Q&A for How to Take a Test on Minimal Sleep

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How can I do well in exams with little sleep?

Jake Adams
Academic Tutor & Test Prep Specialist
Jake Adams is an academic tutor and the owner of Simplifi EDU, a Santa Monica, California based online tutoring business offering learning resources and online tutors for academic subjects K-College, SAT & ACT prep, and college admissions applications. With over 14 years of professional tutoring experience, Jake is dedicated to providing his clients the very best online tutoring experience and access to a network of excellent undergraduate and graduate-level tutors from top colleges all over the nation. Jake holds a BS in International Business and Marketing from Pepperdine University.

Jake Adams

Academic Tutor & Test Prep Specialist

Expert Answer

If at all possible, take a nap. You can get into a REM sleep cycle with one, which can help reintegrate your memory. Also, keep refreshing your memory with notes, study guides, or other study materials right up until the exam. This repeated, fresh information can help compensate for anything you might have otherwise forgotten because of lack of sleep.

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What if I can't have coffee?

Community Answer

Try putting cold water on your face. This will make you feel fresh. Also, try staying active - don't stay slumped around for long periods of time. When you do take your test, do little things to keep you alert, like kicking your legs (do this lightly so it goes unnoticed), so that you stay active.

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What if I fall asleep during my exam?

Community Answer

Drink lots of water and eat a protein bar. Hype yourself up, or have something sugary, and soldier through it.

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How can I get to sleep when I'm really anxious about the test?

Community Answer

Relax yourself as much as you can. Have a warm bath, listen to some calming music, do whatever makes you feel at ease. Getting a good night's sleep and being able to relax are very important for your test performance. Try meditation and deep breathing exercises as well.

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What if I'm worrying about the amount of sleep I'll get?

Community Answer

Remember that your main priority is to take the test as comfortably as possible. Try to relax and squeeze in as much sleep as you can, even if it's not a lot - dwelling on how many hours you're getting will only make you more nervous and sleep-deprived.

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What should I do if I didn't sleep last night?

Community Answer

Sleep today and don't go to school. It may sound bad but sleep is important and you will likely not do well on a test if you did not sleep before. Budget your time better, so this doesn't happen again.

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What do I do if I'm too tired to think during the test?

Community Answer

Drink a large cup of coffee and then go to bed as soon as you write it. On the other hand, organize your time more wisely in the week leading up to the test. Planning is the best solution.

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Is it normal to fall asleep during an exam?

Thatgirl2000

Community Answer

If you have not had enough sleep the night before, yes it is possible. Sleep for about 7-8 hours the night before the exam (or your normal sleep routine). If you do not, the lack of sleep affects your performance.

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Why do I still feel tired after napping after school, even though I also want to sleep at night?

WikiDugongCaster408

Community Answer

Your nap after school might be too long, which can actually contribute to increased tiredness. It's also possible you are not getting enough overall sleep. Prioritizing sufficient sleep at night is essential for your health and happiness. Consider taking only a short 10-minute power nap after school, focusing most of your sleep at night.

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What should I do if I cannot take a wake-up shower?

WikiDugongCaster408

Community Answer

You might consider showering the night before and reviewing the test material in your mind; for some, this can help calm you down. On the morning of the test, try splashing cold water on your face or arms to help you feel more alert.

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