The last thing every student would want to hear is having to write a test. The mention of it alone can create stress among some students. This can go a long way to affect their performance during the test. It is therefore important for every student to learn how to manage or avoid test anxiety for improved performance. Here are some workable ways to avoid test anxiety.
Accept that test anxiety exist
Acknowledging the existence of text anxiety is the first way of dealing with it. As you cannot avoid writing exams, all you can do is to find ways to deal with the situation. Learn about test anxiety, its causes and effects, and adopt some workable solutions to avoid its negative effects.
Causes of test anxiety
Causes of test anxiety differ from person to person. They may include but not limited to
- Fear of failing to perform creditably, which would dent your image
- Lack of adequate preparation for the exams
- Fear of getting a poor grade and not progressing to the next grade
How to manage test anxiety
- Always go to the examination hall well prepared. No matter how intelligent you think you are, studying for an exam is necessary. At least read through your textbooks and lecture notes before the exams. This may refresh your memory on topics learned in class.
- Know your ability and be realistic with yourself. Some students may need a day or two to prepare for an exam while others need a week or more. Know the category you fall into and prepare accordingly.
- Positive affirmation averts all forms of fear that create anxiety. Once you sit by your paper, tell yourself that you can it and believe it.
- Visualizing what you learn is a quick way of memorizing. This really works for subjects that involve illustrations, pictures, and lab practicals.
- Procrastinating your learning schedules creates unpreparedness for exams and limits potential. Avoid it and always go by your timetable.
- Practicing what you learn is key when you want to pass your exams.
How to be successful in exams
To be successful in an exam, you need to study smart. Studying smart involves these tips:
- Be Realistic
As a student, you always have to be realistic and do things according to your capabilities. It is best to do one thing at a time than trying to multitask and leaving them unfinished. Also, set a realistic time frame for your daily activities including your study hours. How much time can you allocate for learning, while considering break times? Being realistic creates consistency in your studies.
- Be attentive in class
Sometimes lecturers can give clues as to what can appear in the test. Pay attention to things they write on the board, areas they emphasize or repeat, or what they term as important. You should also take note of the pages they assign to be read. That aside, you should try to prepare your own notes after class from points you noted down.
- Make use of available resources
Your teacher may not be able to extensively cover a topic in class. Therefore, it will be up to you to fill up the gaps left. In such cases, make use of the research facilities in your school. The library is there to aid you in are further readings or research. Also, try using the laboratory if the topic is experimental. You can also rely on the internet to explore different learning materials for better understanding. If your university has an established department or center you can seek help, then make use of it.
- Form a study group
Learning in groups promotes idea sharing and in-depth understanding. You can rely on group members for an explanation of something you didn’t understand in class and vice versa.
- Eat well
Normally, students turn to eat junk foods when preparing for an exam. This is because they want an essay bite due to lack of time. However, this should be the other way round. You have to eat a well-balanced and healthy diet to nourish your brain and other senses.
- Sleep well
A good rest/sleep is a necessity for a revitalized body and brain. After studying for long hours towards your exams, try to rest well. If you have exams the next day, try to have at least six hours of good night sleep.