CRM Prep WorkshopPart 6

TEST TAKING TECHNIQUES

Test Taking Techniques

–1 60-point case study (required)

–2 40-point case studies (you chose one)

–70 points are required to pass

Test Taking Techniques

• The Outline provided by the ICRM dictates the composition of the test.

• The Outline is the best study guide for the test. It can be found on the ICRM website at ICRM.org

Test Taking Techniques

• Practice Practice Practice!• This is especially important if it has been a

while since you took tests regularly

• Practice writing clear, concise essays

• Practice may not make you perfect, but it will definitely make you feel more comfortable and confident

Test Taking Techniques

• Pre-Test Preparation– Know where the test is being given– Know how to get there and how long it will

take you – Arrive at least 15 minutes early!– Read your testing instructions so that there

will be no surprises– Know what you need to bring to the test

• Watch or digital clock• Water, Coffee or soft drinks (check with the

testing site)• A sweater or jacket

Test Taking Techniques

• Orientation at the testing site– Pick a seat and check:

• The lighting• The chair• The ventilation (no vent blowing on you)• The computer is on and working

– If that computer does not work, pick another and move to a different location

– Know where the bathrooms and water fountains are

Test Taking Techniques• Time Management is all important• You have four hours to complete both questions• Don’t spend all of your time on one question• Do the 40 point question first, to get yourself in

the writing mode• Spend no more than 90 minutes on it• Check your time frequently, it will go by faster

than you can imagine

Test Taking Techniques• The Directions are there for a purpose• Always read and follow the directions• Ask questions if you are unsure of

something• Even the simplest mistake can cause you

to fail – like forgetting to put your test number on the test

Grading• Remember, the tests will be graded

by anonymous graders from an index of correct points provided by the ICRM

• The same person Will NOT grade both of your exams. Separate graders will do each case study.

Test Taking Techniques

• First things first– Read through and scan the entire test

BEFORE you start answering the questions– This will give you an idea of the scope,

complexity, difficulty and area of coverage.– Scanning the test will let you know what to

expect and give you a better idea of how to pace yourself

– Do an outline of points you want to make on scratch paper to help you put your thoughts in order before you start you essay

Test Taking Techniques

Answer ONLY the question that is asked!!

Test Taking Techniques

• Last but not least– Allow the final 10 minutes to check your

work– Be sure all questions are answered

completely and cover the points requested in the question

– Don’t try and second guess what they want!– Be sure your test number is right, complete

and legible

Test Taking Techniques

• There is no substitute for good preparation.

• Find a MENTOR – in person or online

• Form a study group with other candidates in your chapter/area

• There are no shortcuts, but you can be successful if you really try

Test Taking Techniques

• If at first you don’t succeed, don’t be afraid to try again!

• It takes most candidates at least two tries to pass Part 6

• There is no substitute for a good Mentor to help you on this part

• Contact the Mentor Chair on the ICRM.org web site