Test prep & study resources

• Prepare. Being well prepared for a test is the best way to reduce test-taking anxiety.
• Don’t cram. Space out your studying over a few days or weeks, and continually review class material. Don't try to learn everything the night before.
• Stay positive. Try to maintain a positive attitude while preparing for the test and during the test.
• Exercise. Exercising for a few days before the test can help reduce stress.
• Sleep. Get a good night's sleep before the test.
• Arrive early. Show up to class early so you won't have to worry about being late.
• Chew gum. Chewing gum (if allowed) during the test may help relieve test anxiety.
• Stay relaxed. If you begin to get nervous, take a few deep breaths slowly to relax yourself, and then get back to work.
• Take your time. Read the directions and questions slowly and carefully. And if you don't understand the directions on the test, ask the instructor to explain it to you.

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• Determine timing. Skim through the test to get an idea how to pace yourself to complete the test in time.
• Add notes. Write down important formulas, facts, definitions and/or keywords in the margin first so you won't worry about forgetting them.
• Take it easy. Complete the simple questions first to help build up your confidence for the harder questions.
• Set your own pace. Don't worry about how fast other people finish their test; just concentrate on your own test.
• Tackle the questions you know first. If you don't know an answer to a question, skip it for the time being (come back to it later if you have time), and remember you don't have to get every question right to do well on the test.
• Focus on the question at hand. Don't let your mind wander on other things.
• Reach out to a counselor. If you're still experiencing extreme test anxiety after following these tips, reach out to your academic advisor, counselor or TimelyCare.

Note-taking tips

• Note key points. If your instructor writes something on the whiteboard or repeats an idea, it’s usually a key point, and you should write it down. 
• Be flexible. Use a three-ring binder or a laptop for more flexibility in rearranging your notes. 
• Sit at the front. Try to sit towards the front and center of the class where you'll be less distracted and can best hear your instructor and have a good angle on any visual aids shown. 
• Take your own notes. Don't rely on someone else's notes; you may not understand everything they write down, and you'll learn the best by taking your own notes.
• Record lectures (if allowed). If your instructor talks fast, it may help to bring an audio recorder and record the lecture while taking notes. After the lecture is over, you can replay the lecture and fill in any parts you missed.

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• Prepare. Do reading assignments or homework questions before class; it’s easier to take notes when you know what your instructor is talking about. 
• Date your notes. Add titles and subtitles when you move onto a new topic for easy referencing. 
• Track terminology. Write down any terminology along with the definition that the instructor may present. 
• Clarify. If you missed what your instructor said, ask them to repeat it, or go to the instructor after class to ask for clarification. If you’re in a rush, ask your instructor at the beginning of the next class, or try to find the answer from a friend. Compare notes with a classmate to make sure you didn't miss any important points.