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The end of the semester is on the horizon, and your upcoming exam date looms closer and closer. Staying calm and relaxed before your test may seem like a tall order, but it’s not as impossible as you may think. While you can’t predict what questions will be on your exam, you can change your attitude, habits, and mindset. We’ve put together lots of tips and tricks to help you stay calm and collected before the big day arrives.

1

Picture a good outcome.

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  1. Imagine yourself acing the exam and doing well. Don’t picture any worst-case scenarios. Picture yourself getting a great grade on your exam, or reaching a specific GPA by the end of the semester. Chances are, you aren’t going to flunk out of school or get a failing grade on your test. Instead, think about all the positive things that could happen![1]
    • For example, you might hang up a test with high marks in your room, so you can really visualize your goal.
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5

Do relaxing yoga poses.

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  1. Find a flat, open area where you can sit comfortably. Then, fold your legs inward, arranging your left foot on top of your right thigh and your right ankle over your left thigh. Take several deep breaths, and then switch your legs around.[5]
    • Reclined eagle, eye-of-the-needle, and cow face are some other relaxing poses you can try.
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7

Try aromatherapy.

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  1. Use a traditional diffuser, or infuse aromatherapy necklaces, keychains, and bracelets with the oil. You can also try aromatherapy through body oil, or with an aroma stick.[7]
    • Aroma sticks are also known as essential oil inhalers. You can find this and other aromatherapy accessories online, or from specialty stores.
    • Lemon, bergamot, ylang ylang, clary sage, and jasmine oils are other great options for stress relief.[8]
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11

Eat breakfast.

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  1. According to health experts, foods like muesli, whole rolled porridge oats, and a slice or 2 of whole-grain bread are great breakfast options. Add some yogurt, milk, or eggs into the mix as well—these protein-rich foods will help you stay full and satisfied throughout your exam.[13]
    • You might enjoy some scrambled eggs on toast, or a cup of yogurt with fruit sliced overtop.[14]
    • A bowl of oatmeal with sliced fruit and nuts is a great option, as well as a smoked salmon omelette.
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13

Think positive thoughts.

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How Can I Cope With Test-Taking Anxiety?


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  • This might be weird, but make sure to brush your teeth before going to the exam. You won't believe how much comfort a good mouth hygiene will bring you.
  • If you're stressed, talk to a loved one with a positive attitude for encouragement.
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About This Article

Alexander Ruiz, M.Ed.
Co-authored by:
Test Prep Instructor
This article was co-authored by Alexander Ruiz, M.Ed. and by wikiHow staff writer, Janice Tieperman. Alexander Ruiz is an Educational Consultant and the Educational Director of Link Educational Institute, a tutoring business based in Claremont, California that provides customizable educational plans, subject and test prep tutoring, and college application consulting. With over a decade and a half of experience in the education industry, Alexander coaches students to increase their self-awareness and emotional intelligence while achieving skills and the goal of achieving skills and higher education. He holds a BA in Psychology from Florida International University and an MA in Education from Georgia Southern University. This article has been viewed 320,601 times.
21 votes - 90%
Co-authors: 34
Updated: July 3, 2024
Views: 320,601

Medical Disclaimer

The content of this article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, examination, diagnosis, or treatment. You should always contact your doctor or other qualified healthcare professional before starting, changing, or stopping any kind of health treatment.

Article SummaryX

To relax before a final exam in college, try listening to some calming music or reading a book. The day before your test, make sure to eat and drink well so you don’t have trouble sleeping at night. Stay away from spicy and greasy foods as well as alcohol, which can both disrupt your sleep, and drink plenty of water. Another way you can make sure to get a good night’s rest is to stop working at least 30 minutes before going to bed. Also, avoid blue light from screens like your phone and TV at least 2 to 3 hours before sleeping. For more tips from our co-author, including how to stay in control the day of the exam, read on!

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Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 320,601 times.

Reader Success Stories

  • Akerele Feyisayo

    Akerele Feyisayo

    Aug 31, 2016

    "It has taught techniques that I can use to avoid exam tension, like taking deep breaths, relaxing the day before,..." more
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