be the best way to top your exam. Strive for 7-8 hours of sleep; take comfort in knowing you did your best.
Source: Man sleeping
- GRAB A HEALTHY BITE
Never neglect to fuel up before exams. Load up on brain foods: rice, fish, egg, greens, nuts, and berries!
- EARLY BIRD CATCHES THE WORM
The one who arrives first has the best chance to succeed! Taking an online exam? Make sure to log in 10-15 minutes before time.
- ADOPT A “GLASS-HALF-FULL” MINDSET
Your thoughts dictate your actions. Keep an optimistic mind, and remind yourself, “I worked hard day and night for this. I will succeed!”
- EMBRACE A LITTLE ANXIETY
Accept feeling a bit nervous. It’s normal for everyone. It may even motivate you to focus and perform your best!
- GET STARTED AND FOCUS
When the timer starts, keep your attention on the exam. Don’t allow your thoughts and eyes to wander about; remember, every second is precious.
Source: Two women writing on paper
- BREATHE IN, BREATHE OUT
Bringing in oxygen to the body will not only rid your jitters during exams but will ensure your brain keeps working! Hit two birds with a stone, I must say!
- EXPECT A FEW HITCHES
You can never be truly prepared for any exam, so expect to come across items you never encountered on your review. Skip it first, and get back to it later!
- REWARD YOURSELF WITH A TREAT
Buy yourself that drink you’ve been craving or that shirt you’ve been eyeing on! You deserve it for all the hard work you’ve poured in.
Knowing what is within our control allows us to better resolve our emotions. So keep these tips in mind to bid your exam jitters a good-bye!
References:
10 Ways to Overcome Test Anxiety. (2022). The Princeton Review.
https://www.princetonreview.com/college-advice/test-anxiety
Cuncic, A. (2020). 10 Tips for Managing Your Test Anxiety. Verywell Mind.