Being prepared for a test is the best way to prevent test-taking anxiety, however for some kids that's just not enough. Some people think testing is a breeze while others freeze up and feel like they don't remember the answers.
Here are a few "tips from teachers" that can help children calm themselves when they are faced with a test:
1. Prepare for the test by getting enough sleep, eating a good meal, and bringing a bottle of water if it is allowed. Sometimes it's nice to have hard candy as well.
2. Start the test by using your scrap paper to make a "dump sheet". This means that you write down everything you can remember about the test topic and refer back to the information later when you find a related question. If you have a pneumonic device to remember something, write that down first and then go back and fill in the words that go with it.
3. Read the question and then read it again. What is the question actually asking?
4. Look for keywords. Sometimes questions get very wordy and seem overwhelming. Underline or highlight the important words. Sometimes the question will say "Choose the answers ..." which is a clue that more than one answer is correct. A question on a math test, for example, might use words like "approximately or estimate" which allows you to round and saves a lot of time on unnecessary computation.
5. If a test question gives you information, it's ok to use it later. For example, if you see a diagram of a flower with parts labeled for one question and later a question asks about the job of a part of the flower, you can go back to the image and look at the part they are asking about. If you have a dump sheet, it's ok to jot down this "found" information on your dump sheet too!
6. For multiple-choice tests, cross off any answers that you know for sure are not correct. This will easily help you narrow the information and keep it from feeling overwhelming.
7. Bookmark any questions that you're unsure about. Complete the test and then go back to the bookmarked questions at the end.
8. If you have time to go back and check your answers, do so. However, if you're unsure about an answer always go with your first answer. You're looking more for answers that you accidentally marked incorrectly rather than debating answers that you're unsure of.
9. If you're taking a long test or find yourself anxious, close your eyes, take a deep breath and get back on track. Do worry about what others are doing, how quickly or slowly they are taking the test. Just do your best!
Previously we published an article, Conquer Test Taking Anxiety: 7 Books For Kids That Ease The Pressure which is a great way to start a conversation with your kids about test-taking anxiety and test-taking skills.
