As the first week of May begins, so does a new set of challenges for the students participating in the International Baccalaureate testing sessions. Whether or not these tests have got you stressin’, here are a few tips to help boost the testing atmosphere and ace the day.

1. Review all learning targets and key topics from the year. This should be obvious. Look through any guidelines, vocabulary, practice tests, or notes you have been given.

2. Be sure to get a good night’s sleep. This means 7-9 hours. Do not stay up into the wee hours of the morning cramming – you will not retain the information you just tried to learn.

3. Eat a healthy, fibrous breakfast or meal 1-2 hours before the test. Not only will it serve as “brain food”, but it will also help prevent distracting feelings of hunger.

4. Eat a piece of chocolate before the test. It will boost your serotonin levels, triggering feel-good chemicals that will make you as happy and confident as possible for testing conditions.

5. Drink some coffee. But not too much. A little bit of caffeine will keep your mind from wandering during the test while a lot can make you overly-hyper and heighten any stress you may be feeling.

6. Come prepared with a water bottle, calculator (if applicable), and a blue or black-ink pen.

7. Practice taking deep breaths right before you enter the testing room. Meditate. Relax. Close your eyes and imagine yourself taking the test and acing it.

8. Avoid comparing yourself to others during the test. That kid sitting right in front of you loudly flipping their way through the test packet? They may be looking for a question they know how to answer.

When you finish the test, give yourself a pat on the back if you feel so inclined. You made it; now don’t forget to check the results in July.