I'm taking a test, and I can't remember S***....

Because I am a student, I have taken exams hundreds of times! Still, every time I feel like it is the first. I feel anxious! It's like I have forgotten the material I have read; that I am going to fail! You know, all the familiar “student thoughts” before exams. If you're like me here are some ways to help keep your stress level at a minimum:


1. Arrive early. Make sure you know the where and what time your exam is. This may seem obvious but you'd be surprised how many people don't know! Get there early to give yourself enough time to settle down before the exam starts. There's nothing worse than being late for a test that you don't even feel you know what you are being tested on.

2. Be awake for the test. It doesn't matter if you drink coffee, take a NoDose, whatever, try not to be asleep when the test is in front of you. Drool on the paper doesn't add to your grade. Ideally, you would have slept well the night before and not be tired, but realistically, we all know that can’t always happen. Other options are to shower in the morning, chew gum, to have a caffeinated drink. Not too much though! Be careful when consuming caffeinated drinks, you don’t want to be jittery for the test and write like your on crack!

3. Eat a small breakfast. You’ll want to minimize any possible distractions during the test. You can't concentrate if you’re hungry. But, don't over do it! Don’t eat anything that may upset your stomach.

4. Bring extra writing utensils. You never know when your pencil’s going to break or run out of lead or your pen’s going to run out of ink. And you know that whenever you ask for a pen, nobody ever has one!

5. Bring all essential test materials. There’s nothing worse than forgetting to bring a calculator or notes to an exam that you are allowed to use them. You fell really stupid then because you can't blame it on anyone but yourself!Professors also don't usually have extras or allow you to share with another classmate.

6. Go to the bathroom. Self-explanatory. This is another precaution to minimize distractions during the test.

7. Wear comfortable clothes. You’ll want to be comfortable taking the test. If your pants are too tight and you can't breath, your test isn't the only thing on your mind.

8. Bring any necessities. Bring a water bottle, tissues, cough drops, etc. Whatever you need!

9. Look over your notes. Review important information again before the test to refresh your memory.

10. It’s just a test. Remember that you studied hard and have confidence in yourself.

By Anastasia