If you are scheduled to give the GMAT and feel slightly nervous, understand that it is fairly normal. Doing well in GMAT can open a lot of doors that would otherwise not be accessible, and on the other hand, it is costly. Hence it might make you nervous because you have invested a lot into it and expect some returns from it. Even if you don’t or if your exam is still quite far away, you should understand how to manage stress during your exam. In the GMAT exam, you will be exposed to many questions you have to solve within a fixed time frame. Hence it is an exam that will test how you respond to stress. In this article, we will discuss how to maintain your calm in such high-stakes situations.
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Channel Your Stress
A little bit of stress is good for your performance. It shows that you are invested in your preparation. Also, your nerves can occasionally serve as an advantage instead of a hindrance.
Transform your innate nervousness into thorough preparation, enabling you to approach the testing phase with confidence. It is important to note that experiencing some degree of anxiety is not unusual; in fact, it is more common than not. A mild level of anxiety can be beneficial as it can motivate you to engage in additional studying and preparation, ultimately improving your test performance.
To increase your chances of success, it is advisable to initiate your preparation well in advance( 5-6 months before you take the GMAT). By doing so, you will enhance your familiarity with the subject matter and be fully equipped to face the challenges of the final test.
Mock Tests
Engaging in a comprehensive practice mock test can effectively alleviate the anxiety that stems from uncertainty. Students often find their anxiety levels significantly reduced after completing a few practice tests.
For thorough preparation, it is recommended to simulate real testing conditions while undertaking a practice test. Find a serene environment where you can concentrate and time yourself accordingly. Familiarizing yourself with the testing conditions and practising your timing strategy in this manner can contribute to a greater sense of ease when the actual test day arrives.
Remember to practice consistently and utilise reputable GMAT preparation materials to familiarize yourself with the test format and question types. One such excellent yet free resource is the GMATPoint Daily Targets, where you will get one free test of verbal and quant questions daily, covering all the topics included in the syllabus of GMAT, which you must solve in a given period. After you are done solving, you will get access to video solutions to the problems and a comparative analysis of your scores compared to other GMAT aspirants.
Prioritize Self-care And Relaxation
Incorporating moments of self-care can significantly reduce anxiety. Research suggests that obtaining sufficient sleep is closely connected to emotional well-being, as well-rested individuals are better equipped to handle challenging emotions such as stress and nervousness.
While preparing for an important test, finding time for rest may seem challenging, but it is an essential aspect of your overall preparation strategy. Consider allocating time for enjoyable and calming activities, whether it’s taking a leisurely walk, indulging in a soothing bath, or having a movie night.
Devoting a few hours to unwinding the night before your test can also help alleviate nerves and promote restful sleep, ultimately enhancing your focus on the day of the test.
Embrace A Positive Mindset
Take a moment to reflect on your past achievements and successful experiences during exams, reminding yourself of your capabilities and affirming that you can excel once again. Maintaining a positive mindset plays a crucial role in manifesting a higher score. It’s important to remember that an exam does not define your status as the most brilliant or least brilliant student in your class.
Practice Mindful Eating And Drinking On Exam Day
During times of stress, it’s common to turn to food as a source of comfort, which can lead to feelings of sickness. Additionally, heightened anxiety can amplify the effects of caffeine, resulting in jitteriness. Being mindful of your food choices on test days can contribute to a sense of well-being and improved performance.
Keeping these five points in mind, you should approach the GMAT in a planned and disciplined manner to achieve the best results. Given that you prepare well and manage your stress successfully, you are sure to get your target GMAT score and get into the program of your choice.
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