1. Review your performance on previous tests. Note any specific problems you had, and conscientiously work on those.

2. Arrive in plenty of time for the test. Make a note in advance of what you will need and lay those items out the night before the test (pens, erasers, ID etc)

3. Make sure you don’t drink too much just before you set the test. Also, go to the washroom immediately before you enter the examination room.

4. Eat a protein meal before taking the test as protein breaks down more slowly than carbohydrates so that should stave off any hunger pangs. However, if you’re allowed to take a snack, like a museli bar, into the examination room then it’s a good idea to do so.  
5. Dress in loose comfortable clothes. You don’t want to be too hot or cold as that will distract you from your work. Also, choose a seat and location where you feel you will be comfortable, and will not be distracted.

6. Try to relax. Think confident and positive thoughts. Take some deep breaths as you enter the room (and avoid other students who you know will be stressed as stress can be contagious in test situations.)

7. Read through the instructions slowly and carefully. Try to avoid careless errors.

8. If you think you’ll have plenty of time for the test, begin by quickly scanning over the question before you attempt to work on the answers.
9. Be strategic in the way you answer the questions. Do the easy ones first as that will increase your confidence. After that, move on to the questions that assign the most points. On tests with essay questions, plan what you will write before you start writing. Make an outline and sequence the order of your paragraphs.

10. If you have time at the end of the test, go back over the paper and review your answers. Make sure you have answered ALL the questions, and have done so correctly. Don’t forget to turn over the last page to make sure you haven’t left out any questions.