By: Laura C.

On one hand, perfectionism leads students to hold themselves to such high standards that they believe that falling short would be detrimental.  Intense feelings of failure, helplessness, or impending doom can ensue if a student believes they’re unable to achieve the scores they need.

On the other hand, procrastination results when students feel so overwhelmed that, rather than spend their time studying, they choose to put off their work altogether and fall into distractions. 

Both perfectionism and procrastination can severely hinder students from performing their best and consequently, perpetuate cycles of low self-esteem and self-doubt when future exams approach.

In any case however, test anxiety does not have to rule the day!  There are many ways to cope with and overcome test anxiety to achieve the desired results on exam day.

Before an Exam

Preparing ahead of time is truly the most crucial step to performing well.  A phrase I have often repeated to students is, “Failing to prepare is preparing to fail.”  Some helpful preparation tips are to:

• Schedule in study time and follow through with your plan!  Be sure to include study breaks, and even allow rewards for meeting study goals.  Remember to include time for proper sleeping, eating, and exercise.
• Practice, practice, practice!  Take practice tests ahead of time.  Know the test format and even simulate exam conditions so that your practice time mirrors what will be encountered on exam day.
• Take advantage of tutoring opportunities!  Reaching out ahead of time to find answers to your questions and concerns will make all the difference.

During an Exam

It is natural to feel nervous during an exam.  Nerves and adrenaline should serve as positive reminders to take the exam seriously and to do well.  However, if feeling overwhelmed in the moment, remember to:

• Breathe.  Practice relaxation breathing techniques.  For example, inhale deeply through the nose and count to six; then exhale through the mouth and count to eight.  Several deep relaxation breaths will help slow a rapid heart rate. 
• Visualize ideal results.  If struggling with racing or negative thoughts, use your imagination to picture your ideal result.  Establishing a mindset that will serve to motivate you rather than bringing you down, will absolutely have an impact on your performance.

After an Exam

Now that the work is done, relax!  Regardless of feelings, relish the fact that the task is finished and reward yourself for a job well done.  If you know that you prepared well and sincerely gave your best on the exam, you do not have to spend extra time worrying about results.  Rest in your efforts and be confident that your score will reflect your honest work.