Test-taking tip #1: Prepare early for the big ones.
That's right -- SAT, ACT, AP, etc. -- are the big ones. "It is extremely important to start taking standardized tests early," cautions Elizabeth Reynolds, a graduate of Edgewood High School (Madison, WI). "This method alleviates stress because if you're unhappy with a score, it can easily be fixed by retaking the test. Starting early also allows you to get a better idea of what standardized tests are like, and you can use that knowledge in preparing for future tests."

Test-taking tip #2: Face your fears.
Trust us -- your friends won't think you're lame if you admit to having a nightmare about your physics midterm. "Don't be afraid to share your anxiety with someone else," assures Judith N. Meyers, author of "The Secrets of Taking Any Test" (Learning Express, 2000). "Sometimes simply talking about any fear makes it less fearful. Vent a little to a friend or a family member who is a good listener."

Test-taking tip #3: Be positive.
"Practice putting yourself in a positive attitude with positive thoughts," says Donald Dufford, Ph.D., director of Anxiety Treatment Services in San Jose, CA. In other words, go into a test believing you will do well. "It's important to believe in your knowledge and your ability," adds Elizabeth. "Don't ever doubt either one. That will only lead to hesitancy and second-guessing. Go with your gut instinct -- it's usually right."

Test-taking tip #4: Practice self-soothing.
Dr. Suchman believes students need to talk themselves down from moments of anxiety, which can be done by putting tests into perspective. Any time you feel rattled, remember Dr. Suchman's recommendation: "Take a short break. Breathe deeply, slow down. Then talk to yourself. It's only one test, right? Just one test. You won't die. The world won't end if you don't know the answer."

Test-taking tip #5: Chill out.
Ada P. Kahn, Ph.D. and author of many stress-related books, including "Stress A-Z: A Sourcebook for Facing Everyday Challenges" (Facts on File, Inc., 1999), encourages students to take a break once in a while.

"Learning how to relax takes long-range planning," says Dr. Kahn. "Start early to develop techniques that will serve you later on in life. I find that playing music is relaxing. Others relax doing meditation or yoga. Find something that you enjoy doing, learn about it, and practice it regularly. Then you can relax and feel in control of any situation."

Test-taking tip #6: Stay in shape.
"It's important to be in good physical condition," adds Dr. Kahn. After all, the body and brain are connected. "Get the right amount of sleep, eat well, and have a nutritious breakfast before tests; exercise on a regular basis, avoid caffeine, and don't smoke."

Test-taking tip #7: Prepare for a smooth test day.
Kamara Colson, a graduate of Homestead High School (Sunnyvale, CA), urges you to come equipped on test day. "Even though you gather everything you need before the test -- [registration] ticket, ID, calculator, pencils, watch -- double-check to make sure it's all there before you leave."

If you're taking an exam at an unfamiliar school, it may help to check out the school, parking area, and test room a few days before the test. On test day, arrive early, with a water bottle and a small, high-energy snack (not too much sugar!) in hand.

Test-taking tip #8: "Exercise" during the test.
"During tests, sometimes I move my shoulders up and down, then circle my neck, or move it side to side. It also helps to wiggle my fingers," adds Kamara. Those are good moves, say experts. Discreetly moving parts of your body, such as the neck, fingers, or even toes, can release built-up tension.

Test-taking tip #9: Make good use of test breaks.
Long tests are designed to allow test takers at least two short (five-minute) breaks. Using this time wisely will help your body relax. Stand up, walk around, get some fresh air, or eat a small snack. "And avoid talking about the test," says Kamara. "It helps to joke around."

Test-taking tip #10: Remember that you are in control.
"Remember that you control the test -- not vice versa," says Ruth Gurewitz, a graduate of Lincoln High School (Lincoln, NE). "If you are calm and take the test with confidence, you will do much better than if you take it with nervous jitters."

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