July 27, 2011

Test-Taking Tips For Success

1 Day Until the Bar Exam - Tips for Success

Image by aloshbennett via Flickr

Students know that tests are a common part of school life. They are exposed to it from preschool through college. Just as certain skills are necessary to develop study habits, listening skills, and communication proficiencies, there are strategies that develop test-taking skills too. Students can use certain guidelines that can help them prepare for and take a test.

As you prepare for a test, it is imperative that you know exactly what you will be tested on. Usually, the teacher will review what is on a test. First, it is important to be in class that day. Secondly, this is the time to take accurate notes. Lastly, it is the time to ask questions if you are unsure about what will be covered on the exam.

Once you are armed with your test review information, make a study plan that allows you ample time to go over the material. Last minute cramming is not wise. Stick with a study plan that spans over several days to ensure maximum retention. Make lists of important dates, definitions, or events. Ask a friend or family member to quiz you on them.

Use critical thinking. Try to predict questions that may be on the test. Then, go a step further and answer your predicted question. Be sure to write out the question and answer. Writing information helps with retention and long-term memory. Rest is extremely important when tackling a challenging event like test taking. Consequently, get plenty of sleep and have a nutritious breakfast on the morning of the test.

At the start of the test, take the time survey the entire test to see how long it is and what types of questions are included. This allows you to prioritize the sections and complete them in an order that is best for you. Some students prefer working on the most challenging section first, leaving the easier sections for last. Some prefer to work the opposite way.

It is very important to read the entire directions and read questions very carefully. Make sure you know exactly what you are required to do. Plan your time according to the question. Allow extra time for complicated questions. If you find yourself overspending time on a difficult question, skip it and go back to it later.

Work quickly, but do not rush yourself. Allow yourself some review time. Once you have finished, go back over your work, re-reading the questions and double-checking your answers. It is usually not a good idea to change too many answers. Avoid the temptation to continually second guess yourself. If you gave yourself ample study time, your first idea is probably the correct answer.

Taking a test can be a stressful and fearful event, but this is usually the case when the student is not prepared. Students taking online courses through accredited online schools will become familiar with electronic testing. Knowing and understanding the content can reduce the level of fear associated with test taking. This can be accomplished through the implementation of effective study habits before the test and by using key test strategies during the test. Try using the guidelines listed in this article before and during your next exam - discover first-hand, if they make a difference.

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