1. Studying for Tests and Exams

2. Studying for Tests and Exams
During the Course
Preparing to Study
Studying Process
During the Test or Exam

3. Note Taking During the unit/course Near the end of the unit/course
Dates
Highlighted concepts
Reviews for quizzes/tests
Near the end of the unit/course
Ensure completeness
Clarify concepts
After the unit/course
Do you know the test/exam format?

4. Time & Space Know your test/exam schedule
Prepare a physical space (desk, materials, no distractions)
Relax (food, music, temperature, comfort level)
Set aside blocks of time
Take breaks
Spread it out over time

5. Studying Study alone first
Seek assistance to clarify items from teachers, classmates, or others
Work together with classmates or former students of the course

6. Reviewing Information
Your own notes
Quizzes/Tests
Assignments
Handouts
Textbook
Other?
Were any hints given?

7. Making Study Notes } }
Extracting key material

8. Tips & Tricks Review notes Acronyms Associational words or concepts
e.g., HOMES
Associational words or concepts
Recitation
Quizzing
Re-testing

9. During the Exam in General
Stay calm, read everything, and note the time(s) allotted
Types of questions
Multiple choice
Fill in the blank
Diagrams
Reading passages
Short answer
Long answer
Attempt all questions

10. Multiple Choice Questions
Teacher’s favourite format of question during long tests / exams
Answer the question before looking at options
Read all options
Circle your answer OR
3. Eliminate impossibilities (logical conclusion)

11. Fill in the Blank Questions
Word list?
Textbook wording?
Use the most appropriate word (not just one that fits!)

12. Diagrams or Maps Questions
Read the question first
Locate your answer if you’re familiar with it OR
2. Read the title, labels, or legend and look for the answer

13. Questions with Readings
Read the question(s) first
Do not rely on previous knowledge – the answer will be in the passage
Re-read the passage to verify your answer

14. Short Answer Questions
Point form?
Comparison chart?
Short paragraph?
one item
two items
three items
four…

15. Long Answer Questions Often looking for structure as well as content
Introduction
Details
Conclusion
Make key concepts obvious or obvious (or some other method!)

16. After the Test / Exam Celebrate!
Keep your notes for awhile – especially your review notes! Perhaps courses later in high school or even in post-secondary schools will require you to look back
Celebrate!

17. Questions?