Managing Anxiety
Physical danger, uncertainty, and loss of control are primary causes of that uncomfortable feeling we call anxiety. In large doses it impairs concentration and memory, disrupts sleep, and may cause some students to "freeze" when taking exams. However, anxiety also motivates people to wear seatbelts, quit smoking, control spending, drive defensively, and prepare for tests. Like an untamed horse, the trick is to learn to manage anxiety and make it work for you, not against you. Consider doing the following:

Set Realistic Goals
Anxiety, disappointment, even depression are potential consequences of setting unrealistically high goals. It's good to aim high, but people who achieve lofty goals typically have realistic long term plans for doing so. They also understand that success comes in increments. These principles hold true for admissions exams as well. With preparation, raising your score by 100 to 200 points is achievable and a goal worth the effort. Such an increase can have a significant impact on your chances of acceptance. However, greater increases are achieved by very few. Don't set yourself up for failure or disappointment. Most of us don't play like Mozart after three months of piano lessons.

Develop a Study Plan
You can lessen anxiety and achieve a measure of control by developing a study plan. Set up a schedule that includes a series of relatively short sessions, perhaps an hour or so in length, spread throughout the week. Try your best to stick to your plan but don't worry if at times you miss a session. Life happens; occasionally you'll have to and should make adjustments. Observe the time limits you set for each session. Don't study past the time limit and reward yourself at the end of each week for a job well done. Take your Q Cards wherever you go.

Don't study the day before the exam. Spend a little time packing pencils, calculator (with new batteries) and other supplies you will need for the test. Also, make sure you know the location and travel time to the test site. It's very important that you be there on time. After these tasks are accomplished, now is the time to relax, wind down, and engage in activities that bear no relation to the exam. Have some fun but don't stay out late. Avoid caffeinated drinks, set your alarm, go to bed at a reasonable hour, get a good night's sleep, and dream of success.

Seek Help
If you often feel on edge, have a hard time relaxing, experience a lot of self-defeating thoughts, tend to panic during exams, etc., then you should consider additional steps to deal with your anxiety. Depending on your needs, self-help books may do the trick. The publications The Relaxation and Stress Reduction Workbook and Taking the Anxiety Out of Out of Taking Tests provide instruction in a variety of simple but effective anxiety reduction and management techniques. If this doesn't prove effective, consider teaming up with a psychologist or other licensed professional who can teach you these skills. Such skills provide lifetime benefits.

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