This is only a test …: Does the mere thought of taking a test make your stomach flutter and your lips stutter? Here's a lesson in how to take your next test with finesse… - GL life

Girls' Life, Dec, 2003 by Michelle Cove

You've studied for days, maybe even weeks, absorbing facts and figures. You've read and re-read your notes, and had your parents and sibs quiz you from a stack of index cards. You know the information inside and out, and feel ready to ace this test!

Until ... test day roils around. It's 8:30 a.m., and you feel like you're entering the classroom of doom. Sweaty palms, shallow breathing, a case of the shakes...

It's called exam anxiety, and you're far from alone if you suffer from it. What you need are some skills to keep you cool and collected next time a test hits your desk. Break out a pencil and paper--you might want to take notes.

BEFORE THE EXAM

The fear factor. It's normal to feel stressed before a test, and it doesn't help to bottle up all your worries. Talk to someone--a teacher, parent, tutor or friend--to relieve some of the anxiety.

Lighten up. It's hard to memorize info you find as exciting as a four-hour French melodrama with no subtitles. Liven things up a bit by talking about the material with a friend from the class.

It's all in the timing. For a lot of girls, it's all about the pressure of knowing they're being timed. Have a study partner ask you a certain amount of test questions while timing you so you can get comfortable spouting off answers to a ticking clock.

Just say "no" to caffeine. Too much can interfere with sleep--and you don't need to be all wide-eyed the night before an exam. And you might think a Diet Coke right before an exam will give you that little extra boost, but it'll really just hype you up, making it harder to focus.

Breakfast is for champions. Whatever you do, don't skip breakfast--even if your stomach is in knots. Studies have proven that kids who eat breakfast score better on tests. Bagel, anyone?

DURING THE EXAM

Envision the best. Girls too often picture themselves failing rather than telling themselves they're going to do well. Go into an exam room with a positive mindset. Picture yourself getting a big fat A when your exam is passed back.

Stay grounded. Keep both feet flat on the floor during the exam. When students get nervous, they tend to swivel, tap, circle their ankles 'round and 'round.... All that movement can keep you from thinking clearly.

Breakin' away. If you start to freak, take a moment to look up. It will give your eyes a rest and your brain a chance to regroup. Take a few deep breaths.

Accentuate the positive, Rather than cursing yourself if you don't know an answer, give yourself a mental "good job, girl!" when you do know an answer.

AFTER THE EXAM

Way to go! No matter how you think you did, give yourself a huge congrats for getting through a difficult challenge. Also give yourself a pat on the back for answers you know you got right, and forgive yourself for those you messed up. It's healthy to consider whether there are ways you could have done better, but it's pointless to beat up on yourself.

Sending out an S.O.S. If you're having trouble with the material or studying for tests in general, help is available. Start with your teacher, who will likely be able to help you after class or at least suggest a tutor. Teach should be thrilled that you axe concerned enough to ask for help.

And finally ... Once you've put these test-taking tips into practice, remember that one test does not reflect who you are. It is only one grade in a lifetime of challenges and adventures you'll have. Even if you do poorly, in the whole of your life, it's not going to end up being such a big deal. Knowing you can face a tough situation without freaking out, however, will go a mighty long way.