General-Purpose Learning Strategies for Test Anxiety Test
anxiety refers to a complex of physiological and emotional
responses to tension or stress resulting from apprehension for
upcoming exams. This state of distress and uneasiness is often
marked by muscle tension, headaches, stomach aches, sleepiness
or sleeplessness, excessive sweating, acne breakouts, fever
blisters, shakiness, depression, irritability, anger, panic,
lack of confidence, helplessness, and memory loss. The effects
of test anxiety vary widely in nature and severity from one
student to another. Some students are mildly affected by
anxiety, and may only experience one or two of the symptoms.
Others, however, may experience symptoms of anxiety so severe
that they are greatly incapacitated. Many researchers suggest
that a little worry is good for students because it keeps them
alert and task-oriented. Excessive worry, on the other hand, can
be very deleterious and debilitating for students as it leads to
mental blocks and the other problems li