Students facing an important exam usually feel a great deal of stress leading up to the test. Some students even feel a mild or acute anxiety when faced with the prospect of taking an exam over material learned throughout the semester. The key to surviving this hectic time is learning valuable stress-reduction techniques.

So how can it be done? The first and foremost anti-stress method is to focus the mind on more constructive activities such as studying for said exam. Students need to think positively and focus on preparing for the test. In an article by the American School Counselor Association, it is suggested that students logically address all the terrifying "what-if" questions the mind poses. Switching to "neutral" whenever a negative thought starts to loop helps the student relax. Students can also practice a form of meditation by deep breathing, which calms the mind by decisively forcing the unwanted thoughts out.

After students get their mind in gear, the next step is the practical hands-on exam preparation. After all, the one thing that will ensure success on an exam is thoroughly knowing the material. Students also need to make sure they take care of themselves by getting plenty of sleep, exercise and eating well. This is especially important on the day of the test. Students ought to make certain they sleep the night before and make sure they eat a nutritious meal in order to give their brain the energy it needs to function.

If students follows these strategies, they should find themselves in excellent form for taking a test, minus any anxiety during the exam. How-To-Study.com urges students not to worry about other students finishing before they do. Students should take all the time they need to finish the test, even if it is up to the very last minute of the allotted time. In addition, it is recommended that they resist becoming stuck on one question in particular.

Students need to simply accept that, whatever score they get, they will move on and deal with it accordingly. There is no reason to be afraid and suffer test anxiety. By utilizing the above methods to lower their anxiety, students will be able to take the exam and achieve the score they fairly deserve.