Test-Taking: The 411

According to Google, the definition of test is “a procedure intended to establish the quality, performance or reliability of something, especially before it is taken into widespread use.” I prefer to define the term as “printed or digital stress.” The process of preparing for and taking a test is rarely fun, unless it’s open-note. However, there are steps you can take to limit test anxiety and ensure you make the best grade possible.

By this point, you probably already know that cramming for a test is about on par with spitting in your professor’s face. Maybe it’s not that bad, but cramming is only good for making a grade, not learning the material. Sure, you might ace the test, but I doubt you’ll remember any of the material a week later. Studies have shown time and time again that in order for students to accurately memorize and learn the material long-term, they need to be exposed to it multiple times over a longer period of time.

So, there isn’t an alternative to taking notes and study sessions. In fact, good test taking skills start in the classroom. If you aren’t taking notes and paying attention in class, don’t expect to make a good grade. Taking notes essentially forces you to pay attention to the material during the lecture. What’s more, you’ll actually have something to study rather than having to read an entire chapter of your textbook the night before the exam. For more information on good note-taking skills, check out my blog “Note-Taking: The 411.”

Finally, in order to really show that test who’s boss, you need to take care of yourself. Make sure you’re getting 7-9 hours of sleep the night before the test. Eat a healthy, fulfilling breakfast the morning of, and drink plenty of water to ensure your mind and body have the fuel to carry you through. Before the test, take slow, deep breaths and focus your mind on the task at hand in order to calm your nerves. The true cure to test anxiety is proper preparation. If you’re actually prepared, anxiety shouldn’t be too much of an issue, although it may always be there.

The bottom line is that a good test grade doesn’t just appear out of thin air. If you’re tired of making bad grades, you need to reevaluate how you’re preparing for those tests. If you didn’t take notes, didn’t study, and crammed the night before the test, don’t be surprised when it doesn’t turn out like you hoped. As Albert Einstein once said, “Insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results.”

Golden Eagles on Campus: The Eyes of Southern Miss
Vol. 1- Mary Katherine Thomas

Danny caught up with Southern Miss student, Mary Katherine Thomas, to discuss connections, success and her future plans after graduation!

By Danny Holland - Danny is a senior public relations and advertising major and the Communications Intern for the Division of Student Affairs at The University of Southern Mississippi.