Indiana Statewide Testing for Educational Progress begins this week, and as 3rd-8th graders and their parents prepare for the annual exam, teachers at Sylvan want to offer their advice on how to approach it.

Don't stress out or try to cram information the night before- that's the major piece of advice Kent Kolbow, owner and teacher at Sylvan Learning Center in Mishawaka, says he wants kids to take away. It's a cumulative test meant to combine knowledge kids have learned over many years of education, so trying to cram the night before won't work.

This particular week focuses on the "applied" testing. Kolbow says, to tackle these, read the problem fully and make sure you understand what the question is asking. Circle numbers and key points in the problem before answering.

Remember, you will receive partial credit, even if you answer incorrectly, for showing your work.

Kolbow suggests kids get a good night's rest the night before, and eat a full breakfast the morning of the test. Stay calm, and use what you know to tackle the test.