Helpful Information

Test taking can be a very stressful event.  Thankfully there are resources available to help reduce the anxiety and stress associated with taking exams that have a direct impact on your grades and on your future.  The first step in combating stress and test taking anxiety is to be well prepared.  Some of the links below are full of best practices when it comes to preparing for test day.  Although some of the links are specific to a certain type of exam, many of the recommendations are universal and can be useful to you regardless of the test you are taking.

• KSU Counseling and Psychological Services offers sessions to support students with test anxiety
• Test Prep Preview
• ETS – The Praxis Series:  Reducing Test Anxiety

Test prep dos and don'ts:

• Do expect some anxiety. It's normal, and sometimes an elevated stress level can drive you to do better!
• Don't spend too much time on one question. If it's confusing or time consuming, move on and return to it later if you can.
• Do read the directions carefully and read the entire question before answering.
• Don't leave answers blank or guess randomly. Eliminate choices you know are incorrect to make an educated guess.
• Do pace yourself.
• Don't change an answer unless you're certain that you have misread or misinterpreted the question—your first answer is usually right!
• Do review your answers if you finish early, and make sure you have answered all the questions.
• Don't panic if others finish before you. Stay focused, concentrate on your test, and keep working.
• Do remember to do the simple things: get a good night's sleep, eat breakfast, and pack the things you need for the test.