Test Taking: Managing The Fear Of Tests

Test Taking: Managing The Fear Of Tests

Academic tests are often considered as one of the most crucial aspects of school life that majority, if not all, of students dread. For ages it has been perceived by children as an impediment thrown on their way by the “other party”- school administration. According to a survey conducted by a group of sociologists, more than half of the samples (students ages between nine to sixteen) claimed that academic tests were on top of their list of characteristics that obstructed their school life from being pleasurable. Another statistic indicates that fear of taking tests is one of the reasons why under-average students decide to miss out on classes and eventually drop-out of schools.

Psychologists report that while growing up children constantly feel scrutinized and under- pressure to succeed in every activity they are involved in; be it in something as mere as not stumbling on stage at a parents’ day or something as complex as setting good example in front of a younger sibling. Taking test is similar task but only in this chore the result is more palpable and prominent as the performance is graded and often it determines weather one qualifies or not for the next level. Consciously or unconsciously, child is scared of the consequence and of how his peers and parents may judge him. Hence, weather the student is prepared or otherwise, fear of taking tests exists universally.

Some parties believe that being anxious about taking tests is not negative at all. In fact, according to them if the apprehension did not exist one would be too casual about it and probably spoil the test due to under-preparation. Never the less, there is a line between being nervous and too nervous about the event. While one can motivate you to work hard the latter can make you almost useless. So, it is more than important for students to be aware of ways to handle this “hurdle” called test.

The best way to face test is to study. As tedious as it may sound, paying attention in the class and working hard at home from the very start of the semester is the best way to prepare for any test. But if you are like million others who can work only on the eleventh hour then here are the obvious but only tricks.

Divide time for each subject, allocating more time to ones you find difficult than others.
Work hard but do not stress too much. There is no point in staying up all night trying to figure out formulas that need at least a month to understand.

Eat proper food but do not stuff yourself with heavy meal such as mean or rice, as they tend to make you lazier. Water on the other not only calms you but also improves your attention span. Do not even attempt to mug up theories when you have no clue about the method. Instead try to understand the process and then try to test yourself on the similar kind of questions. Lastly, do not panic as that will only make the situation worse.

Tests can be daunting but not too scary if one is acquainted with appropriate ways to handle it. So next time you have that exam fever, relax and follow the pointers.