Improve Test Taking Skills
Improve positive self talk
Negative self talk will get in the way of your confidence. It’s important to say to yourself that I’m taking care of myself, I have studied the information and I am going to follow the test taking strategies.
Prior to the test identify the orientation:
- Is the test multiple choice, true and false or essay?
- How long the test will will take?
- Are some test questions worth more points than others?
- Practice using the same format as the test, for example is it scantron or response booklet.
Time Management
- Be aware of the time and practice time estimating. Do not spend too much time on any one problem.
- Practice taking timed tests
- Skip the difficult questions that will take too much time and come back to them later.
- In multiple choice questions skim through the answer choices before you read the questions.
Problem Solving Strategies
- If you can rule out some answers make an educated guess.
- When testing is complete, check answer or grid match. Make sure that you have erased completely especially on scantron sheets because extra mark can sometimes alter scoring.
- Work the problems backwards in multiple choice math questions.
- Pay attention to details (always, never)
Test Anxiety
- Make sure you have a good night’s sleep, that you have something to eat before the test and that you wear something comfortable.
- Talk to someone
- Understand why you are stressed
- Practice Positive Thinking
- Relaxation Exercise (see relaxation link)
|
