5 Ways to Beat Test Prep Stress
You have the big test coming up next month, and every time you sit down to study you get nervous. So nervous, in fact, that it’s hard to focus on the material. It’s just so overwhelming! While a little stress actually helps you perform better, too much anxiety surrounding test prep isn’t helpful for anyone.
Here are a few foolproof methods to help alleviate stress during the test prep process. Reduce anxiety and tackle this challenge head-on. You got this!
1. Have a plan for your practice.
The best way to lower anxiety is to have a clear plan for the weeks or months leading up to the test. Know your starting point by taking a diagnostic ISEE or SSAT practice test. Then, based on your initial score, make a study plan. Do you need to spend an hour a day? An hour three times a week? Make a schedule for your practice and stick to it.
2. Know your goal.
Another great way to relieve some stress is to know your target score. The ISEE and SSAT are hard tests, and schools have widely differing score expectations for acceptance. For some schools, you may need to reach the 50th-60th percentile range, while others may require higher scores. To find out just how much you need to improve (or to see if you’re already on track), check in with the schools that you are applying to—many admissions departments will provide some guidance as to how much your test scores matter. (We also have ISEE and SSAT target scores, based on the thousands of students who’ve used our platform to prepare).
3. Take breaks.
Since studies show that retention of material decreases after 45 minutes, why not take breaks? Break your studying up into smaller chunks, and take time to do things you love. Go outside! Call a friend on the phone! Reward yourself with a favorite show or game! You’re doing a great job.
4. Get help from an expert.
Remember—you don’t have to do this alone. At Test Innovators, test prep experts are waiting to help you come up with a preparation plan. We also offer one-on-one SSAT and ISEE tutoring, which can be a great option for test-takers with anxiety. Tutors offer concrete strategies and tips, along with the confidence-building reassurances that are crucial for many students.
5. Slow and steady!
Ultimately, one of the most important things for reducing test-prep anxiety is to take your time. Choose your test dates well in advance, and start researching and preparing for the test the summer before you’ll take it. Start learning vocabulary early, and take practice tests for several months. That way, you will feel prepared, confident, and experienced by the time the test rolls around!
