Test Anxiety — Managing Your Brain

Test anxiety is real and costs real points.

Before the test:

1. Prepare thoroughly — confidence comes from preparation

2. Simulate test conditions during practice (timed, no distractions)

3. Visualize yourself calmly working through questions

4. Remember: you can retake the SAT. This is not your only chance.

During the test:

1. Panicky? Close your eyes. Three slow breaths (5 seconds in, 5 out).

2. Skip the hard question. Do an easy one. Build momentum.

3. Tell yourself: "I prepared. I know this material."

4. Focus on one question at a time — not the whole test.

Perspective: The SAT is important but not life-defining. Many successful people had mediocre scores. Many colleges are test-optional. Do your best and move forward.

Reference:

Wikipedia: Test Anxiety

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Test_anxiety