Test Taking Tips

Did you know that in true/false questions, there are most questions that have a true response than a false one? Did you know that a good night of sleep is more beneficial than a night without sleep and cramming? Did you know that questions with extremes such as always and never tend to be false?

Before the test:

• Study throughout the semester. Plan study time instead of cramming.
• Get plenty of sleep.
• Eat good food.
• Stay up to date on all assignments -both reading and homework.
• Visit your professor or teacher to clarify any confusing points.
• Practice test taking skills.
• Get practice tests or old tests of the material.
• Arrive early for the test and listen carefully to instructions.
• Create a positive attitude and envision good results.
• Use acronyms.
• Evaluate and grade all practice tests.

During the test:

• Read the instructions!
• Plan your test time by estimating how much time it should take to do each section.
• Take a quick look at the test.
• Do the easiest questions first to boost confidence. Then, do the harder ones.
• Do not leave the problems worth the most points for the end.
• Highlight units (such as inches or centimeters) in problems so you don’t make a simple error.
• Draw a diagram when needed. (Or chart. Or table.)
• Never leave a question blank.
• Plan to finish early to leave time for review.