Test anxiety is actually a type of performance anxiety a feeling someone might have in a situation where performance really counts or when the pressure's on to do well. For example, a person might experience performance anxiety when he or she is about to try out for the school play, sing a solo on stage, get into position at the pitcher's mound, step onto the platform in a diving meet, or go into an important interview.
Like other situations in which a person might feel performance anxiety, test anxiety can bring on "butterflies," a stomachache, or a tension headache. Some people might feel shaky, sweaty, or feel their heart beating quickly as they wait for the test to be given out. A student with really strong test anxiety may even feel like he or she might pass out or throw up.
Test anxiety is not the same as doing poorly on a certain test because your mind is on something else. Most people know that having other things on their minds such as a breakup or the death of someone close can also interfere with their concentration and prevent them from doing their best on a test.
By D'Arcy Lyness, PhD
The above information thankfully comes from the kidshealth.org at the following link.
