If the thought of taking a test causes you alarm, you are not alone. Many students suffer from test-taking anxiety. It's normal to feel apprehension as test time time approaches. Here are five important strategies to help build success at school and test time.

1. Be there!
Don't miss school unless you are sick or have other important activities.

2. Pay Attention!
Listen to your teachers when they are presenting information and giving you assignments. Write down your assignments.

3. Ask for Help!
If you don't understand something, ask your teacher to explain it. You are not alone. It's likely that that others have the same question. Don't wait until the the day before a test to get extra help.

4. Turn in Your Work on Time!
Having late assignments pile up in front of you just adds stress. Talk to your teachers if you get behind ask them to help you come up with a plan for catching up.

5. Talk to an Adult!
If you are worried about something, talk to your parent or guardian. There are many people at school who would discuss your problems with you that seem too big to handle on your own.

5 WAYS TO DO WELL ON YOUR TEST:

1. Follow test directions carefully
2. Read all of your answers before you choose one.
3. If you don't know an answer, make the best guess you can.
4. Fill in the test bubbles completely.
5. Stay relaxed-take some deep breaths.

Preparation:Develop good study habits, spread studying over several days. Ask for help when needed; eat good foods,get adequate rest and exercise to build energy;attend class regularly and complete assignments on time and take practice tests.

Keep a Positive Attitude: develop reasonable expectations;do not allow your grades to become dependent on the outcome of one exam, encourage yourself.

Relax: Deep breathing exercises,visualization and muscle relaxation techniques can help increase focus and concentration. Make sure you have everything you need for the test.

Learn Good Test Taking Skills: Don't panic if you cannot remember something right away. Answer questions you know well first and then go back to the other ones.Read questions and directions before you begin;outline essays before you write;keep short answers short and don't spend alot of time reviewing answers.