Are you stressed out about in-class tests, exams, and quizzes? Don’t worry that’s pretty normal. The pressure is on, you are being timed, and suddenly you can’t remember anything. This is normally the point when you panic write everything you have ever heard about the test subject and forget to proofread. You will probably be OK, but you could do better. You could certainly be calmer. Here is a tip to timing your tests to make sure you get your best ideas down on paper, and you don’t go crazy with stress while you are doing it.

For a 1 hour test you should try and do this:

5-10 minutes

• Read the test questions carefully and underline or highlight all the important words. It is important to answer the question. Don’t answer how, if the question is why.

• Write an essay plan. Do not forget an introduction, paragraphs for contents which answer the question, and a summary/conclusion.

40 minutes

• Write your essay

10 minutes

• Proofread your essay/answers. When you were writing you were focussed on getting ideas on paper. Now you need to make sure the examiner can read it, and it makes sense. Don’t re-write the whole essay, just spell check, and check for grammar mistakes and missing words.

Another big tip if you are very anxious is spend 5 minutes at the beginning of your test staring at the clock on the wall. This is incredibly boring. This is so astoundingly boring you will calm right down after 5 minutes. Maybe you can be super stressed for 3 minutes, but its quite hard to watch a clock for 5 minutes and not want to fall asleep. Great! You are now in the right mood. Those 5 minutes may sound like wasted time but calming down helps you collect your thoughts and get to work. It’s just a test.

There will be other tests, and other chances. Do what you can, then go home and have an ice lolly, life is too short!