Tis the season of sweaty palms, bouncing knees, and the stomach ache of the century. Test Anxiety. The one sworn enemy of most college students. During midterms, finals or even the simple quizzes professors throw in.
Studying til 2 a.m.? Still going to have the overflowing urge to not get sick. But what is test anxiety actually? And why is it a thing?
According to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, test anxiety is a term for feeling physical and emotional symptoms and interfering with the ability to take a test. There’s extreme worry which can result in sweating, shaking, rapid heartbeat, dry mouth.
Anxiety is something that may hit home for many especially as it can halt the productivity of sleep, work, and testing. In my instance, I have had it for ages and it becomes an overwhelming feeling of dread, sadness, or stress. For example, having a test on a specific day where I am busy with work and other classes can become overwhelming. There is also the fear of failing that plays a factor.
Instead of having a panic attack mid test how can it be resolved?
Just putting aside 20 minutes a day to study can help. As well as asking a professor to clarify things over email or in person. Understanding information makes you more comfortable.
And although 20 minutes may not seem like a lot, just sitting down and allowing time to process your anxiety can help. If the thought of the work you have to do becomes overwhelming when preparing for a test, taking some time to just sit down and meditate or practice breathing exercises calms you down a bit.
According to All Minds Therapist Melanie Vorman, the app called Insight Timer is a great way for college students to find meditation.
“They offer some great meditations for tests, driving, and even just anxiety in general,” said Vorman.
It’s also productive with test anxiety to write down specifically what is something you think you might mess up on the test and keep practicing that specific thing so that it is less stressful.
I also recommend laying down and sleeping with a recording of what you’re supposed to be studying. It’s easier for the mind to process. If you do this with speeches the technique can help you memorize what you plan to say. It might seem like a strange tactic but it actually helped me a lot during my speeches.
Try allowing yourself some time in the morning to actually practice and study material. Do not cram in all the information right before you head to class but actually set aside some extra time in the morning to review notes or things you are unclear about.
The extra time will give you a confidence boost and reduce worry. Remember, test anxiety is something many students struggle with.
