2. TEST TAKING TIPS Martin Mitchell martin.mitchell@smail.astate.edu

3. Before the test  Assignments  Complete all assignments  Make sure all answers are correct  Reviews  Section  Chapter  Unit

4.  Techniques for lists and definitions  Acronyms  Memorize first part of each word in list  Flash cards  Great to carry around to study during free time Math facts Vocabulary words Before the test

5.  Understand information  Make sure all information is understood Ask teacher about unclear information  Review past tests  Make sure incorrect answers have been corrected.  Study/break (45 minutes to 1 hour)

6. Before the test  Get plenty of sleep—no all nighters  Eat before test  Have reference sheet (if allowed)  Show up early  Go to the bathroom

7. During the test  Read directions carefully  Do not rush, or important information could be missed.  Write down vital information  When starting test, write down important information that may be difficult to remember as to not forget it.  Answer the easiest questions first  This will allow for more time to be spent on more difficult questions.

8. During the test  Time  Pay attention as to not run out of time  If you have to guess:  Length of choices can be a clue—choose the longest  If two choices are similar, choose neither  If two choices are opposites, choose one of them

9. During the test  Answering essay questions: Demonstrate how well you can explain and support an idea, not just what you know. Keep the following in mind:  Read over all the essay questions before you start to write. Underline key words like define, compare, explain, etc.  Map main points you want to make  Proofread your essay.

10. During the test  Greatest point value  After answering the easiest questions, go back and start answering the ones with the greatest point value.  Write legibly  If what you have written cannot be read, it may not be graded, or it may have points counted off.

11. During the test  If you don't know an answer, skip it  Don’t waste time trying to figure out an answer you don’t know. Skip it and come back to it later  Don't worry about others  Focus on the task at hand, don’t worry about anyone else.  Review: info & answers

12. After the test  Review test  Look for possible grading mistakes  Look at missed questions Figure out the answers, and why the answer was incorrect.  Look at strong and weak areas  Keep test for later review for other tests

13. Reference  http://www.testtakingtips.com/test/genpre.htm http://www.testtakingtips.com/test/genpre.htm  http://faculty.bucks.edu/specpop/tests.htm http://faculty.bucks.edu/specpop/tests.htm