Help! Need tips for not burning out while taking a test.

[ShineyNickelRN]

I need some help from my fellow nursing students here. I am in my final semester of nursing school and I am really having trouble while taking my exams. I start out my exams ready and energized but midway through I start doing that clock watching and scrolling through the exam to see how many questions I have left. I most definitely recognize that I am getting tired of taking the test and this is where I am going wrong on my tests.

I met with my instructor to go over my tests because I am struggling this semester. And on every test right when I reach the halfway point is when I really start to mess up. An example is on one of my exams I got every question on the first half right (shockingly), but after that I start missing a ton. I understand that the material is tough and I must be using a lot of my energy concentrating so hard but I hit that wall midway through and I lose all my marbles pretty much. I feel like at that point I just want the exam over so I don't concentrate as much.

I have done research, and I have also asked my instructor for tips on how to avoid this wall. She wasn't much help unfortunately. I really need to be able to get through these tests and not hit this wall especially when it comes time to take the NCLEX. So I could definitely use some tips on how to do this. I am usually given two hours do complete the exams and I usually finish within an hour. So common sense would say to slow down and take my time but I am not terribly patient while testing so I am not sure how to do that. So any advice or tips would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks!!!!

[ISingTheBodyElectric]

I just finished studying for and taking the GRE, which is a really long (3 hours and 40 mins), so I feel you on this. I don't know of any magic bullets, but in taking mock exams I found my scores were much higher when I was taking care of the basics of life, like:

Getting enough sleep! So many people try to function on less than ideal sleep, which works fine for rote tasks but is a disaster for anything requiring sustained concentration. There's a reason the military lets grunts out on patrol with only 4 hours sleep but makes sure air traffic controllers get plenty of rest.

Eating healthy food! Again, basic, but I found that eating a proper, balanced meal before tackling my mock (and real) GRE had a huge effect on my scores.

Getting enough exercise! Regular exercise has a huge effect on the ability of one's body to handle stress. In the days before a big exam it can feel like you don't have time to spare, but even 20 minutes of cardio can make a huge difference.

Be mindful of depression! Remember that one of the hallmarks of depression is difficulty concentrating. Make sure you're getting out into the sunshine and spending quality time with those you love.

Sorry if this all seems simplistic, but taking care of this basic stuff made a huge difference for me on my GRE, so I'm hoping it can help you on your exams.

[SilleLu]

Since you are not pressed for time, I'd suggest half way through the test turn your test over, put down your pencil and close your eyes for 2-5 minutes. Think of something else, clear your mind, meditate, sing a song in your head, cleansing breaths, etc. Then start the second half.

[nursling2013]

I've found that I need to take a mental break at least once or twice to gain my clarity. Close your eyes, deep breathe, play a song in your head. Get up and go to the bathroom; if you have proctors like I do at my school, take them with you PROUDLY. Their job is to escort you and do not feel silly for taking advantage of such a ridiculous thing. Don't worry about the students around you -- anything you do, be it mid-test meditation or an extra long bathroom break -- is for your mental clarity and benefit. Also, make sure you are hydrating and eating well before exams, and of course, getting enough sleep.

Good luck!

[cocoa_puff]

My suggestion is when you get to the half way point, take a moment and breathe! If your instructors let you have food during the test, bring a little candy (I recommend mini snickers or peppermint patties!) because that will give your brain some glucose. Your brain burns a lot of energy when you're taking a test, so maybe you just need a refuel! And eating healthy, drinking water, and getting enough sleep before the exam is great advice too! :) Good Luck!