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Overcoming Test Anxiety: A Guide for Parents

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By Philippa Dobree-Carey, From High School to Uni

 
Test anxiety can make exams stressful for students, but using a strategic, consistent approach using effective study techniques can boost their confidence. Here's how to keep calm and prepare effectively.
 
Start Early 
  1. Spread out revision of each subject over 5-10 days.
  2. Create a study plan (days 1-7). Plan daily reviews with a mix of broad overviews, deep dives into complex topics, and revisiting older material. Here's a sample schedule:
    Day 1-2: Big picture review, identify the areas that need more attention.
    Day 3-4: Tackle the more complex topics, using active recall methods.
    Day 5-6: Review both new and older material to maintain memory retention.
    Day 7: Focus on areas of difficulty, refining understanding with active recall.
  3. Organise revision sessions into manageable chunks to improve retention. Use spaced repetition (reviewing at increasing intervals) and active recall (testing yourself) techniques, such as:
    — Write down questions from your notes or textbook and answer them without referring to the source.
    — Practice explaining concepts: Imagine you're teaching the material to someone else and explain it out loud or write down a clear explanation. 
    — Make flashcards with key terms on one side and definitions or explanations on the other. Have the student test themself or have someone them while having breakfast, going to school in the car, travelling on the bus or train, or during break-times.
  4. Practice test-taking techniques on past papers under timed conditions to help develop a time management strategy for the actual exam.
  5. To avoid burnout or being overwhelmed, it is important to balance study time with downtime.
keepcalm
 
The Night before the Exam
— Start studying early on in the evening to avoid cramming late at night and feeling exhausted in the morning. Pulling an all-nighter will not help! 
— Plan the evening backwards: Plan what time is bedtime, and add the pre-sleep routine in order to determine when to end the study session.
— Split revision into two sessions with a break to improve memory retention.
 
Strategies for Success
— Simulate exam conditions with practice questions and flashcards without relying on study materials. Identify any gaps in knowledge and address them before the exam.
— Write a one-page summary of key concepts for each exam subject to review over breakfast.
— Avoid caffeine or energy drinks in the afternoon to avoid sleep disturbances.
— A good night's sleep improves memory and recall.
— Prepare your clothes, breakfast and backpack the night before to minimize stress in the morning.
 
The Role of Parents
Parents have an important role to play in supporting their children during exam time. Here are some tips:
— Avoid putting pressure on your child to get perfect grades. Focus on their efforts and celebrate their progress.
— Help them develop a good study plan and offer advice on time management and organization.
— Make sure they get enough sleep, eat nutritious meals, and stay active.
— Be a good listener: Provide a safe space for your child to express their fears and concerns. 
 
By following these tips, students can approach exams feeling confident and prepared, while parents can effectively support their children's success. Remember that advance preparation interspersed with rest periods, a positive attitude and a supportive environment are key to overcoming exam anxiety.

 

Author bio

Philippa Dobree CareyPhilippa Dobree-Carey is an adept project manager for an international organization in Geneva. Author of the award-winning student guide "From High School to Uni", Philippa successfully steers students step-by-step through the process of packing, preparing for and thriving in the university environment.

With a passion for helping others, Philippa's insightful blogs provide a wealth of practical advice, guiding students (and anxious parents!) with firsthand experience, tips, and insights. As a devoted mother of two university aged children, she understands the concerns of those navigating this transition. This firsthand perspective has driven her to create a library of well-defined, pragmatic resources aimed at facilitating the transition to university life. Discover a treasure trove of invaluable resources by visiting her website www.fromhighschooltouni.com

Philippa photo credit: Timeless Portrait Photography - Amber Roberts Images