During The Test

If you begin to feel anxious during the test, use your relaxation skills to refocus your attention. Reframe your focus with positive self-talk. Tell yourself, “I can be anxious later. Now is the time to focus on the test,” or reduce your anxiety by reinforcing, “I am thoroughly prepared for this test, and will answer each problem to the best of my ability.” If reframing your focus is not enough to minimize your symptoms of tension and anxiety, incorporate abridged versions of deep breathing and progressive muscle relaxation. For your breathing, practice a “two-step breath.” Step one is to breathe deeply through your nostrils, first filling your lower abdomen and then your lungs. Step two is to breath out slowly and deeply, envisioning all of your tension and anxiety leaving your body with your breath. For some people, adding a “mantra” to quiet your mind during the two-step breath can enhance its efficacy. During your inhale, slowly think or say to yourself “I am”, and then, during your exhale, slowly think or say “so calm.” As for your abbreviated version of progressive muscle relaxation, quickly scan your body to notice any specific areas of tension. Tighten each bothersome muscle group for one deep inhale, and then relax your muscles as you exhale slowly and deeply. As always, visualize all of the tension and anxiety leaving your body along with your breath. After the GMAT, whether you did as well as you had hoped or not, be sure to follow through on the reward you promised yourself — and enjoy it! Try not to dwell on all the mistakes you might have made. Remember, the GMAT is not a matter of life and death – it is only a test!