[(JD)]

So many students have test anxiety, yet may not realize how much it affects them. Blanking out, freezing up during a test, stomach aches, lightheadedness, and sometimes down-right fear and flight are just some of the results of test anxiety.

Some anxiety is to be expected and can help a student focus and do better on a test. Anytime there is overwhelming anxiety steps need to be taken to address this.

Try to identify the cause of the fear. Is this the final test that will result in a pass or fail situation? Do they just don't understand the material? Have you truly not paid attention in class, nor studied the test topics? Did you do poorly on the previous test? Perhaps there are issues with the classmates or teacher themselves.

As I said, don't ignore test anxiety--address it. It won't just go away on it's own. For some reason a person with test anxiety needs help, which could be in the form of just obtaining more time to take the test. Not everyone learns the same way, nor does everyone do well on any type of test. ( A good test has different ways to respond: multiple choice, narrative, True-False etc.) Analyze what tests you do well on, you might find that you really do well on multiple choice and have a difficult time expressing what you know on narrative answers. Knowing how you test well can help you find help for improving on other styles.

It could be you need accommodations when it comes to taking tests. Talk to the school counselor/psychologist. Having any mental disorder can result in poor testing in school subjects...and you may need to obtain professional help in realizing how you can do better and in gaining the support in speaking with the teacher(s) to provide those accommodations.

It could be you need help in learning how to study. I know from experience that taking "Federal" or "Government" exams requires special understanding, but once you know "how" to take their tests, you'd do fine (assuming of course that you know the subject material in the first place.)

If you are paying attention in class, working on homework and class projects, taking good notes and studying and still aren't doing well on the tests, it's time to ask for help. Sometimes just by approaching the teacher for this help will suffice. The teacher will then realize you care about learning and showing your knowledge in the subject where they might have the attitude that you really don't care. (And giving an air of not caring is a defense mechanism used by some who really do but don't know how to change the outcomes of poor grades.) It could be something "simple" like you aren't reading the test directions properly. Or it could be your anxiety is preventing you from obtaining a good night's sleep the night before the test.

Learn some anxiety lowering skills. Breathe...block negative thoughts that do nothing for you...maybe take a minute before a test and meditate on positive affirmations such as, "I studied for this test" "I can remember the answers I need" etc. And do your best.

Finally, don't judge your character by any test or class. Not everyone does well in every subject. You are no less a person if you fail a test or even a course! You "just" didn't do well in that class or on that test. Don't put so much emphasis on grades that you develop a low opinion of yourself. You don't think less of a good friend who studies yet fails a test, do you? Neither do they of you...

drjean

hey, what a useful post!

thanks for sharing it- i am sure it will help many people

[completeme]

I happened to read this as I was having a panic attack about a calculus test I took earlier today. This was so helpful in calming me down. Thank you so much for taking the time to post this

[Ne5o2]

What if I get good grades but still thinking my knowledge is zero?? I told my Dr a.k.a mentor, I think I start to left behind, can't cope with my study, she tel me ur grades reflect how much ur knowledge is, but I don't think so.. I think my technique is wrong. Study for knowledge that last life long is the one matter, what the points if I can score but after exam I like having dementia??

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