Studying for your test at school can sometimes make you feel a bit stressed or worried. Here’s some advice to help you feel more relaxed and help things work     21    .

Don’t compare yourself     22     your friends.

Everyone learns things     23    （different）and some people find things easier than others. Choose a review plan that works best for you. It’s fine if it’s different from your friends’.

If you’re under too much       24    , talk to someone.

It could be a friend, a teacher or one of your family     25    （member）. Don’t feel like you’re letting people down by admitting（承认）you’re feeling stressed. I     26    , communicate with them. They’ll be happy that you would like to share your feelings with     27    （they）, and will hopefully help you to feel better.

Try to take regular breaks during your review.

It will help give your brain time to process（处理）all the information you’re     28    （learn）. You could just close your eyes and relax for a few minutes.

Look after your body.

It’s important to try to eat well and get lots of sleep before a test. If you don’t give your mind a rest,     29    （可能）it won’t work so well.

Doing exercise really helps.

Whether you’re playing     30    （足球）, going for a walk or riding your bike, exercise can really help you to feel less stressed. Then you can feel better and get more energy!

I feel that I've grown up and should make my own decisions, but my parents disagree. My mom still helps me choose what clothes to wear. My dad asks me to pay attention only to study. I know they do this out of love, but I feel controlled. What should I do?

Amanda

Your parents sound very strict. It's hard to believe that your mom chooses what you wear. Are you a Barbie doll?

Try to take the first step when possible. Dress yourself before your mother has a chance to come in and choose your clothes. If she asks you to change, tell her you'll be late for school.

You should also talk to her. Ask about her choices: What makes a set of clothes acceptable or unacceptable? Tell her you will follow her rules, but you want to make the choices. You are not in first grade. You are a young lady in high school.

As for your father, it's difficult to argue with his mind. After all, he is not totally wrong. How strict is he? Does he lock you up with your textbooks? Are you allowed to have a hobby? Are you allowed to have a smartphone? Are you allowed to hang out with friends?

Such strict parents should know the law of diminishing returns (收益递减). A weightlifter, for example, can only lift for an hour or two each day. If she does more, her muscles will not become stronger. She will just get tired. She may even hurt herself!

Our brains also have limits. Some violin teachers say you should only practice a new skill for 15 minutes each day. Our brains need to relax and understand new information. Our brains also have a basic need to socialize (社交). Ask your father: what is the meaning of so much studying if it makes you feel unhappy?

Stay strong.

Daniel