The time has finally come. After eight months of hard work and studious preparation, what many AP students consider as Judgment Day has arrived. Yes- the AP exams are here! For those new to the process, it may be very overwhelming and frightening knowing that this one exam will be the difference between saving money in college or having to do it all over again if the dreaded twos or ones are received; even threes in some cases. For the experienced, while we are akin to the whole process that does not mean stress is alleviated by any means: in fact, it is even more stressful for some of the veterans because they are taking more exams. However, while stress can be a good motivator, too much of it- especially when it is unnecessary- can easily lead to a multitude of of maladaptive effects. For any of you out there that still are struggling to handle the reality, this may be the article for you.

First and foremost, one must put the test into perspective. From my experience, I know that many teachers do not make it easy on kids, stressing the exam so consistently that is makes it seem like this test is literally the deciding factor between getting into college and being rejected. While the test is important and can be helpful financially in the long-term, it by no means is the end of the world. At the end of the day, the test is made to be standardized: that is, the majority of people will fall in the 68 percentile- a three – and the outliers will be in the lower or higher range. Essentially, if we speak statistically, more than likely if you have been paying attention and doing your work you will get a three so there is no need to have a panic attack thinking you may fail. When it is said and done, a test does not define you- a piece of paper with a score does not judge your self-worth and despite what you are told you should not feel that way.

In addition, it is vital to your success and your health not to go overboard. Coming from someone who has done this, if you become so stressed and fanatical about these exams you will do so much studying, so much prep and so much last minute detailing you will burn yourself out and even possibly be mentally drained. Moreover, with all of the practice one does in class and the endless practice exams and questions teachers give, it is not healthy to then go home and do that for hours more on end. In fact, it is scientifically proven that cramming and studying for hours on end is not beneficial: many experts agree balance and breaks are vital to the brains encoding process to allow the neuron fibers to make the proper connections. Instead of sitting down and going at the textbook and review packets non stop, focus on your weak points and don’t waste your time on topics you already know. On top of that, if you feel you are starting to lose concentration or become too overwhelmed stop what you are doing and feel free to relax for awhile to feel less tense. While preparation is important, it is not worth your mental well-being or sanity in the process.

Last but not least, RELAX! It might sound so trivial but it is the truth, what good are you going to be going into an exam so stressed and anxious that you cannot even answer the questions with a level head? If you know you have done what you are supposed to, did all the work as asked, went to extra help when necessary, and have done studying on your own then do not waste your time trying to find more reasons to be nervous. For example Monday is the AP Psychology exam and I am fully aware I have done more than I was required for that class. Instead of cramming tonight and losing sleep, I plan on enjoying the night watching movies, going out with my girlfriend, and then getting a good night’s rest for the day ahead.

When it is all said and done, you can only do the best that you can, nothing more and nothing less. If you go in there prepared and give it your all then you have nothing to be ashamed of. Don’t let the test psych you out- it is just another day and another test that you are going to take.