How to Take Tests

Preparation for Taking a Test

1. When the test is scheduled, analyze how much material will be covered and how much time is needed to review.
2. Identify the material you have difficulty understanding and with which you may need assistance. Find answers to your questions as soon as possible.
3. Review class notes and notes made when reading. Make additional notes from your textbooks to clarify the material.
4. Do not cram. Don’t resort to frenzied, last-minute preparation.
5. Check your recall of main points and important facts by reciting them aloud.
6. Plan your studying so that you finish early and get a good rest on the night before an examination.
7. Once you have completed a careful and thorough review, try to forget about the test. Be confident—you have done your best.
8. Arrive at the test a few minutes early in order to take some time to relax. Don’t eat just before an exam.

During the Exam

1. When the examination starts, take a few deep breaths, relax your body, and clear your mind of all anxiety. You are now ready to take the test and to do well on it.
2. Read the entire exam and each question carefully. Be sure you follow the instructions.
3. Answer the questions about which you know the most first, leaving space for those you will work on later.
4. Skip those questions that you cannot answer immediately. The answer may come to you later.
5. Timing is important. Plan your time. Do not rush. Answering 10 questions poorly may give you a lower score than answering nine questions slowly but more completely. Be sure to allow some time to go over your answers, correct spelling and punctuation errors, and fill in omissions.
6. When the test is over, forget it. If you studied each day and in your review, you should do well on your exams.