2. Stage 1: Alarm
(“Psyched Up” for a Test)
Initial awareness of anxiety
Physical Symptoms (including
“butterflies,” increased perspiration, and
dryness of mouth)
Slight increase in ability to concentrate
Slight increase in ability to think logically
Slight increase in ability to
recall memory
3. Stage 2: Fear
Warning Signs! Take Action!
Feelings of fearful anxiety and/or frustration
Additional physical symptoms (including heart
pounding, breathlessness, and muscular tension)
Slight decrease in ability to concentrate
Slight decrease in ability to recall memory
Slight decrease in ability to think
logically
DEFINITELY manageable during
the test
4. Stage 3: Full Blown
Test Anxiety
Intense feelings of anxiety, frustration,
and hopelessness
Additional physical symptoms (including
muscle tremors, nausea, and faintness)
Great decrease in ability to concentrate
Great decrease in ability to think logically
Great decrease in ability to recall memory
SELDOM manageable during the test!
