Before I have tests or quizzes I get really nervous, even if I studied a lot. I get so nervous that sometimes it affects my performance on the test/quiz.

How can I calm down and ease my nerves?

As distracting as they can be, nerves before tests are totally normal. But, that doesn’t mean you should let ‘em get in your way of doing your best.

It sounds obvious, but the absolute best thing to do is study,  study, study. (And I don’t mean just skimming your notes the night before.) When you know the material inside and out, you’ll feel totally prepped, not to mention less nervous. Here are a few tips:

~Start early! Sure, you may be able to cram, but in the long run, you don’t end up really learning the material. Start reviewing a little bit (say, 30 minutes to an hour) each night the week before your test. Whatever you do, don't pull an all-nighter or stay up extra late before the big day. Sleep deprivation means a poor performance!

~Take a break: If you find yourself half asleep, go take a li’l break to wake up. If you’re super-exhausted, just go to bed. It’s a lot easier to focus once you’ve caught some zzz's. Trust me, forcing yourself to study when you’re brain dead is so not productive. So, hit the hay for a 20 minute cat nap or set your alarm a little early so you can review while you eat a nutritious breakfast.

~Test yourself: Reading through notes is a must, but make sure you remember the material by testing yourself. Make flashcards or cover up your notes and ask yourself Qs about the topic. Or, create a test and then hide your books and time yourself as you take it. Grade yourself when you're done. No cheating!

~Have study buddies: I didn’t realize this until late in high school, but study groups can be WAY helpful. Work with classmates who will answer some of your Qs but also challenge you with a few of their own. Bonus? You can play fun games like Jeopardy to test your knowledge. Oh, and it's the perf excuse to invite a cute guy from class over, too.

While you’re waiting for Teach to hand out the tests, try thinking about something happy or comforting like the amazing concert you’re seeing this weekend or those homemade cookies mom packed in your lunch. Yum!

When the test is on your desk, close your eyes for a sec and take a few deep breaths. Relax, it’s gonna be OK. You’ve done a great job studying, so there’s no reason to sweat it!  And don’t forget to keep things in perspective: In your whole life, one tricky test is no biggie. If you ever make a mistake, just reflect and build on it.

Believe in yourself and just do the best you can. I know you’ll do great!

GOT SCHOOLROOM STRESS? CLICK HERE to submit your own problem to be answered on Girl Talk!

3/11/2010 7:00:00 AM