Strategies for Preparing for and Taking Tests

Before the Test:

1)   Keep all assignments and notes up to date.

2)   Study notes on a daily basis, do not wait for the day before the test.

3)   Have one study area that is free of distraction.

4)   Have a timetable that you will spend studying for each of your courses daily.

5)  Have a study partner who will help in studying and quizzing each other before tests.

6)   Be confident in your own abilities.

7)   Prepare a checklist of all the materials that is to be on the test.

8)   Ask questions in the time the teacher allots for pre-test questioning.

9)       Create flash cards with the important facts on it for quick quizzing.

10) Know the length and format of the test.

10)  Most important of all do not overexert or stress yourself out preparing for the exam.  Maintain a regular lifestyle that allows for things other than school.

Just before the test:

1)    Arrive for the test a few minutes early (10 to 15min).

2)    Avoid nervous and anxious peers.

3)    As soon as possible write down all possible memory notes.

4)    Listen to any oral directions the instructor may offer.

5)    Know the point values of each section.

6)    Review the test reading all instructions carefully.  If any doubt about meaning ask the instructor.

7)           Budget your time carefully.  Allot approximate time limits for each section of the test.

Doing the test:

1)   Do the questions that you find the easiest first.

2)   You do not have to do the test in order.  Do the types of questions that are the ones you do best.

3)   Read and re-read the test questions before you start to answer them.

4)   Identify the key words in each question.

5)   Always ensure that you give a response to every question.  Do not leave blanks.

6)   Allow time for review of answers.  Fix any errors that you may find in syntax or content.

7)       Use all the time that is allotted for the test.

After the test:

1)   Take a deep breath and relax.

2)   Reflect on your performance and what you may change in your preparation for the future.

3)   Do not forget about the content that was just tested because it will be applied in future applications.

4)   Congratulate yourself on your accomplishment.

Resources:

1)   How Successful Students Prepare for Tests: @://wwwmtsu.edu/~studskl/sucstu.htrnl

2)   Book wolf Preparing for tests:

http://www.bookwolf.com/Bookwolf Reference/Study Guides/Preparing for tests/preparing for tests.html

3)   Effectively Taking Tests:

http://www.awconline.azwestem.edu/Guide'/o2Oto'/o2Oonhne/(r2OLeamirig/S d@O/o2OGuide'Yo2OTakingO/o2OTests.htm

4)   Survival strategies for taking tests:  http://www.mtsu.edu/-studskl/teststrat.html

5)   Study with Confidence: Skill building for Mature Students - MSVU The Centre for Continuing Education.