Test Taking Tips and Strategies

Test Taking Tips and Strategies

What is test anxiety?

Type of performance anxiety- a feeling someone might have in a situation where performance really counts or when the pressure's on to do well

Butterflies or stomachache

Tension headache

Shaky/sweaty

Increased heart rate

Test Anxiety Self-Assessment

Get out a piece of paper and a pencil to keep track of your answers!

How anxious are you? 1 for never, 2 for sometimes, 3 for always.

• Before a test I have sweaty palms, shaky hands or other signs of nervousness

• I get butterflies in my stomach before a test.

• I feel sick to my stomach before a test

• I look at the test and feel like I don't know any of the answers.

• During the test, my mind goes blank and I forget things.

How anxious are you? 1 for never, 2 for sometimes, 3 for always.

• I have trouble sleeping well the night before a test.

• I make careless mistakes like skipping questions

• I have difficulty choosing answers

• I remember the answers after the test is over

• I panic at the thought of taking a test.

Add up your score. What did you get?

Poll

What score did you get?

• 10-15

• 16-21

• 22-30

What your score means...

• 10-15= You do not suffer from test anxiety. In fact, if you are close to a 10, then a little more anxiety might help with focus and get your blood flowing

• 16-21= You have a normal level of test anxiety.

• 22-30= You probably have a high level of test anxiety. You might need some help with testing. Please ask an adult to help you! There are many things that we can do to make you feel a lot better.

Tips and Strategies for Managing Anxiety

1. Expect some anxiety

It’s a reminder that you want to do your best and can provide energy

Just keep it manageable!

Realize that anxiety can be a “habit” and that it takes practice to use it as a tool to succeed

Tips and Strategies for Managing Anxiety

2. Before the test

     Visualize yourself being successful

      Remind yourself about a time you got a good grade on a test

      Say to yourself: “I have what it takes.”

      Use your time wisely and prepare in a timely manner 

Tips and Strategies for Managing Anxiety

3. During the test

 Don’t think about the fear

 Pause: think about the next step and keep on task, step by step

 Don’t panic when you notice other students are done with their tests

 Remember, there is no reward for finishing first

 Acknowledge that you have done, and are doing your best

 Maintain good posture

Tips and Strategies for Managing Anxiety

4. Relax: you are in control

 Stretching- arms, neck & back

 1-5 deep breaths (in nose; out mouth)

 Close eyes for a minute to reset and relax

 Say positive things to yourself 

And sometimes, you just need a pep talk...