Grace Grandstrand

Testing stuperstitions help student’s confidence when testing

Towards the end of the school year, Benilde St. Margaret’s students are in the thick of test-taking, but their preparation goes beyond hours of studying or reviewing notes. Many students need a bit more than their knowledge, they need luck. Whether it’s a particular bracelet, a favorite pencil, a specific meal, or a carefully repeated ritual, student superstitions remain alive and well in classrooms.

While studying may be a very helpful tactic, students like to use specific objects to try to get them a good grade. These items can vary wildly, it could be a piece of clothing, a necklace or bracelet, or maybe a lucky writing utensil. “I have a lucky test pencil,” said sophomore Mary Waters.

Objects may be a good support, but students also like to perform a certain ritual before they take their tests to help prepare them to work better. This could be a meal, going on a walk before, drinking a certain drink, or more. These make them feel confident and ready to go in and crush the test. “I forgot to do it for my chem test, and I don’t think I did good, but then I did during my math test, and I did good on that,” said sophomore Annie Mullin.

Having a certain ritual or object to help send support on their test is surprisingly popular among students. Many students say that these superstitions make them feel calmer and more confident during their tests, making it easier for them to focus and do their best. The absence of the ritual/item can cause anxiety and stress because they lose a source of comfort and stability, but having it there gives reassurance. “When I don’t have it, then I get in my head, and I start to get nervous,” said Mullin.

Superstitions like these are a coping mechanism, giving comfort and reducing anxiety. Even a small sense of control could improve test performance in high-pressure situations like testing. While some may believe they do, these rituals do not have superpowers, they do carry emotional support, leaving students grounded, focused, and ready to face their tests ahead. “I like using the same pencil every time because then there is nothing different about how I am testing,” said Waters.

These rituals are not guaranteed results, but they do carry meaning, and whether it’s something worn, eaten, or held, these practices can help students feel ready. As long as they continue to bring confidence and calm, superstitions are likely to stick around. “It’s an evil eye, so it’s like a good luck during the test,” said Mullin.