Test-taking Tip: Visualizing Exam Success

Feeling overwhelmed and anxious about the exam? Maybe it's time to take a break from studying and use your imagination. But we're not talking about simple daydreaming—instead, we're suggesting a technique known as visualization.  "Visualization" refers to creating a mental image of an object or a scene in your head. Many experts believe visualization to be effective both in combating anxiety and in influencing outcomes. Here's a brief description of two ways you can try visualization.

Find your "happy place." This method involves visualizing a place or scene, either real or imagined, that you find relaxing and safe. Close your eyes and breathe calmly.

• Picture your happy place, as if you were there, looking through your own eyes.
• In your mind, look around that place, and take notice of what you see, what you hear and smell, and how you feel. Smile!
• Visualize this place for one or two minutes.

Because the effectiveness of this method often increases over time, try using this visualization technique whenever you need a study break or feel stressed out. You don't need to wait until exam day.

Seeing your success. In this method, you use your imagination to create a clear image of something you want to happen, such as passing the exam.

• Close your eyes and breathe calmly.
• Picture yourself on the day of the exam, starting with the moment you wake up.
• Envision receiving the exam and calmly and confidently answering the questions.
• See yourself receiving a high test score. Smile!
• Repeat this visualization one or two more times.

By helping you realize what you are capable of achieving, this visualization eliminates anxiety and other mental barriers standing in your way. When the day of the exam arrives, you'll have already "seen" yourself taking and passing the exam. You'll know what you can do. Just make it a self-fulfilling prophecy!

One more tip for exam day: If you find yourself starting to panic or even blank out, stop for a moment and ask yourself these questions: "What am I doing? Why am I doing it?" Asking and answering these questions allows you to consciously recognize what you are doing. You will feel calmer, more focused, and more in control.

Good luck! Remember, Rockwell Institute is always here to answer your questions about taking the real estate exam.