Sweaty palms, shortness of breath and a racing pulse can becommon complaints for many first-time test takers - especially atthe college level. However, there are ways to avoid these symptomsof test anxiety.
For some students, studying a little each day helps them passtheir tests.
"I had my foundations of math test recently and I studied as Iwent along because if I waited until the last minute it'shorrible," said Ashley Coleman, undecided freshman.
Setting aside a sufficient amount of time to study and reviewingnotes always works better than cramming at the last minute, U of Mofficials advise.
"Allow plenty of time to understand the material and memorizeit," said Kim Collins, learning specialist. "That is why crammingdoesn't work because there is not enough time."
For Amanda Branlett, a junior majoring in Latin and Greek,condensing notes and other materials is the best way to prepare fora test.
"To study for my first scientific terminology test I just putall the material on one sheet of paper to avoid flipping throughthe book."
Some U of M students find group study sessions an effectivemethod for grinding material into the brain.
"Studying in a group from either class has really helped me,"said Courtney Gauss, senior art major. "I've also found tutoringhelps too."
Some students find relaxing before a test helps them absorbinformation better and focus their concentration.
"I stay up all night and drink beer mainly just to relax andrefresh me to study," said senior Chase Clark, philosophy major."It works pretty well for me."
Other students said preparing for a first test is not asdifficult as it seems if they attend class.
"I have a physics test Wednesday and I plan to just look overstuff to prepare," said Nathan Ferguson, junior graphic arts major."It's not hard - just go to class."
While preparing may not be for some students, many not onlyworry about test preparation but also test performance.
"One way to reduce test anxiety is to design a pre-test ofpossible material and take it in the actual classroom," saidCollins. "Also, be clear of the professor's expectations and ofmaterial covered."
Students often wait to study and prepare for class after theirfirst test, but U of M officials say this could hurt students inthe end.
"When students have their first hard exam, they often drop thecourse, change their majors or blame the professor," said BarbaraBekis, Educational Support Program coordinator.
The University also offers help to counter text anxiety. Thecenters of the ESP are open all week and offer free tutoring forall U of M students.
For further help with test preparation, a memorization seminaris scheduled today at 1 p.m. in 209 Mitchell Hall.
