5 Ways to Destress Your Test Review

Stress is a constant variable in any test review. This often self-imposed mental strain is typically caused by the pressure to perform well in a high-stakes exam.

If you are PTE Academic exam test taker, there is a huge chance that you experience stress during your PTE training. It is vital that you do not let your exam anxiety sabotage your preparation efforts. Make the most out of your PTE training by following these tips to stave off test-related stress.

• Declutter your study space – A messy study space can put you in the wrong headspace for your review. Avoid compromising your review even before you start by clearing your study space. If you do not need it, get rid of it. Take those dirty coffee mugs to the sink and dispose of those energy bar wrappers properly. Studies show that a tidy work desk enhances your productivity and cognitive performance.  

• Organize your training materials – Aside from cluttered spaces, stress can also stem from disorganized review materials. Avoid misplacing your modules. Make sure that your study space has a special place for everything essential to your PTE training. If you have a lot of training materials, file them in color-coded folders for easier access.  

• Get a study buddy – A study buddy will not only keep you company in your test-induced misery (which can effectively reduce your exam anxiety); he or she can also provide the opportunity for you to practice what you have learned in a test-centered manner.  

• Hug a furry pet – According to studies, cuddling a cat or dog stimulates the production of your feel-good hormones, which consequently reduces your blood pressure and heart rate. Spending time with your beloved pet can also elevate your mood and enhance your study motivation.  

• Divide long topics – While engaging in intensive training for long periods of time can help you link and retain information better, hours-long of demanding review can strain your cognitive faculties. Stave off stress related to mental exhaustion by dividing long lectures. If you really want to finish an extensive lecture in one day, punctuate your review with strategically placed timeouts.  

When reviewing for a life-changing evaluation like the PTE Academic exam, it is imperative that you do not let your test anxiety overwhelm you. Integrate these stress-fighting study strategies into your PTE training to help you maximize your preparation period. 



REFERENCES:

• "9 Ways to De-Stress Before a Big Exam—and Help You Succeed." Wise Words. May 21, 2013. Accessed June 26, 2017. https://scsuwisewords.wordpress.com/2013/05/21/9-ways-to-de-stress-before-a-big-exam-and-help-you-succeed/.
• "15 Ways to Make Studying Less Stressful for Maximum Motivation and Great Results." Oxford Summer School from Oxford Royale Academy. April 17, 2014. Accessed June 26, 2017. https://www.oxford-royale.co.uk/articles/studying-fun.html.
• Bridgestock, Laura. "6 Fun Study Tips (No Really!)." Top Universities. February 2, 2015. Accessed June 26, 2017. https://www.topuniversities.com/blog/6-fun-study-tips-no-really.
• Melnick, Meredith. "20 Scientifically Backed Ways To De-Stress Right Now." The Huffington Post. September 06, 2015. Accessed June 26, 2017. http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2015/09/06/stress-relief-that-works_n_3842511.html.
• Thompson, Patricia. "Five Reasons to Declutter Your Space—and One Reason Not to." Silver Lining Psychology. February 29, 2016. Accessed June 26, 2017. http://silverliningpsychology.com/2016/02/23/5-reasons-to-declutter-your-space-and-1-reason-not-to/.