Learning+Strategies+14+&+15+-+Test-Taking+&+Coping+with+Test-Anxiety

=**Learning Strategies 14 & 15 Test-Taking & Coping with Test Anxiety** =

Students can maximize their performance on tests by using effective methods for preparation and test-taking.
 * Test-Taking Strategies**
 * Goals**
 * 1) To improve preparation strategies
 * 2) To improve test-taking strategies
 * Before Tests**
 * Avoid cramming, be prepared.
 * Make a semester study plan.
 * Find a good quiet place to concentrate.
 * Join a study group or find a study buddy.
 * See the difference between study and review.
 * Predict test questions.
 * Talk to your professor.
 * Get a good night's sleep.
 * Eat a healthy breakfast.
 * VISUALIZE SUCCESS!
 * During Tests**
 * Breathe and focus.
 * Write down information you may forget-formulas, dates, etc.
 * Write your name on the test and review the entire test.
 * Write down additional information you may forget.
 * Decide how to get the most points in the least time.
 * First answer the easiest questions with the most points.
 * Read the question twice and set time limits for answers.
 * Review skipped questions.
 * Recall related information about each question.
 * Guess all remaining questions - Do not leave a question blank.
 * Review the entire test again.
 * Look for misunderstood items and careless errors.
 * USE ALL OF YOUR TEST TIME - To stop early can mean lost points on your tests!
 * VISUALIZE SUCCESS!
 * After Tests**
 * Assess your results.
 * Look for patterns in the questions.
 * Talk to your professor about your exam.
 * Go On!
 * VISUALIZE SUCCESS!

Anxiety is a learned response. Some students experience uneasiness or apprehension before taking a test. A little anxiety is good. However, extreme persistent tension can cause fear, dread, nervousness, loss of sleep or appetite, and problems with thinking and memory. Knowing how to reduce anxiety enables the student to take tests more confidently. Learn to r-e-e-l-a-x-x.
 * Test Anxiety**
 * Goals**
 * 1) To recognize the causes of test anxiety
 * 2) To learn positive techniques to reduce or eliminate test anxiety
 * Causes of Test Anxiety**
 * 1) Concerns about how others will view you if you do poorly
 * 2) Concerns arising from threats to your own self-image
 * 3) Concerns about your future security
 * 4) Concerns about not being prepared for test
 * 5) The more difficult the test, the more intense the anxiety
 * Results of Anxiety**
 * 1) Anxiety produces negative results.
 * 2) Emotions clutter thought processes.
 * 3) Worry scatters attention process.
 * 4) Situation becomes intimidating and can cause immobility or desire to flee.
 * Coping Strategies for Test Anxiety**
 * 1) Choose a time when you can be undisturbed.
 * 2) Find a comfortable, quiet place.
 * 3) Lie flat on your back.
 * 4) Put pillow under head if needed.
 * 5) Place arms at sides on floor with palms loose.
 * 6) Breathe slowly and deeply through your nostrils; exhale through your mouth.
 * 7) Try to feel any tension in body and try to release it.
 * 8) Concentrate on becoming calm and relaxed. Empty your mind of other thoughts.
 * 9) Speak positively to yourself using your inner voice. Encourage yourself to do your best.
 * 10) Open your eyes. Remain still for a while.
 * Techniques for Reducing Test Anxiety**
 * 1) Try to pinpoint sources of anxiety.
 * 2) Set realistic time, task, and grade goals.
 * 3) Distribute study over a predetermined time period that allows for sufficient break time. (Time Management techniques)
 * 4) Practice behavior modification techniques. (The Counseling Center is a good resource for dealing with anxiety.)
 * 5) Exercise at least 20 minutes three times weekly.
 * 6) Get adequate rest and nutrition.
 * 7) Practice relaxation and/or visualization techniques.