What is Test Anxiety?
Exams are among the greatest sources of stress in college. Some level of nervousness before tests can motivate
you; however, too much stress can interfere with your ability to prepare for and perform on tests.
Test anxiety has two components: physical reactions and worry.
When kept in check, physical reactions (heart pounding, sweaty palms, etc.) do not usually impair performance
and may enhance your ability to focus on the immediate task.
Worry (that is, thinking about failure rather than preparing to succeed) is more harmful. You can use the following
tips to control worrying.
Before the Test
Develop a schedule for reviewing material. Daily reviews help you retain information better than cram sessions
before the test.
Compile a checklist of information covered since the
last exam. Master main concepts and important details.
Review class notes and readings. Information included
in assigned reading and emphasized again in lecture
is likely to be included on the exam.
Attend office hours and ask questions.
Review with other students or work on practice questions.
Review definitions of terms that your instructor has
introduced.
Find memory tricks to improve your ability to recall
information.
Ask the instructor what will be covered on the test
and what the format will be.
Review the syllabus. Anything listed will probably be on the exam.
Talk positively to yourself while studying and during the exam.
Minimize distraction. Wear comfortable clothes. Bring extra pens or pencils.
Review the instructions and the whole exam thoroughly before starting.
Stay aware of time. Estimate how much time to devote
to each portion of a test and try to stick to it. If
you get stuck, skip the question and come back to it.
Use any extra time to review answers and add improvements.
Strategies for Projects
Essay tests: Construct
a short outline, then begin your answer with a summary
sentence. Proofread for missing words or important
facts and check your spelling. Expand answers as time
allows.
Multiple-choice tests: Read
all options. Eliminate those that are obviously wrong.
Beware of qualifying words such as only, always or
most. Make a small mark by any questions you are unsure
of and review them after answering everything else.
Math problems: Don't
rush. Recheck your calculations if you have time.
Papers: Develop a timeline that includes enough time to research the topic,
organize the information into an outline, write (including a rough draft) and edit. Break the paper into
manageable sections. Include all necessary citations.
Presentations: Use an
outline to organize information. Spend time on an
attention grabbing introduction and conclusion. Use
visuals and props if possible. Practice your presentation
aloud (by yourself with a mirror or with a practice
audience). Concentrate on eye contact, speed and volume.
Volunteering to go first decreases your waiting time
(shortening the duration of anxiety) and insures that you will not be compared to others
before you.
MI Talk is a website for UM students with mental health resources such as online
screenings for depression and anxiety, skill-building tools, and recorded workshops, lectures and relaxation exercises.
