Managing CAT Stress
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Reach the examination venue 20
minutes before the prescribed time - Arriving for the test with five minutes
to spare only and finding that the venue is a labyrinth is a
guaranteed stress-inducing nightmare. To avoid last minute panic, reach the test
venue at least 20 minutes before the prescribed time.
Keep a cushion time for
traveling exigencies - Murphy's Law does operate when we least want it to.
So be prepared for any exigencies that can occur during your commuting from
home/hostel till the venue.
During the
Exam
DO read the entire test
through before beginning - Glance at all the sections and the different
types of questions. This would help you prioritize areas and complete sections
in the order that best suits you. Start with an area in which you feel
confident. These steps will increase your sense of control.
DO skip immediately to another
question or section if you're drawing a complete blank - Often just reading
through the other questions will jog your memory or give you ideas about
handling a difficult part of the test.
DO keep track of time and
practice efficient time-management skills - Don't sacrifice valuable time on
less-demanding areas or on single questions. Recognize what sections or
questions will be most time-consuming and plan accordingly. And do keep in mind
that all sections must be attempted.
DO try to keep a positive
attitude - If you experience overwhelming stress, try closing your eyes and
focusing on your breathing for a few seconds. Take a few slow, deep breaths.
Tensing and then relaxing your muscles while seated can also help break the
tension cycle.
While almost all test-takers admit to having a few
exam-day jitters, some people experience severe and debilitating test anxiety
that can negatively affect exam performance. No matter
where you fall on the exam stress scale, you can use these dos and don'ts to
help get your exam stress under control! Wishing you a happy and stress-free
test-taking!
