It’s perfectly normal to feel some stress when it comes to writing the exam. According to Intelligent.com, the following tips may guide you through exam prep and the exam itself.
1: Read the exam questions closely: Take a moment to read over the directions.
2: Survey the test before beginning: Glance over the entire test and form a plan for how you will spend your time. You do not need to closely inspect every question, but your plan may be different for a test with fifteen multiple-choice questions and six essay questions versus a test with ninety multiple-choice questions and one essay.
3: Read every question closely: Sometimes teachers will write questions that are deliberately reversed from what you might expect in order to challenge you.
4: Prioritize how you will answer questions: You don’t have to answer the test questions in order. Start with the easiest questions that you can answer quickly.
5: Look for keywords in essay questions: Read the question thoroughly and be sure you understand the specific topic, as well as what you are supposed to “do” with your essay.
6: Don’t get distracted during the test: Don’t feel pressured if other students complete the exam quickly and leave early; some students take exams quickly, and this has little bearing on their actual performance on those tests.
7: Remember to breathe: If at any time during the test you feel yourself panicking or stressing out, put down your pencil and take several long, deep breaths. Imagine yourself relaxing and visualise a calm image. This will help clear your mind and fill your blood with oxygen.