Test Taking Strategies, Test Preparation and Reducing Test Anxiety Learning Assistance Center (LAC) University Pavilion, Suite

General Test-Taking Strategies Relax. Look at the test. Read the directions When you are stuck, move on! Ask for clarification Learn from the test. Concentrate despite distractions. Proofread your work

Strategies for Multiple Choice Questions Read the test items carefully and completely. Strike out wrong answers. Mark answers clearly and consistently. Change your answers cautiously. Guess Look for cues. Do not spend time thinking about how the question could have been written better. Check for clues in other questions.

Strategies for True-False Questions Go with your hunch. Don’t look for answer patterns. Honor exceptions to the rule. Analyze qualifying terms.

Strategies for Essay Questions  Anticipate essay questions.  Read carefully.  Analyze the question.  Map your ideas.  Create an outline.  Reflect the question in opening sentence.  Write like a reporter.  Don’t bluff.  Write legibly.  Be careful in use of humor.  Proofread

Test Preparation : Long-term Strategies Pace yourself. Commit to a study group. Compare perspectives. Share hunches. Rotate special assignments.

Test Preparation: Short-term Strategies Know what to expect. Match your study to the test format. Size up the professor. Get an idea of what’s on the test.

Test Preparation: Self-Testing Self-Testing Take practice test Use textbooks and notes to predict exam questions. Use Study Aids Create test-like conditions Create flashcards Create mnemonic devices Record your notes Create study checklists

Reducing Test Anxiety Plan What you will need to study When you will study To study the material over several days Study In a well lit area at the same time each day In an area free from distraction Extra sources if possible to enhance your understanding

Reducing Test Anxiety: Do’s & Dont’s Don’t Over-study Study up to the last minute Wait until the day before the test to ask seek help Do Get enough sleep Eat a starch or fruit Get there early Bring extras Bring a watch Take a deep breath Positive Self-talk Pace yourself Answer each question Avoid drug use!