Test anxiety is a type of performance anxiety where people experience extreme distress and anxiety during testing situations. It has physical, emotional, and mental/cognitive components. Common causes include poor study habits, past poor performance, and underlying anxiety problems. People who worry a lot or are perfectionists are more likely to experience test anxiety. To manage it, students can prepare effectively, spread studying over time instead of cramming, practice tests, exercise, and relax after tests instead of immediately studying for the next one.