In open book exams, you should remember that the book is your tool. Do
not plan to study the book while you are taking the test. Study it before class.
Make sure you know where all the tables, formulas, and rules are in the
book. If you are permitted, have the formulas, rules, and summaries written
down. Also, have sample problems and their solutions written down.
Don’t be elated when your instructor gives you a take home exam. These
exams are usually the hardest. You may have to go to the library and get
other books on the subject to help you do the problems, or you may have to
ask other students for help. The important thing is to get the correct solution.
Show all of your work.
When your instructor returns the exam, make a note of the types of
problems you missed and go back and review them when you get home.
See your instructor for anything that you are not sure of.
A Final Note
Parts I and II explained the nature and causes of math anxiety and showed
some ways to reduce or eliminate the symptoms of math anxiety. Part III
explained study, review, and test-taking skills needed for success in mathe-
matics. But there is still one problem left to discuss: What happens if you are in
over your head – i.e., the material you are studying is still too difficult for you?
First, try getting a math tutor. Many schools provide tutors through the
learning center or math lab. Usually the tutoring is free. If your school does
not provide free tutors, then seek out one on your own and pay him or her to
help you learn.
There are other things you can do to help yourself if tutoring doesn’t work.
You can drop the course you are in and sign up for a lower-level course next
semester. You can also audit the course, i.e., you can take the course but do
not receive a grade. This way you can learn as much as you can but without
the pressure. Of course, you will have to enroll in the course again next
semester for a grade.
Many colleges and some high schools offer non-credit brush-up courses
such as algebra review or arithmetic review. If you need to learn the basic
skills, check your school for one of these courses. Usually no tests or grades
are given in these courses.
I hope that you have found the suggestions in this program helpful, and I
wish you success in your mathematical endeavor.
SUPPLEMENT Overcoming Math Anxiety 285