Good ways to cope with stress about an upcoming test or exam:
- Be sure to consult your syllabus! Many professors will include testing format, what materials will be covered, etc.
- If the syllabus doesn’t have the answers, ask questions such as:
- Which topics, chapters, and other materials will be covered on the test?
- What will the format be? Essay, short answer, multiple choice, etc.?
- Will points be deducted for spelling or grammar mistakes?
- How detailed will answers need to be?
- Attend review sessions with the professor or form study groups with other students.
- Begin to review your notes ahead of the night before the exam.
- Avoid all-nighters! You will recall information better if you have a full night’s sleep.
How will I ever survive the test?
- Focus on what you have control over. You can answer the questions to the best of your ability. Let go of what you can’t control — the grading process.
- Think carefully about the possible answers. Don’t get so in depth you forget the easiest parts of the answer.
- Spend more time on the questions worth more points. Try not to panic over a 5 point question and run out of time on a 25 point question.
- Try to keep positive thoughts about your efforts! Being determined to work hard and do your best will help you to be successful.