8 Ways to Manage BOC Exam Anxiety

As an athletic trainer, passing the Board of Certification (BOC) exam is a crucial step in your career. However, the pressure of taking such an important exam can lead to test anxiety. Test anxiety is a common experience for many athletic training students, but it doesn’t have to be a debilitating one. Here are some tips for overcoming test anxiety and succeeding on the BOC exam.

Be Prepared

The first step to overcoming test anxiety is to be prepared. This means studying thoroughly, knowing the material, and feeling confident in your abilities. Make a study schedule and stick to it, take practice tests, and review your notes regularly. Feeling prepared will give you the confidence you need to succeed.

Practice Relaxation Techniques

Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and visualization can help reduce test anxiety. Practice these techniques regularly leading up to the exam so that you are familiar with them on test day.

Get Enough Sleep

Getting enough sleep is crucial to reducing anxiety. Lack of sleep can cause fatigue, irritability, and decreased cognitive function. Aim for at least 7–8 hours of sleep each night leading up to the BOC exam.