Practice What You Have Learned
Apply what you have learned about managing test anxiety by responding to the following scenario(1):
As Brian begins his final exam in English, he thinks, "I have to do well on this test to keep my ‘B’ average." As he scans the first essay question on Rappaccini’s Daughter, he realizes that he only vaguely remembers reading it. All that Brian can remember is that it is a short story by Nathaniel Hawthorne. He begins to think: "There’s no way I can answer this question and it’s worth 25 points! I’ll flunk the test if I can’t answer this question! Brian feels himself starting to panic; his mind goes blank; he can’t focus or recall anything he’s studied.
1. What caused Brian’s anxiety?
2. T F Brian’s thoughts are self-defeating.
3. Choose two test anxiety management techniques that you would advise Brian to use in this situation.
| Challenge self-defeating thoughts | Imagery and visualization |
| Thought-stopping | Muscle relaxation |
| Recognize your control | Avoid stress triggers |
| Deep breathing | Review techniques |
4. How would Brian use these techniques?
For additional information or assistance with test anxiety, contact the Academic Resource Center or Counseling Center.
(1) Adapted from Self-Management for College Students: The ABC approach