Photo Credit: https://www.flickr.com/photos/stevendepolo/

Photo Credit: https://www.flickr.com/photos/stevendepolo/

It’s that time of year. Students are taking state and district tests as well as taking the ACT and/ or SAT. It’s completely overwhelming. It is understandable that teens get stressed. Test anxiety is a common issue for students. There is no class on how to handle everything. Here are some tips to help students survive and information about Student Futures’s ultimate test prep guide to help you reach your academic goals.

  • Breathe! Relax. How many tests have you taken? You have survived them all. This is just another test. “If you’re feeling nervous when you sit down to take the test, take three slow, steady breaths. Remind yourself that you’ve been getting ready for these tests all year long.” – Ted Dorsey
  • Know when to stop studying. Too much studying will not create retention. If you are feeling overwhelmed or exhausted STOP. Take a break. Walk away from your study area.
  • Go night night. Lack of sleep can cause anxiety. Get enough sleep on a daily basis and especially before the test. Do not cram the night before.
  • Eat up. Energize yourself the following morning with a healthy breakfast. Don’t study! Listen to music. Create a power playlist.
  • Get moving. It has been proven that just 20 minutes of exercise each day can improve memory. On your long breaks go for a walk or use the SWORKIT app to do a quick 15 minute workout. It’s FREE!
  • What time is it? Manage you time during the test. Use ALL the given time during the test. Don’t get nervous when students start handing in their exam. It’s not a competition. There are no extra points if you finish first.
  • Need a boost? While studying and during the test eat a peppermint candy for a little pick me up.
  • What?! If you don’t know the answer to a question skip it and come back to it later. If you are completing an essay test and go blank pick a topic from the question or pick a question if given the choice and start writing. The answer may just come to you.
  • Oh the pressure! During the test if you feel tense and overwhelmed put your pen or pencil down. Stretch your legs and arms out. You do not have to stand to do this. It will help you regain focus.
  • Read. As always read the directions carefully. Read them twice if needed.
  • Get a quiet focus toy. Not a fidget spinner! Choose an anchor, something you can fidget with like a bracelet or eraser. Choose something that is not going to distract others but will help you focus.

Create the ultimate study plan with Student Futures easy to use test prep guide. Get the grade you want by following simple steps. Contact us for more information on how to get this guide and reach your academic goals. 

 

mel professional photo by kateMelanie Black is an Associate Certified Academic Life Coach and mindfulness educator. She is passionate about helping others and learning all she can in the process. With ten years of experience in the field of education, she is determined to help students succeed in school and life. “ One of my goals is to continue to be a humanitarian who helps our local community. I am passionate about my relentless pursuit of knowledge and desire to help others.“