Imagine this . . . You have a major exam coming up over cardiac. You have studied your eyes out for weeks, paid attention during every lecture . . . you are even dreaming about the way the heart works. YOU ARE READY!
You get to the testing center, sit down at your desk, and open your exam . . . and . . .
EVERYTHING ESCAPES YOUR MIND!
You can’t even remember that the heart is a PUMP!
How could this be happening . . . you have done everything right!
If this sounds familiar, you might be suffering from test-taking anxiety . . . as I do and so many others.
Test-taking anxiety is a common problem among nursing students, and it can negatively impact your academic performance. I want you to know that YOU ARE NOT ALONE and there is NOTHING TO BE ASHAMED OF!
11 Test-Taking Tips for Nursing Students
I am going to give you 3 tips that helped me with my test-taking anxiety in nursing school. Just remember, not everyone is the same so it is important to find what works best for you.
Practice relaxation techniques:
Before the test, take some time to practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or progressive muscle relaxation. These techniques can help calm your nerves and reduce anxiety.
Every morning before my exams I would wake up an extra hour early. During that time I would go outside (no matter the weather) and go for a nice walk - I would focus on my breathing and try to relax.
Seek support:
Nursing school can be challenging, but it's important to remember that you're not alone. Seek support from your classmates, professors, friends, family members or a mental health professional. You may also find it helpful to join a study group or seek out a mentor who can provide guidance and support.
I had this one study buddy that I started meeting with during nursing school. It really helped me bounce ideas off. Best of all if I didn’t understand a particular topic he most of the time would and vice versa.
11 Test-Taking Tips for Nursing Students
Develop positive self-talk:
Your self-talk can significantly impact your performance during the test. Instead of thinking negatively, tell yourself that you are well-prepared and capable of doing well on the test. Use positive affirmations such as "I am confident in my knowledge," "I have studied hard for this test," "I am calm and focused," etc. This can help boost your confidence and reduce anxiety.
I struggggglllleeddd with this going through school. During one of my last semesters, I stumbled upon a book called, “Mindset” (sidenote I highly recommend this book). It was amazing what a change in my mindset would do. In fact, to this day I continue to use these strategies throughout my daily life.
Most importantly, make sure that you adequately prepare for your exams. Start studying early, attend classes regularly, and take good notes. Ensure you understand the materials and seek clarification if you need it.
Also, practice with past questions, quizzes, and exams to familiarize yourself with the exam format and the types of questions that will be asked.
A little plug, NURSING.com has everything you need to help prepare for your upcoming exam! Check it out HERE
In summary, try some or all of these techniques to help overcome test-taking anxiety in nursing school, practice relaxation techniques, seek support, and develop positive self-talk.
For test-taking strategies download this nursing Cheat Sheet
11 Test-Taking Tips for Nursing Students
You CAN Do This!
Happy Nursing!