WHAT IS TEST ANXIETY?
Too
much anxiety about a test is commonly referred to as test anxiety.
It is perfectly natural to feel some anxiety when preparing for and taking a
test. In fact, a little anxiety can jump start your studying and keep you
motivated. However, too much anxiety can interfere with your studying. You
may have difficulty learning and remembering what you need to know for the
test. Further, too much anxiety may block your performance during the test.
You may have difficulty demonstrating what you know during the test.
HOW DO I KNOW IF I HAVE TEST ANXIETY?
You probably have test anxiety if you answer
YES to four or more of the following:
- I have a hard time getting started studying for a
test.
- When studying for a test, I find many things that
distract me.
- I expect to do poorly on a test no matter how much or
how hard I study.
- When taking a test, I experience physical discomfort
such as sweaty palms, an upset stomach, a headache, difficulty breathing,
and tension in my muscles.
- When taking a test, I find it difficult to understand
the directions and questions.
- When taking a test, I have difficulty organizing my
thoughts.
- When taking a test, I often “draw a blank.”
- When taking a test, I find my mind wandering to other
things.
- I usually score lower on a test than I do on
assignments and papers.
- After a test, I remember information I couldn’t recall
during the test.
WHAT CAN I DO ABOUT TEST ANXIETY?
Here
are some things you can do before, during, and after
a test to reduce your test anxiety.
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