When it comes to the life of a student, very few things can cause more stress than studying for tests. Many students suffer from test anxiety, some worse than others. Whether you suffer from test anxiety or just want to boost your test scores, here are a few helpful tips and tricks to help you do better on your next test.

1. Read out loud. Abraham Lincoln was said to have paced around his room reading his books out loud because he thought that two senses were better than one. So, if you’re not a visual learner, try reading your material out loud to add an aural element to reading!
2. Chew a certain gum while you study, then chew that same type of gum during your test. Ever notice how a certain smell, sound, taste, or feeling can instantly take you back to a place or time? That is because your senses are all tied together. So, next time you take a test, try using this to your advantage!
3. Study in the same room you will take your test in. Studies have shown that recall is better in a more familiar environment. For instance, say you’re studying for a psychology test and you read a fact about Freud, and then you just happen to glance up at a clock on the wall. There is a chance that the fact about Freud and the clock on the wall will be connected in your mind somehow.
4. Listen to music while you study. Studies have shown that listening to certain types of music while you study can help improve retention. However, not just any music will work. Studies have shown instrumental music is usually better because it has no words to distract you from what you are reading.
5. Talk through your material with someone. Some people retain information better when they discuss it with someone else. How many times have you been talking to someone and said something you did not realize you knew? Learning can be just like that. Sometimes, just talking through something will help you better understand it.
6. Try word association. Most of us have heard that word association can help to memorize key terms or concepts, but have you ever tried writing them down? Next time you have to memorize a bunch of terminology, try writing out a word association chart.
7. The last, and potentially most controversial tip—try talking to your professor. I know we all think our professors to be evil, maniacal, sadistic individuals who find their joy in making us suffer, but that is not true. Most professors are here because they genuinely care about what (and who) they are teaching. So, next time you are struggling with your material, just talk to your professor. They will be more than glad to help as long as you put in the work and try your best!