The document provides tips for students on how to prepare for exams. It recommends maintaining a positive attitude and taking responsibility for one's learning. It suggests practicing relaxation techniques to reduce anxiety, such as deep breathing. It also advises arriving to exams early, getting enough sleep, dressing comfortably, eating a healthy meal, and avoiding excessive caffeine. Students should devise a study schedule in advance and utilize available resources to prepare academically.

1. Test Taking Skills
University of Miami School of Nursing and
Health Studies

2. Be Positive
 Maintaining a positive attitude will help you
succeed.
 Take responsibility for your learning. Avoid
negative talk about the faculty or the exam itself.
 Exams measure performance not your personal
worth.
 Practice positive self- talk.

3. Examples of Affirmations
 “I am an excellent test-taker.”
 “I have a strong knowledge
base in this content.”
 “I will pass this test.”

4. Be Calm
 Being well prepared for an exam will help to
decrease anxiety- Maintain a positive attitude
while preparing for exam is important
 Practice Relaxation
 Breathe deeply, close your eyes and visualize
positive images

5. Be Calm
 Arrive to class early to avoid the stress of being
late
 Avoid the last minute chatter of other students
 Bring everything you will need for the exam such
as your laptop, pencil and calculator if needed.

6. Be Prepared Physically
 Get a good nights sleep prior to the exam. Sleep
deprivation is a leading cause of poor productivity
and performance.
Without a proper amount of sleep your reaction
time, memory and concentration can all be
affected. Don’t cram the night before the exam.

7. Be Prepared Physically
 Choose to wear comfortable, layered clothes
 Eat a healthy but light meal before leaving to take the
exam
 Avoid simple carbohydrates like a donut or danish
 Choose to eat something with protein and fat to
sustain you through the exam; examples
include peanut butter on toast
or an egg sandwich
 Avoid excessive caffeine or other stimulants

8. Be Prepared Academically
 Devise a study schedule in advance of the exam.
Plan to review content area per evening, day, or
weekend for example. Students often feel they
have run out of time.
 Utilize available resources such as your textbook,
on line practice questions, case studies, etc.
 Seek study partners that challenge you. Avoid
study groups that are non productive.
 Refer to study skills presentation for more
information.

9. “Decide what you want,
decide what you are willing
to exchange for it.
Establish your priorities
and go to work.”
H. L. Hunt