If the only thing standing between you and the university of your dreams is a great score on a standardized test, then your archnemesis may be test anxiety. Here are four ways to keep stress regarding testing from getting in the way of the score you deserve:
- Talk to someone – Sometimes overcoming anxiety is as simple as talking to a trusted friend. At other times, you may need to speak with a professional to get to the root of why exams bring on so much stress and limit your performance.
- Learn box breathing – If it’s good enough to help Navy SEALs get their nerves under control, it should be able to help a student with test anxiety, right? Box breathing is a proven way to calm down within minutes.
- Reduce caffeine intake – Just the right amount of caffeine might focus your thinking ability, but too much can ramp up anxiety and make it more difficult to control. You may need to limit or even avoid caffeine as your test date approaches.
- Be prepared – There’s nothing that will make you feel more comfortable than being prepared. By doing research on what the test is like (or perhaps paying for a professional course), you can boost your confidence.
Get the Support You Are Looking For
College Planning Source offers college hopefuls the support they need when preparing for application season. Get in touch today by calling 858.676.0700 or requesting your virtual assessment online. We also offer free webinars that can help answer questions for students and their parents. See you there!
