Suggest two things that one can do before writing the test or examination to reduce anxiety or stress
Study and prepare. But here is some stuff that helps while taking a test.
Advice to the exam-lorn ("test wiseness")
I. Answer easy items first. If have to think about any question after reading for more than a minute, move on.
A. Can get Qs you are sure of correct within the time limit. Spending too much time on hard questions, might keep you from completing easier items later in the test.
B. Can form associations on later items that might help with previous ones.
C. Can break negative sets/fixations. Sometimes we develop ways of looking at something that interferes with our solving a problem. Information in later questions might help us view a previous question in a different light.
II. With multiple choice, treat each alternative as a T-F question. If you don't know right answer, before guessing, eliminate wrong alternatives. This increases the chances of your guess being correct.
III. If first hunch is relatively sure, keep it. But if you are unsure or misread Q, don't hesitate to change first hunch.
IV. Carefully read items and directions. (In one high school experiment, the test directions indicated to just sign the paper and turn it in. Many students failed to read the directions and waded through the whole test.)
V. Answer Q asked. An alternative may have a true statement, but it does not answer the question asked.
VI. If no penalty for guessing, answer all Qs.
VII. Multiple choice alternatives with terms like "always" and "never" are usually wrong.
Yes
Before writing a test or examination, there are several strategies you can use to reduce anxiety or stress. Here are two suggestions:
1. Prepare in Advance: One of the most effective ways to reduce test-related stress is to adequately prepare for the exam. Start studying well in advance, create a study schedule, and break down the material into manageable chunks. This will help you feel more confident and less overwhelmed. Review your notes, textbooks, and any other relevant resources. Practice solving sample questions or previous exams to familiarize yourself with the format and identify areas where you need more improvement. By preparing thoroughly, you will feel more in control and less anxious on the day of the test.
2. Practice Relaxation Techniques: Incorporating relaxation techniques into your study routine can significantly reduce anxiety. Deep breathing exercises, meditation, and progressive muscle relaxation can help calm your mind and body. Start by finding a quiet and comfortable space where you can sit or lie down. Close your eyes and take slow, deep breaths, focusing on your inhales and exhales. Alternatively, try progressive muscle relaxation by tensing and then relaxing each muscle group in your body, starting from your toes and moving upward. Experiment with different techniques to find what works best for you. Regular practice of these techniques leading up to the test can help you stay calm and centered during the exam.
Remember, everyone's experience with anxiety and stress is different, so it's important to find what strategies work best for you personally. It may take some experimentation to discover the techniques that help you feel more relaxed and focused.