Congratulations for clicking this blog! You made the extra effort to learn how to prepare for a polygraph examination. Knowing what to do prior to taking a polygraph is important; therefore, please continue reading for some good tips.
I hear so many people say, “I’m going to fail because I’m so nervous”. The first thing you need to do is take a deep breath. Telling the truth is easy! This guide provides several good tips and hopefully reduces some of the anxiety.
It’s important to remember that each test is unique. The phases in the testing process are similar, but there are different techniques available to the examiner. Therefore, it’s a good idea to limit your research on polygraph. Don’t be influenced by Anti-Polygraph websites because they are known for increasing your anxiety prior to testing.
Our goal is to provide good tips that you can do prior to testing. Don’t be afraid to contact the examiner for advice because this is a reliable resource that can help you prepare for a polygraph. Most private examiners have websites with their contact information. Additionally, their website might have good tips on how to prepare for a polygraph. Feel free to contact our office with any questions or concerns.
Get a Good Night’s Sleep
It’s important to get a good night’s sleep prior to taking your test. Think of a job interview. Would you show up tired for a job interview? Of course not, so get a good night’s sleep and don’t be tired.
The time of your appointment should be taking into consideration. You might have to adjust your schedule for either a morning or afternoon examination. For example, some people work the midnight shift. An afternoon examination is probably better so you can get some rest during the day.
The length of the examination is equally important. A polygraph examination is around three hours long. Some are shorter, but two to three hours is the average. You have to be well rested during the entire process. Therefore, get plenty of sleep is a good idea to prepare for a polygraph.
The following are good tips to getting a good night’s sleep:
- Improve your sleep environment
- Relax and clear your mind
- Don’t consume caffeine late in the day
Maintain a Normal Routine
Maintaining a normal routine is important for polygraph testing. I was told by an examinee that she didn’t drink coffee because caffeine will mess up the test. No, this is not true. You should feel comfortable during testing; therefore, maintain your normal routine is recommended.
Your health is very important! Take your prescribed medications as directed by your doctor. Also, write a list of all your medications and give it to the examiner during testing.
Eating is a normal routine. It’s a good idea to maintain your eating habits to prepare for a polygraph. Skipping a meal can make you feel uncomfortable and possibly lose focus during testing. Eating too much can also make you feel uncomfortable. So, maintaining a normal eating habit is important. We want you to feel comfortable during testing.
Here are examples to consider:
- Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
- Take your prescribed medication as directed by a doctor
- Coffee
- Exercise
- A good night’s sleep
Polygraph Research
Researching polygraph on the internet can be exhausting. There are a variety of Anti-Polygraph websites that express their opinion on polygraph. I hear so many people say that they went on a particular website and the contents increased their anxiety. It is our opinion that if these websites increase your anxiety, please limit your research. Each examiner is unique and the entire process is communicated in the pre-testing phase of the examination. You will be well informed of the entire process at the start of the test.
Don’t hesitate to reach out to the examiner for any questions on polygraph. This is a reliable source for research and can assist with your important questions and help you prepare for a polygraph. The State of Michigan is a polygraph licensing state. Feel free to check on their license in the LARA website.
Conclusion
In conclusion, hopefully this blog helps you prepare for a polygraph. Get plenty of sleep, maintain a normal routine and reach out to the examiner for any polygraph questions.
Motor City Polygraph, LLC is available for any polygraph questions. Feel free to contact us on our website.