If you're feeling overwhelmed or stuck:
* Take a deep breath: Seriously. A few slow, deep breaths can calm your nerves and clear your head.
* Step back and reassess: Look over the entire exam. Are there easier questions you can tackle first to build confidence and momentum? Prioritize!
* Review your notes (if allowed): If permitted, quickly glance at relevant notes or formulas to jog your memory.
* Skip difficult questions: Don't get bogged down. Mark them and come back later if you have time. It's better to get easy points than to spend too long on one problem.
* Check your work: If you've finished a section, quickly proofread your answers for careless errors. Simple mistakes can cost you valuable points.
* Focus on the process, not the outcome: Worrying about your grade will only increase stress and hinder your performance. Concentrate on answering each question to the best of your ability.
* Use time wisely: Keep an eye on the clock and allocate your time effectively.
If you're experiencing a medical emergency (e.g., feeling faint, chest pain, severe headache):
* Immediately raise your hand and inform the invigilator/proctor. Explain that you need to see a medical professional. Your health is more important than the exam.
If you have a question about a question:
* Raise your hand and politely ask the invigilator/proctor for clarification. Do so quietly, without disrupting other students. If clarification is unavailable, make a note of your understanding and move on.
If you're feeling anxious:
* Use positive self-talk: Remind yourself that you've prepared and that you can do this. Focus on what you *do* know, not what you *don't* know.
* Visualize success: Mentally picture yourself successfully completing the exam.
In short: Stay calm, manage your time, prioritize, and don't panic. Remember that every point counts, so even if you can't answer everything perfectly, aim to answer as much as possible correctly. And if something is seriously wrong, seek help immediately.