By Avreet Jagdev

As we approach the end of the school year, students across Ontario are getting ready to take their EQAO tests.

For many, test taking can be a source of major stress, but preparing effectively can help alleviate some of this stress and anxiety. If you’re getting ready for your EQAOs this semester, here are some tips and suggestions to make sure you’re well-prepared for your test.

1. Start preparing well in advance

It’s important to give yourself enough time to study. Beginning your preparation well in advance can help make sure you don’t have to cram your studying towards the end, which can lead to stress and lower performance.

Instead, start thinking about your exam weeks or even months in advance. Figure out what you have to review before you take your test, and make a study plan for yourself to follow!

2. Do a little bit every day

For many students, studying for just a little bit every day is more realistic than having long study sessions. It’s more than likely that you have class assignments and other commitments that take up your time, so long study sessions might not always be possible. In fact, they may not even be needed if you span your studying over a longer period of time!

3. Pay attention in class

The EQAO, like most other tests you’ll take as a student, will test material that you have covered in your classes. For this reason, one of the best strategies to employ is to pay attention in your classes! If you actively listen and learn during class, your study time can be used to review information, rather than attempting to learn it all on your own.

4. Ask for help when you need it

As you study for your test, you will most likely encounter a topic or subject that you have trouble with. When this happens, it’s best to ask for help right away. Whether it’s a teacher, classmate, or tutor, asking for the help you need will always help solidify your understanding and ease your nerves about the test!

In addition to those longer-term study tips, here are some tips for exam day:

1. Get a good night’s rest

You hear it all the time for a reason! It’s essential that you get at least seven to eight hours of sleep every night, but especially the night before a big test. Make sure you go to bed at a reasonable time so you wake up well-rested for your EQAO.

2. Eat a good breakfast

Or if you’re not a breakfast person, make sure you nourish your body in some other way – whether it’s a smoothie or you just grab a granola bar. Also, don’t forget to hydrate!

3. Do stress-relieving activities

If you’re someone who gets test anxiety, try out some stress-relieving activities or techniques. Some examples include deep breathing, going on a walk before your test, or doing a colouring activity.

4. Once you’re done, try not to worry about it!

Once you walk out of that exam room, remember that what’s done is done, and that you did your very best.