With APs coming around the corner, here are some great tips to help you get through crunch time.

Before the test…

• Study thoroughly 
• Give yourself a pep talk in the mirror. (ex. “I can do this. I’m just going to go into that room, ace this test, then walk out like a boss”)
• Sleep well.
• Eat healthy, brain boosting, energizing, snacks.
• DO NOT stress yourself out.

During the test…

• Read the question thoroughly.
• Look through all of the answers
• The fact that you have studied should help you go through questions easily. But, in case you find yourself stuck on a question, skip it and come back later.
• Sometimes the answer (or a hint to the answer) to a question will be in a previous question so just keep an eye out.
• If all else fails guess answer “C” or “all of the above” or try to eliminate the ones you know are wrong. 

Foods good for test taking:

• Blueberries- Brain cell medic that will sharpen memory like a pencil.
• Pumpkin seeds- Super zen stress reliever.
• Dark chocolate-  Besides the fact that it’s the best chocolate on planet earth, dark chocolate also contains flavonoids which makes it a brain medic. 
• Eggs- Contains B12 which is an energy goddess.
• Jerky- Any kind of jerky is maxed out in proteins.
• Nuts ( plain/no added sugars )- Loaded with proteins and the good kind of fat
• Water- Water is good for everything to be honest. It’s not called the Universal SOLVEnt for nothing.
• Cheese- Another protein and fat junkie.
• Dried fruit ( no added sugars )- Not the best option on the list but it still has more nutrients than the average joe in the American diet.

*A quick and easy trail mix breakfast would consist of plain nuts, dark chocolate, and dried fruits.*

Not the best food for test taking:

• Coffee- not the best way to start your morning if you plan on loading it with sugars and creams. The best way to consume coffee is black and if not then choose a healthier sweetener than sugar though it’s still not the best choice.
• Orange Juice- OJ is only a good idea if it’s non sugary and from real oranges. Regular oranges are a better substitute.
• Muffins-They are too sugary and will cut down on energy.
• Fruit smoothies- Just another sugary scammer.

Good luck!