suggestions

[Jokenomore40]

Hello everyone,

I am new to this site in hopes someone can give me some direction.

I am currently taking classes at IPFW and want to transfer to Bethel College in Indiana. I have taken and passed all but one of the placement tests, algebra. Last time I took it I scored a 52 to get in you need a 57:confused:.

I was wanting to take it last week but I had so much test anxiety that I couldn't take the test. I am so affraid of not passing and getting in because everyone is counting on me and asking when I am getting in. I am afraid of failing.

How can I take this test again and be sure to pass. Will I ever pass? Will I get in this fall?

[Anne36, LPN]

Have you taken Algebra recently? Do you know the areas you need help in? Check to see if they have a practice test. If you talk to the math tutors at your school they might be able to give you some advice.

[DolceVita, ADN, BSN, RN]

I don't normally suggest a medical intervention but if it is that bad, in the short term, you could discuss a medication with your doctor. However, in the long term you need to get strategies to deal with this because you can't always be taking meds.

Also, google "test anxiety" for strategies yourself. The best way to really deal with test anxiety is to over prepare. Other tips:

Have good nutrition leading up to the exam.

Take a walk to calm yourself down.

Use less coffee not more.

Don't drink alcohol for a couple of days before the exam.

Get a good night's rest the night before the exam (or for the two nights before the exam is even better).

Don't study the morning of the exam.

If people are waiting outside to take the exam and are talking about how scared/nervous they are ...walk away.

Learn some breathing techniques.

Eat breakfast before the exam (or lunch).

I liked these links:

http://www.stetson.edu/administration/academicresources/media/TEST%20ANXIETY%20STRATEGIES.pdf

http://www.ulc.psu.edu/studyskills/test_taking.html

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If you are actually struggling with algebra go to math.com or purplemath.com.

It took me a long time to learn that the key to success in math was doing as many problems as possible and getting them right BEFORE moving on to the harder stuff. If I wasn't getting them right I would go back to the previous level and do problems.

Good luck. I hated test anxiety -- it used to make me want to puke. Thank goodness I don't get it anymore.