Test Taking Tips

Never Be Afraid to Ask Questions

• When is the test?
• How much is it worth?
• What content is being tested?
• What will the format be?

Establish a Preparation Schedule

• Being a full-time student is a full-time job. Do everything between 8-5 if possible to keep your nights and weekends free.
• Record all test dates for the course on a calendar.
• Start studying one to two hours a day, a week before the test.
• Get a good night’s sleep and eat a meal before the test.

Use Active Study Strategies

• Use mnemonic devices to improve memory.
• Use SQ4R and active reading study strategies to improve retention.
• Study in the morning or afternoon hours when your mind is more alert.
• Review all highlighted text and notes.
• Take the time to answer the questions at the end of each chapter.
• Prepare flashcards.
• Participate in study groups. Quiz each other and explain concepts to each other.

During the Test:

• Pay attention to all verbal/written directions.
• Read directions slowly, twice.
• Scan the entire test.
• Evaluate the importance of each section by point value.
• In the margins, jot down memory aids, formulas, equations, and facts.
• Answer the easiest and/or shortest questions first.
• Pace yourself.
• Look for answers in other questions.
• Before submitting your test, look it over again to make sure you answered every question.

Test preparation really begins on the first day of class and continues each week of the semester. Preparing for tests and exams allows you to do your personal best.

Test anxiety manifests itself emotionally, behaviorally, and physically. Loss of sleep, negative self-talk, and headaches are just a few of the symptoms of anxiety. Fortunately, there are ways to manage it:

Common Causes and Their Cures:

Unfamiliarity with the test

• Find out as much as possible about the test.
• How many questions are on the test?
• What is the test format? (multiple-choice, short essay)
• How much time will you have to take the test?
• What topics or chapters will be covered?
• What is an example of a question that might be on the test?

Lack of preparation.

• Preparation is key!
• Review class notes and highlighted text regularly.
• Make an organized study schedule and stick to it.
• Block off time each day during the week before a test.
• Define terms and concepts in your own words.
• Look for similarities and differences between ideas you are learning about.
• Prepare effectively for your test using a variety of study methods.

Negative or perfectionist thoughts

• Pray and seek support from others.
• Think positive thoughts and visualize yourself completing the test successfully.
• Keep the test in perspective. Many elements go into calculating your final grade and a test is just one.
• Avoid over-generalizing (I always do badly on short answer tests!)
• Avoid catastrophizing (If I don’t pass this test, my life will be ruined!)

Physical barriers to test performance

• Get plenty of sleep. Cramming all night is not a good strategy.
• Eat a well-balanced diet.
• Avoid caffeine and sugar before the test.
• Arrive early, breathe deeply and slowly, and learn to relax.

Remember, some stress is normal. If you feel test anxiety has affected other areas of your life or has become uncontrollable, the Academic Success Center recommends that you seek professional help from Student Counseling Services.