1. The Steps Of The Test-Taking Strategy
PIRATES
The Steps Of The
Test-Taking Strategy

2. Step 1: Prepare to Succeed
Put your name and PIRATES on the test.
Allot time and order to sections.
Say affirmations.
Start within two (2) minutes.

3. Step 2: Inspect The Instructions
Read instructions carefully.
Underline what to do and where to respond.
Notice special requirements.

4. Step 3: Read, Remember, & Reduce
Read the whole question.
Remember what you studied.
Reduce the choices.

5. Step 4: Answer Or Abandon
Answer the question.
Abandon the question for the moment.

6. Step 5: Turn Back
Go back to the abandoned questions

7. Step 6: Estimate
Avoid absolutes.

8. Avoid Absolutes ABSOLUTE WORDS ALL NO ALWAYS NONE EVERY NEVER ONLY
NON-ABSOLUTE WORDS
FEW MOST
SOME MANY
SELDOM OFTEN
SOMETIMES
USUALLY

9. Step 6: Estimate Avoid absolutes.
Choose the longest or most detailed choice.
Eliminate similar choices.

10. Step 7: Survey Survey to ensure all questions are answered.
Switch an answer only if you’re sure.

11. An Acronym Prepare to succeed Inspect the instructions
Read, remember, & reduce
Answer or abandon
Turn back
Estimate
Survey