Updated Content 2/4/2026
Completing an exam can be challenging for many people. Some students struggle to memorize large amounts of information, while others may experience stress, anxiety, or even self-doubt when faced with a test. These obstacles can make it difficult to focus, recall information, or perform at your best.
Since exams can be such a significant source of stress, having effective strategies in place can make a big difference. That’s why Boardman Training Center (BTC) compiled our top 20 test-taking tips to help you approach your next exam with confidence and clarity. Whether you’re looking for ways to improve your study habits, reduce anxiety, or tackle different types of questions more effectively, these tips are designed to support you every step of the way.
Keep reading to discover practical strategies that can help you prepare smarter, stay calm, and achieve the results you’re aiming for on your next exam!
Tip #1: Arrange Study Sessions
Participate in study sessions to go over the material for your exam. This helps ensure you have enough time to study and better understand and retain the information.
Tip #2: Use Various Study Methods
Try using a variety of study methods, such as working through practice problems, using flashcards, reviewing your notes, reading the material, using visual aids, and teaching the subject to someone else.
Tip #3: Choose a Quiet Location to Study
Studying in a distraction-free environment, such as a library or a quiet space at home, is best. Studying can be hard when you are constantly interrupted or distracted.
Tip #4: Join a Study Group or Find a Study Buddy
Studying with others can make test prep more effective. If possible, team up with one or more fellow students preparing for the same exam so you can support, motivate, and learn from each other.
Tip #5: Lower Your Test Anxiety
Relaxation techniques such as breathing exercises, positive thinking, meditation, or picturing your favorite places can help calm you before an exam. Studying for an exam is much harder when you are stressed out.
Tip #6: Use Positive Affirmations
Picture yourself succeeding on the exam, and repeat affirmations such as “I am calm and ready” or “I will do my best on this test” to boost your confidence and focus.
Tip #7: Get Plenty of Sleep
You want to be well-rested and refreshed, so you’re ready to do your best. Without enough sleep, we don’t think as clearly, so it’s critical to get enough sleep before a test.
Tip #8: Eat a Healthy Meal
To have the energy you need to stay focused, you’ll also need to eat a well-balanced, nutritious meal. Don’t eat too much sugar, as this can cause an energy crash, which you don’t want to happen during your exam.
Tip #9: Keep Yourself Hydrated
Stay hydrated on exam day. Water is essential for your body to function properly, and not drinking enough can lead to headaches or fatigue, things you definitely don’t want during a test.
Tip #10: Arrive at Your Test on Time or Early
Get to your test on time or, if you can, a little early. It gives you a chance to relax, clear your mind, and ask any last-minute questions before you begin.
Tip #11: Bring the Required Supplies
Show up prepared with any materials you may need during the exam. Some necessary items could be a pencil, paper for essays or problems, a calculator, or class notes.
Tip #12: Have a Positive Attitude
Keep a positive mindset before, during, and after your exam. Staying optimistic can help you feel more relaxed, reduce test anxiety, and boost your confidence.
Tip #13: Review the Directions Carefully
Read and re-read each question before you begin to answer it. It is easy to choose the wrong answer if you don’t understand the directions clearly.
Tip #14: Quickly Review the Exam Before Starting
Knowing how much time you will need to do each question helps you manage your time more effectively and allocate enough time to answer all the questions on the exam.
Tip #15: Skip Over Tough Questions
Come back to the more difficult questions after you have completed the rest of the exam. Taking too much time on the hard questions as you go may not give you an adequate amount of time to finish the entire exam.
Tip #16: Don’t Allow Yourself to Get Frustrated
As you complete your test, don’t get overwhelmed, even if you don’t know the answers or get confused. When we are frustrated, it’s hard to think clearly, which can keep us from doing our best.
Tip #17: Select the Answer That Makes Logical Sense
If you’re unsure of a question, make your best educated guess. Attempting an answer is always better than leaving it blank.
Tip #18: Take Time to Check Your Answers
After finishing your exam, go back and double-check your work. This helps ensure you answered all questions correctly and didn’t miss anything.
Tip #19: Reward Yourself After Your Exam
Take time to relax and unwind once your exam is over. Whether it’s watching your favorite show, taking a walk in nature, or hanging out with friends, doing something enjoyable helps relieve stress.
Tip #20: Review Your Test Results
When you receive your exam back, review your answers carefully. Reflect on what strategies worked well and identify areas for improvement. This insight will help you study more effectively for your next test.
Start Your Healthcare Career with BTC
We hope our test-taking tips will help reduce your test anxiety, build good study habits, and boost your confidence!
Are you looking for a school that offers academic support from caring, helpful instructors? Boardman Training Center may be perfect for you! Explore our accelerated healthcare training programs: Phlebotomy, EKG, Medical Assisting Specialist, and Medical Billing and Coding Specialist. Request information now to get started today!