The ABC`s of Eliminating Exam Anxiety

Fraser, L. Making Your Mark. Canada: LDF Publishing, Inc., 2003.

1. Think positively. Thoughts such as `I haven`t studied enough` and `I don`t know the material` will only increase your anxiety level. Instead, try to feel good about what you do know. You hear it all the time, but a positive attitude goes a long way.
2. Take a deep breath. It really will help you calm down. Think of a reward that you`ll give yourself when you`re through - maybe lunch out or a movie with a friend.
3. If you draw a blank, don`t panic. It happens all the time. Take a few minutes to sit back and wait for it to come back to you.
4. Don`t look around to see what your classmates are doing. If you`re having doubts about how well you`re doing and you see someone who looks like they`re acing the exam, it will only add to your anxiety.
5. Prepare well for your exams. People who know the material rarely get nervous. Review regularly and give yourself practice tests.
6. Keep things in perspective. Although the exams are important, they`re not a matter of life or death. In later years, nobody will ask you what grades you received on your exams. They lose significance over time.

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