Being Cool About Tests

	Do task focusing – think about what and how to prepare
	NOT emotion focusing – don’t engage in self-blame and wishful thinking

	That the test is important (but not overwhelmingly so)
	That the test will be relatively easy
	That you are in control
	That you are confident you can figure it out

	Consider everything you do to prepare as relevant (don’t “dis” yourself)
	Focus on being prepared (rather than on reducing anxiety)

	Don’t make snap judgments; review the whole test (anxiety is worst at the start)
	Don’t think about your test preparation or lack thereof (avoid self-blame)
	Don’t think about studying the wrong things, or forgetting
	Don’t think that you can’t handle the test, or about doing poorly

	That feeling challenged is a good thing
	That you can handle the challenge

	Judge test as important but not overly so
	Judge test as challenging but you’re in control
	Be confident that you can handle problems that may occur
	Do task focusing (pick main ideas in questions, make sure you understand questions, slow down)

	Use the results to reexamine your own effort and strategies