Dealing with Test Anxiety

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Dealing with Test Anxiety
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Anxiety

• Occurs when the level of stress is excessive to
  the point that it hinders the ability to perform
  well

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Test Anxiety

• Is excessive stress that may occur before a test
  or during a test. Performance is hindered and
  thinking abilities are immobilized

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Physical Symptoms of Anxiety

• Rapid heart beat
• Increased blood pressure
• Upset stomach, nausea
• Shakiness
• Abnormal nervousness
• Headaches
• Tight muscles, tension
• Clammy palms, sweating
• Blurred vision

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Emotional Symptoms of Anxiety

• Going blank
• Sense of confusion, disorientation
• Panicky feelings
• Depression
• Procrastination
• Short temper
• Crying, sobbing
• Feeling of frustration, anger

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Steps to Eliminate Test Anxiety

• Identify the source of your test anxiety.
  Different sources have different solutions.
• Identify and use anxiety-reducing strategies
  appropriate to the source of your anxiety.

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Source of Anxiety

• Underpreparedness
• Past Experiences
• Fear of Failure
• Poor Test-Taking Skills

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Use Anxiety Reducing Strategies

• Self-Fulfilling Prophecy
• Seeing Success
• Internal Locus of Control
• Systematic Desensitization

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Take Tests with Less StressEmotional Preparation

• Seek support and cooperation
• Use positive self-talk
• Use relaxation techniques
• Give and receive praise and encouragement

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Physical Preparation

• Get a good nights sleep the night before the
  test
• Allow time for a healthy breakfast
• Make sure you have all the necessary supplies
• Allow extra time

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Mental Preparation

• Organize your materials for studying
• Make a special study schedule for test
  preparation
• Make a special set of notes that contain
  summaries

• Use study methods that give ample feedback
• Anticipate test questions
• Attend any review sessions
• Find out as much as you can about the test