How to deal with test anxiety on ACT

The ACT exam is a significant milestone for many high school students, often serving as a crucial factor in college admissions. 

However, the pressure and stress of the test can lead to debilitating anxiety, hindering their performance for some people. 

If you find yourself overwhelmed by test anxiety, fear not. 

Strategies that can effectively manage test anxiety on ACT 

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1. Understand Test Anxiety: 

Recognizing and understanding your feelings of anxiety is the first step to overcoming them. 

Test anxiety is a natural response to the pressure of performing well on an exam. 

It can manifest as physical symptoms such as sweaty palms, a racing heart, or mental symptoms like difficulty concentrating or negative thoughts. 

Knowing that you're not alone in experiencing these feelings can help alleviate some of the stress.

2. Prepare Thoroughly: 

One of the most effective ways to combat test anxiety is through thorough preparation. 

Develop a study plan that allows you to cover all the content areas of the test, including English, Math, Reading, and Science. 

Practice regularly with official practice tests to familiarize yourself with the format and types of questions you will encounter on the exam. 

The more prepared you feel, the more confident you will be on test day.

3. Practice Relaxation Techniques: 

Learning relaxation techniques can help calm your nerves and reduce anxiety both during your study sessions and on test day. 

Techniques such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, or visualization can help relax your body and mind, enabling you to focus more effectively. 

Incorporate these techniques into your daily routine to build resilience against test anxiety.

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4. Stay Healthy: 

Your physical health plays a significant role in your ability to manage stress and anxiety. 

Make sure to prioritize your well-being in the days leading up to the exam. 

Get plenty of sleep, eat nutritious meals, and engage in regular exercise to keep your body and mind in top condition. 

Avoid caffeine and sugary foods, as they can exacerbate feelings of anxiety.

5. Develop Positive Self-Talk: 

Replace negative self-talk with positive affirmations to boost your confidence and self-esteem. 

Remind yourself of your strengths and past successes, and visualize yourself performing well on the ACT. 

Focus on the process rather than the outcome, and trust in your ability to perform to the best of your ability. 

Repeat positive affirmations such as 'I am prepared, I can do this, and I am in control' to counteract feelings of doubt and anxiety.



6. Arrive Early and Stay Calm: 

On the day of the exam, give yourself plenty of time to arrive at the testing center early. 

Rushing can increase stress levels and make anxiety worse. 

Take some time to relax and center yourself before the exam begins. 

Avoid discussing the test with other students, as this can heighten anxiety. 

Instead, focus on your breathing and use relaxation techniques to stay calm and centered.




7. Focus on the Task at Hand: 

During the exam, concentrate on each question one at a time. 

Don't dwell on questions you find difficult or time-consuming. 

Instead, skip them and come back to them later if time allows. 

Stay focused on the present moment and trust in the strategies and techniques you have learned during your preparation. 

Remember that it's okay to feel nervous, but don't let anxiety dictate your performance.



8. Seek Support if Needed: 

If your test anxiety is severe and significantly impacting your ability to perform on the ACT, don't hesitate to seek support from a teacher, counselor, or mental health professional. 

They can provide additional strategies and resources to help you manage your anxiety and succeed on the exam. 

Remember, it's okay to ask for help when you need it.