Test Taking Strategies  2 

1. In class, a day or so before the test, ask the teacher to point out any major similarities or differences among the various types of problems you will encounter on the test.  

2. Pay careful attention to directions.  

3. Be sure to completely erase incorrect answers.  

4. Preview a test before you begin to answer any items. This gets you thinking about the material.  

5. Do a mind dump! Using what you saw in the preview, make mental notes of anything you think you might forget.  

6. Answer the easy questions first. This will give you confidence and momentum to get through the rest of the test.  

7. Use all of the time allotted for the test. If you have extra time, cover up your answers and rework problems.  

8. Eliminate any answers you know to be wrong, are likely to be wrong, don’t seem to fit, or where two options are so similar as to be both incorrect.  

9. REVIEW! Resist the urge to stop as soon as you have completed all the answers. Review your test for any noticeable mistakes and that you have answered all items.  

10. Do not “second-guess” yourself and change your original answers. Research has indicated that your first hunch is more likely to be correct.  

11. Arrive early for your test and bring all the materials you will need; such as: pens, pencils, scratch paper, etc.  

12. Stay relaxed and confident. Remind yourself that you are well prepared and are going to do well. 

13. If you find yourself getting anxious or overwhelmed, take a few deep breaths to relax.