How to Conquer ATI TEAS 7 Math Anxiety: 10 Effective Tips

The ATI TEAS 7 is a standardized test designed to evaluate the readiness of students applying for nursing programs. Among the four sections—Reading, Science, English and Language Usage, and Math—the math portion is often the most intimidating. For many test-takers, just seeing a math question can trigger anxiety, even when they’ve studied thoroughly. This emotional barrier is known as math anxiety, and it can severely hinder test performance, regardless of actual skill level.

In this first installment of our three-part series, we will explore what math anxiety is, how it affects performance on the ATI TEAS 7, and what foundational steps you can take to regain control. We’ll cover the first three of ten actionable tips for overcoming this challenge.

What Is Math Anxiety?

Math anxiety is a psychological phenomenon that causes intense feelings of tension, apprehension, or fear when faced with mathematical problems. It doesn’t just affect people who struggle with math; even capable students can suffer from it, especially in high-pressure environments like standardized testing.

These feelings often stem from negative experiences in early education, pressure to perform, or a lack of confidence. Over time, these emotional responses become ingrained, turning math into a trigger for stress, avoidance, and even physical symptoms like rapid heartbeat or nausea.

In the context of the ATI TEAS 7 test, math anxiety can make it difficult to recall even basic formulas, interpret word problems, or manage time efficiently. Many students know the content well but underperform simply because stress clouds their ability to think clearly.

Why the ATI TEAS Math Section Triggers Anxiety

The ATI TEAS 7 math section focuses on core mathematical skills essential for nursing, including arithmetic, algebra, measurement, and data interpretation. The exam consists of 36 questions to be completed in 54 minutes, giving an average of just 90 seconds per question. That’s a tight time frame—especially when anxiety is part of the equation.

The pressure of time limits, fear of failure, and the knowledge that test results could determine admission into a nursing program only intensify anxiety. Moreover, unlike in regular coursework where students have time to ask questions or redo assignments, the stakes of a single exam add another layer of stress.

For students who have avoided math for years or have struggled with it in the past, the ATI TEAS becomes more than a test—it becomes a psychological hurdle.

Signs You Might Be Experiencing Math Anxiety

Recognizing the symptoms of math anxiety is the first step toward managing it. Here are some common signs:

Sweaty palms or increased heart rate when seeing a math problem
Feeling helpless or panicked before or during a math test
Avoiding math-related tasks or studying until the last minute
Forgetting formulas or methods you previously knew
Trouble concentrating or racing thoughts during math practice
Feelings of frustration, anger, or fear when doing math

If any of these symptoms sound familiar, you’re not alone—and there are effective ways to work through them.

How Math Anxiety Affects Test Performance

It’s not just in your head—math anxiety has measurable effects on performance. Research shows that anxiety can impair working memory, which is critical for solving math problems that require multiple steps or logical reasoning. When anxiety takes hold, the brain prioritizes emotional responses over cognitive functions, making it harder to concentrate, recall information, or apply logic.

This mental block can lead to a vicious cycle: you worry, which causes mistakes, which then reinforces your belief that you’re “bad at math.” Over time, this belief becomes self-fulfilling unless it’s interrupted by new strategies and ways of thinking.

Tip 1: Know What to Expect

The first strategy to overcome math anxiety is to understand exactly what you’re facing. Fear thrives in the unknown. When you become familiar with the structure and content of the ATI TEAS 7 math section, the exam becomes more manageable and less intimidating.

Understand the Test Format

The math section of the ATI TEAS 7 includes questions on:

Numbers and algebra: solving equations, working with decimals, percentages, and ratios
Measurement and data: interpreting charts, measuring units, and solving word problems

You’ll have 54 minutes to answer 36 questions. These may be multiple choice or alternate formats like fill-in-the-blank. Knowing this in advance allows you to practice under similar conditions and mentally prepare for the pacing.

Use Official Prep Materials

One of the most effective ways to know what to expect is by using official ATI TEAS practice materials. These resources are designed to mirror the actual exam, helping you become familiar with question types, difficulty levels, and timing. The more you expose yourself to the exam style, the less anxious you’ll feel when test day arrives.

Tip 2: Start Your Preparation Early

Anxiety often arises from feeling unprepared. Starting your preparation early gives you enough time to master concepts at a comfortable pace, rather than rushing through the material at the last minute.

Build a Study Schedule

Set a realistic timeline for reviewing all topics covered in the ATI TEAS math section. Break the material down into weekly or daily goals, depending on how much time you have before the exam. A consistent schedule reduces the temptation to cram and allows concepts to sink in gradually.

For example:

Week 1: Arithmetic and number properties
Week 2: Fractions, ratios, and proportions
Week 3: Percentages and basic algebra
Week 4: Measurement and data interpretation

Try to study 4–5 days a week for 30 to 60 minutes each session. The key is consistency. Small, daily efforts are much more effective and less stressful than marathon study sessions.

Use Active Learning Techniques

Don’t just passively read formulas or notes. Instead:

Solve practice problems
Teach the material to someone else
Use flashcards
Watch video tutorials for visual explanations

Engaging actively with the content helps you retain it longer and makes the study process more enjoyable and less stressful.

Tip 3: Review Regularly

When you study early, there’s a risk that you’ll forget material you covered in the beginning. That’s why regular review is essential—it keeps earlier concepts fresh and reduces last-minute panic.

Implement Spaced Repetition

Spaced repetition is a learning technique where you review information at increasing intervals over time. For example, if you study percentages on Monday, review them briefly again on Wednesday and then once more the following week. This technique is scientifically proven to improve long-term retention and reduce anxiety caused by forgetfulness.

Apps like Anki or Quizlet can help automate spaced repetition for formulas and math rules. You can create your own flashcards or use decks shared by others preparing for the ATI TEAS.

Mix New and Old Topics

In each study session, mix newly learned topics with older ones. For example, if you’ve just learned proportions, do a few problems on that, but also throw in a few percentage or fraction problems. This will reinforce earlier lessons and reduce the fear of forgetting material.

Additional Insight: The Emotional Side of Test Preparation

While strategies like knowing the test format and reviewing material are essential, it’s equally important to address the emotional toll that test preparation can take. Many students feel guilty for not doing more, or they compare themselves to others and feel inferior. These emotional pressures compound math anxiety and can derail your motivation.

Replace Negative Self-Talk

If you catch yourself saying things like “I’m just not a math person,” try replacing those thoughts with something constructive like, “I’m learning new math skills every day,” or “I’ve struggled before, but that doesn’t define my future.”

Positive affirmations may feel awkward at first, but over time they can shift your mindset. A healthy mindset helps lower anxiety and improves your ability to focus and perform.

Celebrate Small Wins

Every time you solve a tough problem, complete a study session, or recall a formula from memory, take a moment to celebrate. These small victories build confidence and reinforce the idea that you’re making progress—even if it’s gradual.

In this first part of our three-part series on overcoming ATI TEAS 7 math anxiety, we explored the roots of math anxiety and how it affects your performance. We also introduced three foundational strategies to help you manage anxiety: knowing what to expect, starting your preparation early, and reviewing regularly.

The journey to overcoming test anxiety doesn’t happen overnight. It takes time, strategy, and emotional awareness. But the good news is that with the right mindset and preparation plan, you can transform anxiety into confidence.

We’ll dive deeper into specific study habits and coping mechanisms to further reduce anxiety. We’ll look at how to face your math fears directly, build a structured study routine, and stay emotionally balanced throughout your prep.

Practical Study Habits to Build Confidence and Control Anxiety

In the first part of this series, we explored the causes and effects of ATI TEAS math anxiety and introduced three foundational strategies: knowing what to expect, preparing early, and reviewing regularly. In Part 2, we’ll go further by addressing how to restructure your study habits and internal responses so you can handle stress before and during the test.

This installment focuses on Tips 4 through 7 of our top 10 strategies, each designed to help you develop a healthier relationship with math while maintaining momentum in your test preparation.

Tip 4: Face Your Math Fears Head-On

It’s natural to want to avoid the topics or question types that intimidate you, but doing so only gives those fears more power. Instead of skipping over hard material, make it a priority. The only way to reduce fear is to confront it in a controlled, low-stakes environment.

Identify the Specific Problems That Trigger Anxiety

Not all math is equally intimidating. For some students, it’s algebra; for others, it’s word problems. Start by identifying which types of questions make you the most uncomfortable. Write them down, and then create a focused plan to tackle each one.

For example:

If fractions confuse you, review fraction operations using visual models and solve at least five problems a day.
If word problems stress you out, practice breaking them down into steps and highlight keywords that guide your solution.

Use Practice to Desensitize Yourself

Exposure reduces fear. The more you practice difficult problems, the more routine they become. Mistakes are part of learning—welcome them as feedback. Over time, you’ll not only improve your skills, but you’ll also build resilience.

Set aside “fear-facing” sessions in your study schedule—periods where you deal only with the problems you dislike. Work in short, focused intervals so your brain doesn’t get overwhelmed.

Embrace the Confusion

Confusion is not a sign of failure—it’s a sign that you’re learning. When you struggle with a concept, remind yourself that this process is necessary for mastery. Talk through your thought process aloud, or write it down to help clarify your reasoning. These practices also calm mental chaos, making problems easier to solve.

Tip 5: Treat Studying Like a Job (Clock In and Out)

When your study routine is vague or open-ended, it’s easy for anxiety to sneak in. You might find yourself thinking about the ATI TEAS even when you’re not actively studying, which can lead to burnout and constant stress. To regain control, add structure to your routine by “clocking in and out.”

Create a Structured Study Schedule

Pick specific times each day to study ATI TEAS math, and treat these blocks as appointments you must keep. For example, you might decide:

Monday to Friday: 6:30–7:30 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM–12:00 PM
Sunday: off (for rest or review only)

During study time, focus fully. Turn off distractions like your phone or TV. When time’s up, stop—even if you haven’t finished a section. This trains your brain to focus better during the allotted time and helps you avoid the guilt that comes with inconsistent studying.

Protect Your Mental Space When You’re “Off the Clock”

When you’re not studying, resist the urge to worry about what you still need to learn. That might sound impossible at first, but you can develop this habit by giving yourself permission to enjoy non-study activities guilt-free.

Activities like walking, journaling, or spending time with loved ones give your mind space to relax and recharge. Rest isn’t a luxury—it’s an essential part of effective learning. Reducing all-day anxiety starts with having clear boundaries.

Tip 6: Start With Easy Math Problems to Build Confidence

When you begin each study session or test with questions you’re comfortable with, you create early wins. These small victories improve focus, boost motivation, and build confidence—critical ingredients for overcoming anxiety.

The Psychological Benefit of Early Wins

Confidence has a momentum effect. Solving a few easy problems first tells your brain, “I’ve got this.” It activates a success mindset and reduces the internal noise that often comes with fear and doubt.

This doesn’t mean you should avoid challenging questions entirely—just delay them slightly. Once your confidence is up, your mind will be more open to tackling difficult material without panic.

Apply This Strategy on Test Day

On the ATI TEAS, you don’t have to answer questions in order. Scan the math section for questions that seem manageable and answer them first. Then loop back to the harder ones. This strategy ensures you don’t waste time struggling early, which can drain your energy and heighten anxiety.

For instance:

See a problem with simple percentage calculations? Do that first.
Is there a question with multiple steps and unfamiliar terminology? Flag it and return after you’ve warmed up.

Remember, your goal is to maximize correct answers within the time limit—not to finish in order.

Tip 7: Shift Your Mindset Around Math

Perhaps the most important step in managing math anxiety is changing how you view math itself. If you constantly tell yourself that you’re “just not good at math” or that it’s “too hard,” you reinforce the anxiety you’re trying to eliminate.

Changing your internal dialogue and perspective on math can be a turning point in your test prep journey.

Reframe Negative Thoughts

Instead of thinking:

“I’m not good at math,” try: “I’m improving my math skills every day.”
“I hate studying for this,” try: “This is one step toward achieving my goal of becoming a nurse.”

These shifts might seem small, but they make a difference. Thoughts shape emotions, and emotions shape behaviors. Cultivating a more supportive inner voice helps you stay calm, focused, and motivated.

Make Math Fun and Engaging

If math feels boring or stressful, find ways to make it enjoyable. Here are a few ideas:

Use online games or apps that turn math into interactive challenges.
Study with a friend and quiz each other.
Set small goals and reward yourself when you meet them (a favorite snack, a walk, a break).

Learning doesn’t have to be dull. The more enjoyable your practice, the less anxious you’ll feel.

Understand That Struggle Is Part of Learning

Even people who are great at math encounter problems they can’t solve immediately. Struggling with a problem doesn’t mean you’ve failed—it means your brain is stretching. With each effort, you’re building neural pathways that will make future problems easier to solve.

When you shift your mindset from perfectionism to progress, your relationship with math changes—and so does your confidence.

Bonus Technique: Study in a Calm Environment

Where you study can influence how much anxiety you feel. If your study space is loud, cluttered, or filled with distractions, your brain associates math with stress. On the other hand, a calm and organized environment can make studying feel more manageable.

Set the Stage for Focus

Here’s how to create a math-friendly environment:

Choose a quiet place with minimal distractions
Keep only what you need (notebooks, calculator, pencils) on your desk
Use calming background music (instrumentals or white noise)
Have a bottle of water nearby
Set a timer so you know when to stop

Creating a peaceful space reduces background stress and tells your brain, “This is a safe place to learn.”

Progress Over Perfection

Overcoming ATI TEAS 7 math anxiety is not about eliminating fear altogether—it’s about learning to manage it. You don’t need to feel 100% confident every day. What matters is taking small, consistent steps that build your understanding, increase your confidence, and improve your emotional resilience.

In of the series, we explored:

Facing your fears directly
Creating a structured and focused study schedule
Building confidence through early wins
Shifting your mindset to support rather than sabotage your learning

These strategies help you build a healthy relationship with math—and by extension, reduce the anxiety that comes with it.

We’ll cover lifestyle and test-day strategies to help you manage anxiety in real-time, including rest, nutrition, writing exercises, and breathing techniques. These tools round out your preparation by ensuring your body and mind are fully aligned for test day success.

You’ve already taken big steps by reading this far. Keep going—you’re building not just math skills but also the emotional strength to succeed.

Test-Day Strategies and Lifestyle Changes to Conquer Math Fear

In the first two parts of this series, we explored academic and emotional strategies to help you deal with ATI TEAS 7 math anxiety. From learning what to expect and practicing early, to facing your fears and reframing your mindset, we’ve laid the foundation for confident preparation.

Now in Part 3, we focus on the final four tips: how your physical health, emotional awareness, and test-day behaviors play a critical role in minimizing anxiety. These strategies are simple but powerful. When combined with effective study habits, they help you perform your best when it matters most.

Tip 8: Take Care of Your Body to Support Your Brain

When you think about preparing for the ATI TEAS 7 Math Test, you probably think about textbooks, formulas, and worksheets. But your body is part of the preparation, too. If you’re exhausted, dehydrated, or malnourished, your brain won’t function at its best—no matter how much you’ve studied.

Prioritize Sleep

Sleep is not just rest—it’s when your brain processes and stores what you’ve learned. A full night of sleep strengthens memory, boosts problem-solving skills, and helps regulate stress hormones. Skimping on sleep the night before the test can undo weeks of hard work.

Aim for:

7 to 9 hours of sleep every night, especially in the week leading up to the test
A consistent sleep schedule—even on weekends
Avoiding screens and caffeine at least one hour before bed

Eat Brain-Boosting Foods

Nutrition directly affects brain performance. Before a study session or the test itself, avoid heavy, greasy meals that can make you sluggish. Instead, fuel your brain with:

Whole grains (oatmeal, whole wheat toast)
Healthy fats (avocados, nuts, olive oil)
Lean proteins (eggs, yogurt, chicken)
Hydrating fruits and vegetables (oranges, spinach, cucumbers)

Don’t forget to drink water. Even mild dehydration can reduce concentration and memory.

Move Your Body

Physical activity increases blood flow to your brain and boosts mood-regulating chemicals like serotonin and dopamine. Even a 20-minute walk can help reduce stress, sharpen focus, and elevate energy levels.

Incorporate daily movement:

Stretch before studying
Walk between study sessions
Consider light exercise the morning of your test

Your brain functions best when your body is well cared for.

Tip 9: Write About Your Emotions Before the Test

Many students don’t realize the power of expressive writing. If you’re overwhelmed by stress or negative thoughts before the ATI TEAS math section, writing them down can help you process and release them.

Why Writing Works

Research from the University of Chicago showed that students who spent 10 minutes writing about their test anxieties before the exam performed significantly better than those who didn’t. Why? Because writing helps:

Declutter your mind
Identify irrational fears
Create distance between you and your anxiety

When you express your feelings on paper, you’re no longer carrying them silently in your mind. That release clears mental space for logic, focus, and clarity.

How to Do It

Set a timer for 10 minutes and write whatever comes to mind about the test:

What are you worried about?
What thoughts keep repeating?
What would you say to encourage a friend in your situation?

Don’t worry about grammar or structure. This is for your eyes only.

Do this exercise the night before or the morning of your exam. You might be surprised at how much calmer and more focused you feel afterward.

Tip 10: Practice Deep Breathing to Calm Your Body and Mind

When anxiety strikes, your body reacts with symptoms like shallow breathing, muscle tension, and a racing heart. These physical symptoms make it harder to think clearly, which can make math questions seem harder than they actually are.

Deep breathing is one of the fastest and most effective ways to reverse this cycle. It helps you regain control over your nervous system and restore mental clarity.

The 4-7-8 Breathing Technique

This simple breathing method takes less than a minute and can be done anytime—even during the test:

Inhale deeply through your nose for 4 seconds

Hold your breath for 7 seconds

Exhale slowly through your mouth for 8 seconds

Repeat the cycle 2 to 4 times

This technique slows your heart rate, relaxes your muscles, and signals your brain that you’re safe. It’s a proven method to quickly reduce anxiety and bring your focus back to the present.

When to Use It

Before you begin the math section of the ATI TEAS
During practice sessions to build the habit
Any time you feel overwhelmed or stuck on a question

The key is consistency. If you practice this technique regularly, it becomes a natural reflex you can rely on under pressure.

A Healthy Mindset on Test Day: It’s Okay to Feel Nervous

Let’s face it—some level of anxiety is completely normal before a high-stakes test like the ATI TEAS. The goal is not to eliminate every ounce of nervousness, but to reduce it to a manageable level.

Reframe Test Day Nerves

Instead of thinking, “I’m anxious,” tell yourself:

“I’m excited to show what I’ve learned.”
“These feelings mean I care about doing well.”
“A little stress gives me energy and focus.”

This small shift in language can transform anxiety into motivation.

Arrive Early and Prepared

To reduce day-of anxiety:

Get to the test center early to avoid rushing
Bring everything you need (ID, calculator if allowed, pencils)
Wear comfortable clothes
Use the bathroom beforehand
Do a few deep breathing cycles before you enter the room

When you eliminate as many external stressors as possible, your mind has more room to focus on the test.

Recap: The Full 10 Tips to Overcome ATI TEAS Math Anxiety

Let’s review all the strategies we’ve covered across this 3-part series:

Know what to expect
Understand the format and content of the ATI TEAS math section.

Start your preparations early
Give yourself plenty of time to learn and review.

Review regularly
Spaced repetition helps reinforce math concepts and reduce panic.

Face your fears
Confront difficult problems head-on to desensitize your anxiety.

Clock in and out
Create a consistent study schedule with built-in breaks.

Solve the easy problems first
Start with confidence-boosting questions to build momentum.

Change your attitude
Adopt a growth mindset and find enjoyable ways to engage with math.

Take care of your body
Support your brain through sleep, nutrition, hydration, and movement.

Write about your emotions
Expressive writing before the test helps release mental clutter.

Take deep breaths
Use breathing techniques to calm your nervous system in real-time.

These tips are most effective when practiced consistently. You don’t need to master them all at once. Start with the ones that resonate with you most, and gradually incorporate the rest.

Final Words of Encouragement

Math anxiety doesn’t mean you’re bad at math—it means you’ve been conditioned to feel fear around it. That fear can be reversed, one step at a time. Every study session you complete, every practice test you take, and every technique you try makes you stronger.

You are not alone. Thousands of students struggle with math anxiety and go on to succeed—because they don’t give up. They learn to manage their stress, not be controlled by it.

The ATI TEAS is just one part of your journey. Whether you’re pursuing a career in nursing, allied health, or another medical field, your determination matters more than any single test score.

You are capable. You are improving. And with the right tools, you will succeed.