MCA II Tests Helping Your Student Get Ready for Tests  • Study regularly: Taking good notes and studying every day helps students     succeed.  • Get a good night’s sleep: Adolescents need a minimum of eight hours of sleep a     night • Believe in your student’s success: Talk about assignments and the school day.     Provide encouragement and support. • Encourage your student to listen to all test-taking directions given by the teacher     and to ask questions about any directions that are unclear. • Share these tips for reducing stress: use positive self-talk (“I know I can do     this”), avoid being rushed and take deep breaths.