TIPS FOR DEALING WITH THE STRESS OF TESTS

1.  Be prepared (see IMPROVING YOUR STUDY SKILLS).
2.  Understand how to better write tests (see TIPS FOR WRITING TESTS).
3.  Learn how to better manage your time (see TIME MANAGEMENT TIPS).
4.  Learn how to be better organized
(see TIPS FOR IMPROVING YOUR ORGANIZATION SKILLS).
5.  Visualize success.  Believe in yourself.  When you are well prepared, it is
easier to maintain a positive attitude.  Think the best about how well you are going to do.
6.  Avoid speaking with other students immediately before the test,
especially if these students are likely to be feeling stressed.
7.  A regular program of exercise (3 - 4 times weekly) can help you to better
deal with stress on a consistent basis.  Your exercise program could be as simple
as walking 30-45 minutes every other day (unless you have a
medical condition that prevents this.  If you are unable to exercise, consult
with your doctor for appropriate ways to deal with stress).
8.  Get a good night's sleep the night(s) before the exam.
Eat well and healthy before the exam.
9.  Learn some deep breathing exercises (a short course
in meditation, yoga, or some other forms of martial arts may
be an excellent way to help feel more "in control" of yourself).
10.   If stress is a continuing problem for you, seek help from
a teacher, counsellor, or from a student help center.