• Reducing Test Anxiety
  • Why You Experience Test Anxiety
  • Solutions to Test Anxiety
  • Listening is More Than Lending an Ear

Reducing Test Anxiety

Why You Experience Test Anxiety

1. Being unprepared.
2. Focusing on YOURSELF rather than the task at hand. For example, saying to yourself, "I am so bad at math" when you should be concentrating on each particular problem.
3. Comparing your performance to those seated around you. Associating your grade with your own self-worth.
4. Putting pressure on yourself by thinking of the importance of the test. Continually reminding yourself that a lot is riding on this particular exam.

Solutions to Test Anxiety

1. Overprepare.
2. Focus only on the task at hand, not on yourself.
3. Use visualization; recall previous successes and trigger that memory at the beginning of the exam.
4. Use relaxation techniques such as deep-breathing and tense/relax muscles.
5. Praise yourself; be positive. Say to yourself, "I know that one" or "That's not a bad answer."
6. Remember - you are in control. Poor performance on one exam will not ruin the rest of your life.

Listening is More Than Lending an Ear

Are you a good listener? Many people think that listening is a simple activity. Nothing could be further from the truth. Good listening is a complex process that requires attention and effort.

There are four processes involved in good listening:

1. Receiving—this is the bodily process of actually hearing sounds and noises.
2. Focusing—this is the conscious attempt to discern and focus on a specific set of sounds from the many sounds around you.
3. Comprehending—this is the understanding of the meaning of sounds (for example, if I’m speaking to you in a foreign language, you may receive the sounds I am saying and even be able to focus in on the sounds. However, if the language is unfamiliar to you, true listening and comprehending will be impossible).
4. Remembering—this occurs after you have received, focused, and comprehended. This is the process that pertains to academic success. This is the one that helps with test taking. Using flashcards or your notes can help you remember.