Test-Taking Anxiety: Overcoming your Fear of Failure

Your palms are sweaty, your heart is racing. And while you may look calm on the outside, inside you’re fighting the urge to run out the door and never look back. Sound familiar? You might be one of the thousands of people who suffer from test anxiety. For those that suffer from test anxiety, the questions on the test in front of them are not opportunities to show what they know, but a chance to expose what they don’t. If you’re one of the many that suffer from this problem, don’t worry- there’s hope! Here is a list of 5 ways you can overcome your fear and turn your test anxiety into test success!

Prepare, prepare, prepare

There is no substitute for studying and learning the material. Make flashcards, take practice tests like those found on https://uniontestprep.com arrange for study sessions with your friends, and seek extra help from a teacher or tutor if you need it.

Use relaxation techniques

If you start panicking before or during the test, start using one of the following relaxation techniques:

Deep Breathing- Clear your mind and focus only on your breath. Slowly inhale and exhale, gently letting go of any negative or anxious thoughts as soon as they pop into your brain.

Progressive Muscle Relaxation: Tense individual muscles for 5 seconds, then relax for 30 seconds, working from your jaw down to your toes.

Meditation: Clear your mind and focus on a positive word, sound, or image. If possible, close your eyes.

Change your location

Many schools will allow you special accommodations if you feel uncomfortable taking a test in the classroom setting. Ask your instructor what testing spots are available before testing day for a more private or relaxing space.

Don’t Cram

Cramming before the test will only stress you out more. If you’ve been studying up until test day, those last few minutes of stressed-out studying won’t do much good.

Eat a good breakfast

You’ve heard it a thousand times, but breakfast is the most important meal of the day! Try to eat something healthy and balanced, and make sure to include protein. Avoid sugary, processed foods that might make you “crash” during test time. And unless you have a serious caffeine addiction, also try and avoid caffeine or other stimulants that might make you feel jittery and less focused later on.