Test Taking Strategies, Test Preparation Test Taking Strategies, Test Preparation and Reducing Test Anxietyand Reducing Test Anxiety

Learning Assistance Center (LAC)Learning Assistance Center (LAC)

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General Test-Taking StrategiesGeneral Test-Taking Strategies

• Relax.• Look at the test.• Read the

directions• When you are

stuck, move on!

• Ask for clarification• Learn from the

test.• Concentrate

despite distractions.

• Proofread your work

Strategies for Multiple Choice Strategies for Multiple Choice QuestionsQuestions

• Read the test items carefully and completely.• Strike out wrong answers.• Mark answers clearly and consistently.• Change your answers cautiously.• Guess• Look for cues.• Do not spend time thinking about how the

question could have been written better.• Check for clues in other questions.

Strategies for True-False QuestionsStrategies for True-False Questions

Go with your hunch. Don’t look for answer patterns. Honor exceptions to the rule. Analyze qualifying terms.

Strategies for Essay QuestionsStrategies for Essay Questions

Anticipate essay questions.

Read carefully. Analyze the

question. Map your ideas. Create an outline.

Reflect the question in opening sentence.

Write like a reporter. Don’t bluff. Write legibly. Be careful in use of

humor. Proofread

Test Preparation : Long-term Test Preparation : Long-term StrategiesStrategies

• Pace yourself.• Commit to a study group.• Compare perspectives.• Share hunches.• Rotate special assignments.

Test Preparation: Short-term Test Preparation: Short-term StrategiesStrategies

• Know what to expect.• Match your study to the test

format.• Size up the professor.• Get an idea of what’s on the test.

Test Preparation: Test Preparation: Self-TestingSelf-Testing

• Self-Testing• Take practice test• Use textbooks and notes to predict

exam questions.• Use Study Aids• Create test-like conditions• Create flashcards• Create mnemonic devices• Record your notes• Create study checklists

Reducing Test AnxietyReducing Test Anxiety

• Plan• What you will need

to study• When you will

study• To study the

material over several days

• Study• In a well lit area at

the same time each day

• In an area free from distraction

• Extra sources if possible to enhance your understanding

Reducing Test Anxiety:Reducing Test Anxiety: Do’s & Dont’s Do’s & Dont’s

• Don’t• Over-study• Study up to the

last minute• Wait until the day

before the test to ask seek help

• Do• Get enough sleep• Eat a starch or fruit• Get there early• Bring extras• Bring a watch• Take a deep breath• Positive Self-talk• Pace yourself• Answer each question• Avoid drug use!