You’re prepared and ready to take the GED. Maybe that’s why you’re surprised to experience anxiety. You’ve studied and you’re ready for this! Why so nervous? The good news is that you can learn how to overcome test anxiety. It won’t take nearly as long as it took to prepare for the GED test, and you did that. So let’s get started.

What Is Test Anxiety?

Many students feel a little nervous before taking tests. According to KidsHealth.org, that nervousness is your body’s way of telling you something important is coming up. It helps you to better prepare.

Anxiety is different. It takes nervousness to a new level and involves intense fright or worry. That pressure can make test-taking extremely difficult.

Symptoms

Emotional, mental, and physical symptoms of test anxiety can include:

• Faster heartbeat than normal
• Profuse sweating
• Rage
• Feeling unable to help yourself
• Negativity
• Insecurity
• Embarrassment
• Feeling sick to your stomach
• Not staying focused
• Disappointment in yourself
• Constant thirst
• Nervousness
• Clenching muscles

What Causes Test Anxiety?

Staying calm during exams is easier if we understand the causes of anxiety. When you feel enormous pressure to perform or an extremely important event is coming up, that accumulation of stress combines to form anxiety. Here are some circumstances that might further explain the causes.

You’re Afraid You Won’t Do Well

This feeling can motivate you to study well and prepare ahead of time. It can also make you feel insecure.

You Don’t Feel Ready

This can be especially hard if you’ve procrastinated and put off studying. Other times students exhaust themselves by over-preparing and still feel like it’s not enough.

There Is a Lot Riding on the Test

If you need a certain score for employment or to get into a particular school, you’ll feel an overwhelming sense of pressure that could lead to test anxiety.

5 Tips to Overcome Test Anxiety

Now that you understand why you may be feeling anxious, use these tips for what to do when you’re nervous for a test.

1. Put in the time

Start studying early and take advantage of GED practice tests. This is vital if you want to learn how to calm down during an exam. Study essential test-taking strategies that will help you with the GED and any challenges down the road. Taking the time to do this will help you feel less anxious on test day.

2. Sleep well

Leading up to, and including, the night before the exam, get between 7-9 hours of uninterrupted sleep. You might feel nervous when trying to sleep the night before. That’s why you want to build up good sleep in the week prior.

3. Arrive early

Feeling rushed, fighting traffic, and arriving late just add to anxiety. Get up earlier than normal and make arrangements so you can easily arrive at least a half-hour before the exam begins.

4. Avoid distractions

Leave your phone in the car and find a seat in the front of the classroom or testing center. This will help you focus and concentrate on one thing, passing the test.

5. Start with what you know

One of the best test-taking strategies is to quickly skim the test when you begin. Start answering questions you know, rather than from the beginning. Skip over hard questions as you go. Then, when you’re done, go back and tackle anything that stumped you.

Help Reduce Test Anxiety with Proper Preparation

You can learn how to overcome test anxiety and get your GED. Stay positive and remind yourself you can do this. Remember that proper preparation will do wonders toward helping you feel better about the experience. Get your study materials and get started today.

Taking the GED is an important step in furthering your educational, academic, and personal goals. You’ve likely spent hours preparing for the test, and now you’re wondering: should you take the GED online or in person? And can you even take the GED test online at home?

The answer to this question depends on your preferences and life circumstances. Check out our tips to help you determine the differences between online vs. in person GED testing.

Taking the GED Online vs. In Person

Thanks to today’s modern technology, it’s easy to prepare for and take the GED online or in person. There are four portions of the GED exam, and it is not advised to take them all in one day. Fortunately, both the online and in-person options make it easy to schedule the test over the course of a few weeks or months.

Here’s what you should know about each testing option.

Online

Like the in-person exam, the online exam is proctored, meaning an instructor supervises you while you take the test to ensure that all the exam rules are followed. You’ll also need to provide a government-issued photo ID to verify your name, birthday, residence, and signature.

Then, once you’re done, you’ll be able to see the final exam scores on GED.com.

In-Person

If you decide to take the GED in person, you can search online to find an official testing center near you. Most in-person exams are offered on weekdays, with the exclusion of holidays. Because seating is limited, you’ll need to check test availability before signing up.

The testing center will provide you with all the materials you need for the exam (such as pencils, paper, and equation charts) and will not allow you to use your own. You’ll be required to place personal items like purses and backpacks in a secure locker before entering the testing center.

Can I Take My GED Test Online At Home?

Though there seems to be conflicting information circulating around the internet, it’s important to know that you can take the GED test online at home. However, this depends on the state you live in. You can use this resource to see if your state qualifies. Wherever you take the test, it must be given by an official GED testing service and supervised by an online proctor to be considered valid.

Circumstances that May Affect Where You Should Take the Test

The testing experience will be different for everyone who takes it. Considering these factors may help you make a decision on where you take the test.

Distance From a Testing Center

When looking at different testing centers, find one that’s in a convenient location. Consider parking options, traffic conditions, and safety when considering which center works best for you. The last thing you want is to be stressed out before or after such a big test.

Access to Secure and Reliable Internet

Ensure the location where you will be testing will have a secure and steady internet connection. If your internet is consistently unreliable or sometimes has poor connection issues, perhaps you can get a technician out for repairs before testing. Otherwise, it might be a good idea to seek out alternative locations that have reliable internet such as a public library before your testing day.

What Time You Schedule Your Test

Whether you schedule your testing in the morning or evening, be aware of factors that may change. Traffic jams can cause people to be late or miss their test. So can a lunch rush. Therefore, try to pick a time in the late morning or early afternoon. Either that or plan accordingly and give yourself plenty of time to get there.

Home Environment

It is recommended to have a clean and quiet area when taking the GED test. Distractions due to clutter, barking dogs, or noisy kids can make it hard to concentrate. Don’t let a disruptive environment ruin your big day. Also, be sure to pick a spot in your house with good lighting and plenty of room to work.

Earn Your GED Today

Now that you know more about taking the GED online and in person, it’s time to start your path toward earning your GED. Head to GED Testing Services to schedule your GED exam, then start preparing by checking out practice tests, flashcards, and more.

Congratulations on getting your GED! All that hard work and preparation paid off. Perhaps you’re wondering, “How to get a copy of my GED transcript?” Or maybe you want a copy of your diploma.

What’s the difference between a diploma and a transcript?

Your diploma is the certificate issued by your state. It means you have earned your high school equivalency. Your transcript is the official record of all the test subjects you took. It also lists your scores.

Many colleges and universities will require you to submit a copy of each to be accepted and start taking classes. Check out the details about how to get both your diploma and transcripts after passing the test!

Original copies

Some states usually send an email to you right after you pass. This includes a copy of your diploma and transcript. If you didn’t get one, you might live in a state that sends out paper copies instead.

To find out, look up your state’s GED policy page and look for their procedures.

Keep in mind that even if sent in email form, this is your official diploma and transcript. Download and save these documents immediately once you receive them. Make sure your laptop is equipped with Adobe software (version 6.0 or higher) to do this successfully.

Replacement copies

Unfortunately, there is no national process when ordering a replacement GED diploma or transcript. Again, each state has its own process and the can vary widely. For example, in some states, copies of GED diplomas and transcripts are provided by the organization where you took your GED test. Others are kept with the state agency in charge.

We recommend everyone keep records regarding where and how you took your test. This makes ordering replacement documents in the future a lot easier.

To request a replacement, contact the organization you took your test with. For instance, this can be an online testing company or an adult education program. Some students take their GED class and test at a local high school or vocational school. In any case, these programs will replace a lost GED transcript or diploma.

If they don’t have a copy, someone should refer you to a state agency where you can retrieve the requested documents. If all else fails, or you didn’t keep information about where you took your test, contact your state Department of Education. They should be able to point you in the right direction.

“Help, I lost my GED diploma!”

Go to your state Department of Education website or call them directly. Online, find the section where they have order forms to “replace a lost GED certificate.”

In some states, this is simple. You download a form from an agency website, print it, fill out the required information, and send it in.

They may require you to request a paper form over the phone or via the website in other states. This might take a bit longer than a web form, but you can also write a letter asking for a copy of your GED transcript and diploma.

If you do write a letter, you’ll need to include your:

• Full name
• Date of birth
• Social Security number
• Full name at the time of the test
• Location and year of the test
• Mailing address
• Phone number

You’ll pay a small processing fee. This is usually payable by certified check or money order. Finally, include a self-addressed stamped envelope large enough for your GED diploma to lay flat. A 10 x 13-inch envelope typically works in this case.

How long will this take?

Mail the form or letter to the appropriate state agency. Most physical diploma and/or transcript orders take approximately 1-2 days to process. Getting them in the mail can take up to several weeks.

Please allow at least a few months for processing and shipping. Don’t wait until the last minute before beginning this request. And before you place an order, call and confirm that you have the correct information and address.

“I can’t remember where I took my GED test.”

Call any local organization offering GED prep classes and/or testing. Personally call and ask to speak to supervisors who will be able to direct you. They’ll know how to help. Don’t just email and hope for the best.

When you do find the correct location, be sure to ask for more copies than you think you need to avoid this hassle in the future.

When you’ve received your copies, store them in a safe location. Also, keep a record of where they came from and how you got them. Just in case you need more copies down the road.

“How do I get my GED test scores online?”

GED.com can help you with that. Click here and follow the instructions. You will answer a couple of questions before you’re directed to the appropriate page.

Earning your GED will benefit your personal and professional life in so many ways. It will allow you to attend college and, if the score is high enough, you can apply for scholarships to pay your way. A college degree can lead to higher-paying positions and career advancement. You’ll also feel empowered as you set an important goal and see it through. But how do you get there? The GED+ study program is a step-by-step, all-inclusive preparation program that sets you up for success. Here’s how GED+ can work for you.

1. A Personal GED Advisor

When you enroll in GED+, you’ll be paired with a dedicated GED expert. Your personal advisor guides and encourages you from the very beginning. What are your goals? Your advisor will go over those and discuss your strengths and opportunities for growth. You’ll both devise a plan to get where you want to go professionally and find ways to stay on track.

This is a comprehensive process. No two students are the same, so each advising session should be customized to fit your personal needs—including requesting a bilingual advisor. These sessions are usually once a week and focus on motivation and encouragement. Your GED journey starts here.

2. Official Practice Tests

Once your advisor begins the process, they’re with you from start to finish. The next step is to sign you up for a practice test. You’ll go over test-taking strategies with your advisor and then take the test in a pressure-free environment. This confidence-building exercise will help you better understand what you know and need to know when you obtain the results. After you get your scores, you’ll receive appropriate study material to begin preparation where you need it. You’re off to a great start!

3. Comprehensive Study Tools

The GED+ study program includes top-rated course materials for each subject. This saves you money and time rather than buying each item separately. Before you begin studying, talk to your advisor and make any positive changes to help you focus on the GED for at least 20 minutes each day. Such changes might include:

• Getting a good night’s sleep.
• Drinking plenty of water every day.
• Maintaining a healthy diet.
• Setting aside a quiet place for studying.
• Limiting distractions like television, music, and electronic devices.
• Learning healthy and effective stress-reducing activities.

4. Test Until You Pass

The cost of the program includes any retakes you might need. With the test pass guarantee, you don’t have to cause yourself undue stress as you study and prepare. This allows you to fully concentrate on what you’re learning without financial or academic pressure. There is no extra charge or deadline! You’ll improve along the way and stay motivated to keep going. Each of your successes will be a step in the right direction.

5. 1-On-1 Tutoring

What if you need a little extra help? Many students have been out of school for a while and need a GED tutor for personalized instruction. No problem! Improving along the way is huge. Your tutor will help you do it. This is part of the program and commitment to help each student as they move through this journey to success. Experienced tutors work with you and help you tackle tough topics.

6. Step-By-Step Guidance

We don’t just hand you prep materials and send you on your way. Your advisor and tutor are in this with you every step of your journey. They guide you through each part of our program until you’ve achieved your goals.

7. An All-Inclusive Program

From start to finish, the GED+ program covers it all. It’s the only all-inclusive solution that guides you from prep to graduation. You’ll get study tips, test-taking strategies, and subject guidelines. Every facet of this program comes directly from the creators of the GED test.

8. A Higher Pass Rate

You’ve got an advisor, peers, and an entire community supporting you on your journey. That’s why those who use GED+ are twice as likely to earn their GED than those who study on their own.

9. A Peace-Of-Mind Guarantee

This is the only program that gives you access to everything you need, for as long as you need, until you pass. Things come up: job changes, medical emergencies, family issues. The last thing you want is pressure on top of pressure. You work at your own pace and go along at the speed that feels comfortable. There’s no deadline to your dreams.

Sign up for a stellar start-to-pass program that gets you to the finish line. Contact GED to learn more.

It’s the day before your GED exam and you’re thinking of ways to prepare. Don’t know where to start? The tips below will help you get ready fast.

Clarify All Your Doubts

Before test day, be sure that you understand all the info clearly. You can do this by jotting down every topic that’s challenging for you. Use previous study materials and online resources to help clarify your doubts.

The day before the exam, focus on reviewing those difficult topics and getting them down so test day is a breeze!

Complete a Practice Test

Completing a practice test is a great way to review and allows you to gauge your level of understanding. We recommend to take at least three practice tests throughout your GED prep. You can practice by using sample exams that your instructor provides or find them online.

Here’s another tip: time yourself while completing it to make sure you have good pacing. Use GED Ready or check out our free GED practice tests!

Review With a Friend

Studies have shown that reviewing with a friend helps to retain more information, increases your level of motivation, and encourages you to think more critically. When collaborating with another person, you get exposed to different points of view. This is extremely beneficial because it can make a difficult topic easier to understand.

Next time a big test is coming up, create a study group or call a friend!

Get Plenty of Rest

Don’t pull an all-nighter before an exam! Cramming and staying up late will leave you tired and struggling to focus the next day. Instead, lightly review before going to bed early and eat a filling breakfast the next morning. This will help you feel energized throughout the day and remain cool, calm, and collected when the exam begins.

Don’t forget to visit GED.com for study tips, practice tests, study tools, and more.

Note-taking is something that people either love or dread. Finding the right note-taking style will make your studying effective and enjoyable. Below are a few tips on how you can take effective handwritten notes when studying for the GED.

Create headings and subheadings

To stay organized while taking notes, be sure to include headings, subheadings, and highlighting. No one wants to muddle through an indistinguishable block of text! Therefore, when revising notes, break up the text into major headings and smaller subheadings so you can easily find key points on the page.

You can further refine your notes by highlighting keywords and breaking up text with bullet points and numbered lists.

Don’t worry about aesthetics

When writing notes, it can be easy to obsess over how they look rather than focus on the content. Here’s a tip: first, get the main info down in your notebook. Then refine those points by organizing them into sections.

Worrying about aesthetics can distract you from jotting down vital information. Notes don’t have to be fancy; make them clear, concise, and structured in a way that makes it easy for you to read later.

Use nice stationery

Reliable writing materials such as pens, pencils, paper, and other office supplies help you focus on capturing the info you need. Stationery can be used for more than just aesthetics. A comfortable experience will improve the quality of your notes. Colored pens and markers will allow top points in your notes to stand out more.

When creating a new page of notes, write the heading in color so you can easily see which topic the notes are on. Another tip is to keep a pad of sticky notes handy. They can key items to the forefront, such as formulas, equations, or definitions.

Include drawings and graphics

Don’t be afraid to doodle. Visual learning helps you retain info longer, better understand complex topics, and absorb knowledge more quickly. Your graphics don’t have to be masterpieces! Simply draw what makes sense to you.

When taking notes, make sure to include drawings of graphs and equations to remember them clearly. If drawing is not your forte, you can also print out graphics and paste them into your notebook.

We hope these tips continue to help you along your GED journey. Don’t forget to visit GED.com for study tips, practice tests, interactive tools, and more.

Taking the GED can be a life-changing event. Passing the GED gives you a boost as well as access to more jobs with advanced training and better benefits. You’ll be able to pursue higher education and follow a path to advanced degrees and more opportunities.

Preparation for the GED is critical. It’s also stressful, and to get GED ready means preparing with hard work and discipline. Thankfully, this doesn’t have to be difficult.

Here are some helpful tips for better test-taking. You can do this!

Test Taking Tips

1. Take time to read each question carefully.
2. Make sure you understand the question.
3. Read all the answers before choosing one.
4. Mark off questions that are obviously wrong and concentrate on what’s left.
5. Don’t overthink or change answers all over the test. Your first answer is usually the right one.
6. Pace yourself. Determine how much time you have and divide that by the remaining number of questions. That’s how long you should spend on each one.
7. Skip answers you don’t know and go back to them. Fresher eyes and perspective might be helpful when you’re done and have time to review.
8. Go ahead and guess if necessary. Answer every question.
9. Avoid absolutes. Answers with always, never, or must are usually wrong.
10. Watch out for questions with “except” or “not” in them. Read them carefully.
11. Read the questions thoroughly, even when they’re overloading you with information. That material will often contain clues for the correct answer.

Trust yourself—you’re prepared. You’ve read the question and each answer. You’ve got this!

Changes to Build Confidence

To get GED ready also means making some lifestyle changes.

Set aside time to study. This can be early in the morning before your day begins or in the evening before bed. Whenever you are at your best and can concentrate on the information is the right time to study.

Keep a positive attitude. Your confidence will grow the more you prepare. Take practice tests until you feel like you’re ready. Repeat positive affirmations along the way—the more you say them, the more you’ll believe them.

Take deep breaths. Make sure each breath is slow and deep. Breathe in through your nose and out through your mouth. This is also a good time to repeat those positive affirmations. Close your eyes if you can and believe it. Meditation is a great way to relax and lower anxiety.

Stay hydrated with water and eat healthy foods. This will improve your ability to sleep through the night. It will also help you stay focused when you’re awake and is especially true for exam day.

Physical activity at least twenty minutes a few days each week. Physical activity, which can include exercise, just like eating right and drinking plenty of water, will help you study and sleep. You’ll also stay positive longer and relax when stress hits you out of the blue.

Don’t forget to factor in some fun. Getting GED ready means getting some rest in between all the work. Try to have one day during the week when you don’t study or worry about what’s next. Every other day, schedule breaks to go outside and get some fresh air. All of this will benefit you on test day.

These tips for better test-taking and lifestyle changes will build your confidence to do this successfully. Don’t wait—start studying for the GED now!

​​GED recognizes that students are most fearful and anxious about the Math test. GED wants to help you prepare for test day by knowing what to expect on the GED math test. You will need to know various concepts, such as:

• Basic Math
• Geometry
• Basic Algebra
• Graphs and Functions

The good news is that you don’t have to memorize formulas. If a problem requires you to solve a formula, that information will be given to you. However, you may still worry about making a calculation mistake. You may wonder: can you use a calculator on the GED?

Calculator for GED Exam

You can use a calculator for the GED exam. However, you can use just one type: the TI-30XS Multiview Scientific Calculator. This calculator comes with your test and is displayed as a digital version, so there’s no need to buy and bring this device with you.

You’ll find that this calculator may work differently from other calculators you’ve used in the past, such as handheld ones and calculators on your phone. That’s why it’s important to become very familiar with the calculator before taking the test. You don’t want to be wasting time trying to figure out how to use the calculator during the exam.

Fortunately, you can find help from tutorials. The TI-30XS Calculator Reference Sheet teaches you how to perform calculations you’ll need to know to pass the GED math test. The GED Test Calculator Tutorial is another step-by-step tutorial you can use to teach you how to move and perform basic functions on the calculator. The tutorial calculator does not have a limit so you can practice for as long as you need to get comfortable with it. You can also practice using the formula sheet so you’ll be well prepared for test day.

Other Tips to Help You Prepare

Now that you know how to use the calculator for the GED exam, here are some other tips to help you pass the exam the first time:

• Free Practice Test– Allows you to attempt questions similar to ones on the GED test. The practice test will show you what you got correct and incorrect and will give you explanations for each question.
• Take an official GED Practice Test. Choose math or another subject for a small fee. You’ll see the types of questions you can expect on test day and be better prepared. You’ll have a good idea of what to expect so you won’t be as nervous.
• Understand your state policies. Make sure you’re aware of the rules and policies that apply in your state before you sign up for the GED exam.
• Take online classes. This online program allows for interactive learning from real instructors. You can take classes at your convenience on various devices.

Get Started with a Free Account

Get started on your journey to earning your GED by signing up for a free account. You will be able to access everything mentioned above and more resources to prepare you for the test.

If you didn’t earn your high school diploma and are past high school age, you may be wondering: Will you still be able to go to college? And can you go to college with a GED?

Fortunately, you can get accepted to college with a GED, which will open countless doors to you as you pursue your career path. And though preparing for the GED will take some time and dedication, preparing for and passing the GED is more accessible than ever before. You can prepare to earn your GED diploma online with courses, practice tests, and more; and in most states, you can also take the test online.

Whether you’re already a working professional, looking for a job, or ready to further your career, here are four reasons a GED is essential to your education.

1. Get Accepted to College

College is one of the best ways to obtain a well-rounded education, kick off your career path, and gain life experience. Higher education offers unparalleled opportunities to network, work on self-development, and discover a career path that excites you.

Most colleges require students to have a high school diploma or a GED to get accepted in today’s world. So if you weren’t able to complete high school, earning a GED is an excellent alternative. A GED will give you the educational foundation comparable to a high school diploma, so you’ll be ready to thrive in college.

2. Gain a Competitive Edge in the Job Market

Do you have your sights set on a specific job? Maybe you want to climb the ladder in the corporate world, start your own business, or become a teacher. In any case, earning your GED will give you a competitive edge in the job market.

The majority of employers look for applicants who have obtained a high school diploma or GED, since these benchmarks demonstrate a baseline knowledge that is relevant to almost every industry. So if you’re looking to stand out in a pile of job applications, make sure you’ve earned your GED.

3. Increase Potential Salary Earnings

After working at a job for a year or more, you’re probably eager to start earning a higher salary. Yet employees who do not have their GED have less leverage when it comes to increasing earnings.

If you’re hoping to make more money in the long run, it’s always wise to get your GED, which will open up opportunities for higher ranking (and higher-paying job positions).

4. Personal Achievement

Maybe you’re happy with your career and content with your current job outlook. Still, earning a GED is an important achievement that will give you great personal satisfaction. You’ll feel a sense of pride knowing you set a goal and made it happen. Nothing can compare to the fulfillment that stems from working hard and gaining an education!

Earn Your GED Today

Ready to enjoy the many benefits of getting your GED? Head to GED Testing Service to get started. Find online GED classes, learn more about test subjects, and take practice tests—all from the comfort of home. Contact us today to learn more.

The holidays are here! During this time, it can be easy to procrastinate. People tend to procrastinate due to the fear of failing, feeling overwhelmed, or getting distracted. Here are a few tips on how you can avoid procrastinating no matter what time of year it is.

Time Management

Managing your time well is an essential way to avoid procrastination. There are countless benefits to having good time management. Some of those benefits include being able to complete your work faster, reduce stress, and prioritize what is most important.

At the start of the day, block out time for your tasks and set aside time to relax. This will help motivate you and keep you accountable!

Hard to decide what to do first? Try organizing your tasks by urgency and importance. For example:

• When something is important and urgent, do it right away.
• If it’s important but doesn’t have a strict deadline, divide that task into pieces so you don’t feel pressured to complete it all at once.
• If it’s urgent but not important, reach out to someone else for help; delegating is often the best solution.
• If it’s not urgent or important, you might not need to do it at all. That’s your call depending on each situation.

Make a Routine

Create a routine that will allow you to form good habits and create goals. Having a weekly routine will help you remain productive during the school year. A weekly routine can consist of following a sleep schedule to make sure you get enough sleep each day, setting aside a specific day for rest, or setting the goal to study five days a week.

Routines make your life less prone to procrastination and encourage you to focus on setting goals and reflecting on your past work.

Create a to-do list

Many students find it helpful to break down tasks into smaller sections. This will help you avoid feeling overwhelmed and will make the task more manageable. Start the day off by writing down everything that you want to complete that day. Place the easier tasks at the top of the list and the more difficult ones at the end. As you complete them, cross off each task to keep track of what you have done. You’ll be amazed how satisfying it feels to strike a line through a task, going from to-do to done!

Hold Yourself Accountable

The best way to avoid distractions and procrastination is to hold yourself accountable. When you’re about to pick up your phone or open a new tab on your browser, pause and rethink your decision. How important is it for you to go on social media or watch that video? The answer: those things can wait!

Focus on the tasks at hand then save those “distractions” as a reward for when you complete the goals you set for yourself.

After all that hard work throughout the year, we want to wish you happiness and relaxation as you wind down to celebrate with family and friends. Rest up and enjoy the holidays! When the New Year picks back up, be sure to visit GED.com for study tips, practice tests, study tools, and more.