Embedded Files
Be prepared
If you don't know the test material, all the test taking strategies in the world won't save you. Preparation is key. Spend as much time necessary to understand the material that will be covered on the test.
Always arrive early and take a moment to relax
Arriving early may allow you time to ask any last minute questions from the instructor or listen to explanations being provided to other students. You'll increase your confidence to take time to relax before the test. You'll also be able to arrive to narrow focus for the upcoming test.
Eat a healthy breakfast
Never take a test on an empty stomach! A healthy breakfast is the first step in properly preparing for an exam.
Listen attentively to last minute instructions given by the instructor
It is not uncommon for teachers to alter test details at the last minute. If you miss test instructions, test taking anxiety will increase.
Do a memory dump
A memory dump can be particularly useful strategy for improving performance on certain types of tests
As soon as you begin the test, write down information that you will likely need to know for the test (i.e. formulas, equations, dates, lists, etc.)
Drink water before and during the test
Staying hydrated for your test will help your brain work better. If you can, sip on water throughout the test.
Read the test directions very carefully and watch for details
Always read all directions carefully to ensure you understand what is being asked. It is not uncommon to have two correct answers on a multiple choice question. Pay attention to details.
Plan how you will use the allotted time
Take a moment to estimate how much time you'll have for each section of the test and each question. Allow enough time for difficult questions.
Pace yourself so you can complete the test in the allotted time frame. Complete the questions that you know first, then come back and tackle the problems you're not sure about after.
Look for cues
If two answers are similar, they're usually not the correct answer.
Pay attention to grammatical matching between the question being asked and answers. If an answer seems right but doesn't match grammatically with the question, it probably isn't the correct answer.
Answer all the questions
Even if you're running out of time and can't answer all the questions fully, it's important to answer all questions.
Rely on your first impression
The first answer that pops in your mind is usually the correct answer. Don't change answers unless you're sure the answer you've chosen is wrong.
Multiple Choice Testing Tips
Evaluate each possible answer in relation to the question or statement and NOT in relation to other answers unless choosing the best answer among several correct ones.
2. If the correct answer isn't obvious, read the question along with each answer. It's easier to spot a match this way.
3. Analyze questions and code answers. For example, mark obviously incorrect answers with a "-" or "no" and possibly correct answers with a "+" or "poss" and then choose among the “+” or “poss” options.
4. If the correct answer to a question is not known, code the question to be considered later (possibly with a large ? in the margin) and skip the question for now. Look for clues to this answer in later questions and answers. Jot these clues in the margin to use when reconsidering skipped questions.
5. Before turning in an exam, reread each question and answer. Unless you are ABSOLUTELY CERTAIN an answer is wrong, DO NOT CHANGE IT. First impressions are more often right than wrong.
6. If you have to guess, avoid choosing options you never heard of or options with absolutes in them such as always, never, only, none, ever, etc.
7. Circle "Key Words". "Key words" reveal the subject of a question and what to look for in an answer. Example - Which is a false statement about the nucleolus? The "Key Word" false tells you to look for a wrong answer while the word nucleolus tells you the subject to which the false statement relates.
8. Budget time for each question. Divide the number of minutes available for taking an exam by the number of questions plus one. This way you'll know approximately how much time to spend on each question and leave time to re-check answers. Allow more time for essay answers.
9. The number one test taking technique is to KNOW YOUR FACTS COLD. There is no substitute for knowing your subject well when taking a test. All the test taking techniques in the world won’t help much if you don’t know your material.
Page updated
Report abuse