To get a postal job, employees have to give the postal exam 473 to be eligible for some positions. The entry procedure is very tough due to the importance the postal service has for the economy. Candidates who want to get postal jobs have to study for the postal exam in detail to get jobs as mail processors, postal carriers, mail handlers, machine operators, etc.

This test has a high failure rate which can induce stress in the person sitting down for the postal exam. It has a lot of applicants and students need to study a lot of the exam which can be hard for a lot of students.

It is important to understand that everyone goes through stress before an exam. There are a lot of things you can do to reduce the stress you are feeling. Since exam stress can actually reduce your score it is important to know how to control it.

Get the Material

Most applicants are nervous before the postal exam since they feel as though they are prepared properly. It is important to get the material to study for the postal exam. The best thing about applying for postal jobs is that there are readily available study guides.

The USPS doesn’t provide these guides, but you can look online for this material. Study guides can be really comprehensive and ease your stress while applying for a postal job. They can help you pass the test and give you a great way to remain prepared for the postal exam. The US postal service changes the syllabus often so get updated material to study for the postal exam.

Practice Tests

Applicants may also feel stressed while they are taking the exam or right before the postal exam starts. It is important to get used to the exam conditions before giving the exam if you feel really stressed. Practice tests can make you feel better about the upcoming postal exam.

The US postal exam comes in three sections that include coding and memory, forms completion, and address checking. If you attempt the postal exam without using practice tests, you may become overwhelmed during the postal exam. It is better to invest in study guides that come with practice tests. You can use these to stay prepared for the postal exam.

Time management is also very important during postal exams since they are very comprehensive. If you use practice tests you can time yourself while doing the test. Instead of panicking, you will be doing something more productive with your time.

Take Some Extra Steps

There are always a few things you can do right before the exam that will help keep you calm.

  • Have a light breakfast so you have energy and concentration during the exam
  • Don’t stay up all night to study. Get a good night’s rest before the postal exam.
  • Take some time for deep breathes before starting the exam. It is important you stay relaxed.
  • Have your stationery and clothes organized the night before so you don’t panic in the morning.
  • With the help of study guides, you can remain prepared for the postal exam. Preparation takes away any stress that you may feel and help you in getting a postal job.