On the day of the test you should avoid caffeine, sugar, and nicotine. An excess of any of these stimulants sets off a process that can result in rapid fluctuations of sugar levels, which in turn produce symptoms of anxiety and panic (rapid pulse, sweaty palms, etc.) Begin your day with a moderate breakfast. Arrive at the test location early. This will give you a chance to pick a seat location away from distractions.

If you feel yourself becoming panicky during the exam, try this relaxation technique: Breathe in slowly and deeply through your nose and feel your stomach (not your chest) extend. Hold for a few seconds. Pull in your stomach, forcing the air out and think "relax". Repeat 2 or 3 times. Practice this procedure while studying, upon arriving at the exam, and while taking an exam if you feel the need.

If you begin to have negative thoughts about your ability to handle the exam--STOP and deal with controlling your thoughts. Replace negative statements with positive ones. Instead of "I don’t know any of this," tell yourself, "I am prepared to do my best on this exam."

Try to do something relaxing the hour before the test - last minute cramming will cloud your mastery of the overall concepts of the course. Avoid classmates who generate anxiety and tend to upset your stability. If waiting for the test to begin causes anxiety, distract yourself by reading a magazine or newspaper.

When you recieve the test, review the entire test; then read the directions twice. Try to think of the test as an opportunity to show the professor what you know; then begin to organize your time efficiently. Work on the easiest portions of the test first. For essay questions, construct a short outline for yourself - then begin your answer with a summary sentence. This will help you avoid the rambling and repetition which can irritate the person grading the test. For short-answer questions, answer only what is asked - short and to the point. If you have difficulty with an item involving a written response, show what knowledge you can. If proper terminology evades you, show what you know with your own words. For multiple choice questions, read all the options first, then eliminate the most obvious. Unsure of the correct response? Rely on your first impression, then move on quickly. Beware of tricky qualifying words such as "only," "always," or "most." Do not rush through the test. Wear a watch and check it frequently as you pace yourself. If it appears you will be unable to finish the entire test, concentrate on those portions which you can answer well. Recheck your answers only if you have extra time - and only if you are not anxious.

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