Test Strategies

Do you prepare appropriately for tests?
Do you try to integrate material from different sources?
Do you know how to modify your study habits in different types of courses?
Do you review your answers to essay questions?
Do you have problems with specific kinds of tests – multiple choice, essay, true/false, short answer, matching or essay?

If you answered "no" to any of these questions, you need assistance with test strategies!

Good Test Strategies Includes A Good Study Plan

Plan

Plan what you will need to study 
Plan when you will study 
Plan to study the material over several days

Study

Study in a well lit area at the same time each day 
Study in an area free from distraction. 
Study extra sources if possible to enhance your understanding

Don’t

Don’t over-study.  Take a break from studying, watch a movie, take a walk, etc. 

Don’t study up to the last minute.  You will stress yourself and confuse yourself if you try to cram a lot of information into a small amount of time. 

Don’t wait until the day before the test to ask for help from your instructor or tutor.  If you are confused about a concept, ask for help right away. 

Don’t rush through the test.  You may skip a step or skip a question.

Do

Do get enough sleep
Eat a starch, a fruit, and not too much sugar before an exam, according to nutritionists. 
Do get to the test site early 
Do bring extra pencils or pens 
Do have a backup calculator or backup batteries 
Do bring a watch to keep track of how much time you have and to pace yourself. 
Do take a deep breath 
Do take your time and pace yourself. 
Do work methodically through the test by answering all the questions you are sure of first, then going back to the others in the time you have left.
Do make sure that you have an answer for each question.

Good Test Strategies Include Knowing How to Take Exams

During the Test

Read instructions very carefully. 

Answer the easy questions first, go back to the harder questions. 

Budget your time.  Use all of the allotted time. 

Briefly outline what you plan to say.  And use the outline to write your answer. 

Think before you write.  Answer the question that is asked.

Don’t worry about revising or editing. 

Don’t pad your answers, but do include relevant examples. 

Use your own words to express the ideas. 

Bring and use the kind of pencil or pen your instructor requests. 

Be as neat as you can be. 

If you are unsure or confused about a question, ASK the professor. 

Carefully proofread the exam before turning it in. 

Don’t Panic!  Take a moment and breathe several deep breaths.

**If you feel you run out of time when taking tests, you may have extended test time by utilizing Disability Services Office.

After the Test is Returned

Make sure that you are in class the day the test is returned and the professor reviews the answers. 

Check the point total to make sure there were no mistakes in grading. 

Rework the questions you missed.  Try to understand why you missed them. 

Look for the origin of each question.  Did they come from the text?  Lecture?  Outside readings? Concentrate more on the source next time. 

Determine which types of questions you missed so you can practice these for the next test.