Test Anxiety 101
What is test anxiety?
Feeling nervous, worried, or stressed before or during a test.
True or False: Feeling nervous means you care.
True — it means you want to do your best!
How much sleep should you try to get the night before a test?
8–9 hours.
What should you do if you get stuck on a test question?
Skip it and come back later.
Name two body signs of test anxiety.
Racing thoughts, upset stomach, sweaty hands, shaky, can’t focus, or feeling like your brain froze
What is one helpful thought you can tell yourself before a test?
“This is just one test.” / “I’ve prepared for this.” / “I can handle nervous feelings.”
Name two good times to try deep breathing.
Before the test, during the test if nervous, before bed the night before.
What’s a test-taking tip that helps if you’re feeling rushed?
Watch your time, but don’t panic — stay steady.
Why does test anxiety make it hard to remember things you studied?
Anxiety blocks your brain from accessing information because it’s focused on stress.
Why does naming your feelings help calm you down?
It helps your brain feel more in control and safe.
What are the three steps in the “4-4-4” deep breathing method?
Inhale for 4, hold for 4, exhale for 4.
What should you do if you freeze during a test?
Take a deep breath, pause, and restart.