Test Taking Strategies for Test Day Presented by the Academic and Career Advisement Center Adapted from Colleen Gaffney

Plan of Action Preview the test. Plan how you will use your time. Notice important words. Rephrase questions. Check your work. Review the test before handing it in.

Preview Carefully read the directions to each section. –You want to be sure that you are following the directions exactly as they are written. –If you have questions, ask the professor. What type of questions are on the test? –Short answer and essay tests often have more detailed directions than multiple choices exams. How many points is each question worth? –Where should you place priority? –What should you complete first? Do you answer directly on the test or on a separate sheet? Always check BOTH SIDES…there may be questions on the back side.

Use Your Time How much time do you have to complete the entire test? How many questions are on the test? How much time can you spend on each question? Extra pencils/pens? Try to strategize with your time. –Easy question? Less time needed. –Tough question? More time needed. –Lots of questions? Keep an eye on the clock.

Important Words Simple –Name –List –Define –Answers are usually straight forward, and often rely on memorization. –You are not asked to analyze or think critically. Complex –Discuss –Describe –Outline –Compare/Contrast –Summarize –These types of questions test your application of concepts. –They require more critical thinking, and answers require development of ideas. –You are attempting to show your multi-level understanding of material. Other –Never –Most –Not –These are usually found on multiple choice exams.

Rephrase Underline/circle important words in the directions. Reread the directions or questions to make sure they are clear. If need be, try to rephrase the question in a manner that you can better understand. Be careful that your rewording does not cause you to answer incorrectly. You want to avoid “over-thinking” questions. That can sometimes lead to more confusion. If you are unsure, always ask the professor for clarification. huh?

Check Yourself Concentrate on the test. –Avoid potential distractions. –Don’t worry about other students in the room. –Focus on the questions. Keep an eye on the time. Strategize! –Answer the easiest question(s) first. –Return to difficult question(s). –Use all of the time allotted. Avoid the avoidable. –Simple mistakes…2+2=5? –Does one answer contradict another? –Did you miss any questions? Review…Review…Review… –Take one final look at the test, just to be sure. –Complete any items you’ve overlooked. –Avoid changing answers…unless you are certain that you need to make a correction.

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