Test Anxiety

Test Anxiety

Causes of Test Anxiety
 

	Lack of preparation for the exam
	Cramming the night before the test
	Poor time management
	Unorganized materials
	Worrying about past performance, peers' performance, consequences of poor grades

Physical Signs of Anxiety

	Perspiration
	Headaches
	Upset stomach
	Muscle tension
	Attitude changes

Effects of Anxiety
 

	Nervousness Can cause difficulty reading and understanding concepts Difficulty organizing thoughts Difficulty remembering major topics, words, and concepts Poor results when material is understood
	Mental Block Can cause one to "go blank" Can cause one to remember the answers after the test is complete

Ways to Reduce Anxiety
 

	Be well prepared for a test. Know the material well
	Learn and practice good time management skills
	Try to maintain a regular schedule of reviewing materials, eating, sleeping, and relaxing
	Study throughout the semester instead of trying to learn it all at the last minute
	Concentrate on the material by creating sample questions from readings, focus on major topics, and creating organized outlines
	Learn and practice relaxation techniques