Study Tips and Tricks

Sometimes as family members and supporters we may not know where to begin with guiding our students when they are struggling academically. Below are some resources you can provide your students to assist them throughout their academic journey.

Reduce Test Anxiety

• There are two types of Test Anxiety:
  • “Anticipatory Anxiety” which is when you feel distress while studying or thinking about the test
  • “Situational Anxiety” which occurs while you are taking the test
• Some anxiety is natural, but too much can cause physical distress, emotional upset, and difficulties in concentrating
• Anxiety occurs in a wave, so it will increase, come to a peak, and then naturally subside
• Test Anxiety can come from
  • The fear of not living up to the expectations of important people in your life
  • Believing grades are an estimation of your personal worth
  • Placing too much emphasis on a single test
  • Giving into guilt feelings or anxiety as a result of inadequate preparations for the test
  • Feeling helpless, believing that you have no control over your performance or grades

Short Term Techniques

• Tensing & Differential Method
  • Push your feet into the floor while pulling up on the underside of the chair you are sitting on. Hold for 5 seconds then release for 5 seconds
• Palming Method
  • Rest your palms over your eyes and imagine a relaxing scene
• Deep Breathing

Long Term Technique

• Negative Self-Talk
  • Avoid self-critical or self-deflating talk
  • Avoid “I can’t do this” or “I’m going to fail” or “I’m not smart enough
• Positive Self-Talk
  • Use encouraging and empowering statements
  • Say “I am prepared for this” or “I can handle challenges” or “I’ll do my best”