At some point in our school careers, we have all felt the anxiety to succeed and do well on a test. It is completely natural to feel like this, so don’t panic. There are many different techniques and ways to deal with the pressure we feel.
Freshman psychology major Emily Fleck stated, “As long as we have done everything we can do to prepare ourselves then there is not much more we can expect from ourselves other than remaining confident and not worrying.” She also suggested to seek out help if you need it, whether that means seeing the Director of Counseling Services Tim Morenz, or going to tutoring to get extra help. Two ways Fleck copes with test anxiety are listening to music and motivating herself with positive pep talks. While studying, she takes lots of breaks to let her mind relax. Some advice Fleck Has: “Realize tests are important, but tests do not determine the value of your importance nor intelligence. Remember that you have to prepare the best you can but leave it up to your brain to remember what you can.”
Junior graphic design major Alyssa Riegel said that her test anxiety and stress depends on how well she has studied for it and her interest in the class. As long as she has studied well enough, it isn’t a problem for her. A tool that helps her study is putting sticky notes at the start of each chapter or every few pages to remind her that she only has so much left to go. For others who struggle with test anxiety and studying, she encourages students to just take it in strides and only do chunks at a time. Riegel said, “Try your best because that is all that you can ask of yourself.”
Some other ideas that might work for you are studying in a distraction-free zone or even studying in a place where you are most comfortable. Before the test, try to remain positive in words, thoughts and even actions. If you are remaining positive you are thinking less about negative outcomes and possibilities. This could help you when you walk in to take your test.
Remember you are not limited to these options alone. Just because something doesn’t work for you doesn’t mean nothing does. Ask a friend or Director of Counseling Services Morenz what tips they have that have worked for them or others in the past. You could try talking to your professors. Look online to help you think of coping mechanisms. There are many apps out there that are anonymous and let you vent your feelings and get ideas from others. You could try 7 Cups, a free anonymous counseling app. No matter what, never stop trying until you find what works for you.
Don’t stress. You’ve got this!