Test-Taking Tips
The word
“test” often elicits feelings worry and maybe even panic.
However, with proper study habits, preparation, and helpful
tips, tests should no longer strike fear in your heart!
Test anxiety
is usually confused with poor preparation. Make sure you
know the difference between the two.
Bring at least
two pens/pencils with good erasers, calculator with enough
batteries and any other resources that your instructor allows
you to.
Read the
directions. It may seem obvious but it’s important to make sure
the directions are clear and understandable. Ask the professor
if you need clarification.
If you have the
time, briefly glance over the entire test so you can get a feel
for how to balance your time. If allowed, jot down notes, key
terms, and comments that come to mind.
Bring a watch
to the test with you so that you can better pace yourself and
budget your time accordingly.
Keep a positive
attitude throughout the whole test and try to stay relaxed. If
you start to feel nervous, take a few deep breaths to relax.
Don’t cheat and
don’t appear to be cheating. Keep your eyes on your own paper.
Do the easiest
problems first. This will build your confidence to tackle the
tougher questions/problems. It will also help you avoid getting
stuck on tough questions and losing time! Come back later to the
questions you skip. There might be something on another part of
the test that will help you with specifically tough questions.
Read the entire
question entirely and look for keywords. Always read the whole
question carefully. Don't make assumptions about what the
question might be.
With tough
questions eliminate the answers you know are wrong. With essay
questions, briefly outline your main points and the order in
which will make most sense to explain your topic.
Write legibly.
If the grader can't read what you wrote they'll most likely mark
it wrong.
Don't worry if
others finish before you. It’s not always likely that they did
well. Focus on your test.
Don't assume that an answer is too obvious and would likely be
wrong. Most professors don't create tests to trick you.
When you are
finished, if you have time left look over your test, make sure
that you have answered all the questions. Only change an answer
if you misread or misinterpreted the question because the
first answer that you put is usually the correct one. Watch
out for careless mistakes and proofread your essay and/or
short answer questions. For math tests, make sure decimal
points, fractions, integers, etc. are clear and legible.
Resources:
http://www.testtakingtips.com/test/gentest.htm
http://www.studygs.net/tsttak1.htm
