Test-taking Strategies

An exam is your opportunity to show what you have learned.  No strategy can take the place of studying and preparing, but there are some things you can do during a test to maximize your performance:

In general:

·         Look at the whole test to see format, length, etc.  Pay attention to the point value for the different questions and use your time accordingly.

·         Watch the time.  Divide the time and the test into equal segments. For example, if there are 50 multiple choice questions and one hour, plan to be done with 25 questions when the time is half over.  Or if there are 25 multiple choice and one large essay, spend half the time on each.

·         Use questions from one part of the test to help you answer questions on the other parts.

·         If you are drawing a blank, start with a question that you know.  You will access that information in your memory and begin to remember. 

·         Splash Down – As soon as you get the test write down whatever you are worried about remembering or a mnemonic device you created.   Writing it down will free up your working memory to focus on the test.

·         If you are feeling anxious, pause and take a deep breath or two.  This will help you relax.

Essays:

·         Pause and think before starting to write.   Create a small outline of your answer in the corner of the page.

·         Be sure to answer ALL parts of the question.   Don’t try to write a global answer, address each part of the question in order.

·         Use signal words to help the professor follow your thinking.

Multiple Choice:

·         Read the question carefully.  Make sure you are answering the question asked.

·         Use process of elimination.

·         Use the test to take the test.   You may be able to get hints to an earlier question you are unsure of through the later questions and answers on the exam.

·         If it is a scantron format, be very sure you are on the right number on the answer sheet.

·         Watch out for “not” and “except” in the questions.   They are confusing, so slow down your thinking.

Nothing beats preparation, but using these strategies will help you display what you know and earn a good grade!
*****
First Semester Success: Learning Strategies and Motivation for Your First Semester (or Any Semester) of College, by Dr. Arden B. Hamer, is available at amazon.com, wordassociation.com and barnesandnoble.com.   Click on the upper right link.