Just as studying is a skill we must learn, so is test taking. We often assume everyone knows how to take a test; you just answer the questions, right? Well, there are some simple suggestions that can help you do reasonably well even on a test over material you've never studied. Then, on a test you've studied for, you can do even better!
1. Read each question. This seems simple, even obvious. But many people don't read questions carefully. They answer what they think the question is asking instead of what it actually says.
2. Circle negative words. NOT questions can be confusing, but they are popular among test writers. It is usually easier to come up with several right answers and only one wrong answers than the other way around. Plus, NOT questions force you to use higher order thinking (they make you think harder!). And we want you to exercise your brain!
3. Look at the test as a whole. A test is not made of 50 independent questions. The questions are usually over a common theme, and even the best test writer cannot eliminate all references to answers to other questions. Sometimes question 23 may have a clue you can use to answer questions 47. Or maybe question 6 reminds you of the example the teacher used for the idea question 18 is asking.
4. Do not let the test scare you. Contrary to popular belief, life does not end if you do poorly on a test. No one will walk up to you in 10 years and ask if you passed your photosynthesis test. Don't get me wrong; you need to do your best on the test. Once you are confident you have done the best you are able to do, then do it and get on with your life! The most important thing about your education is to do the best you can in everything you do. For some of us, that may be B's in biology and A's in art; for others it may be C's in everything; and for some of us it should 100% in every class. Don't be embarrassed or ashamed of your grades or achievements if you did your best. If you got a 75, but you're capable of 100, then you should be concerned. If you got a 75 and that is your best, rejoice!
5. Do not omit any test items. Even a guess can be right. You know more than you give yourself credit, if you've been listening in class and paying attention, keeping up with assignments, and studying every day.
6. Answer on the basis of your first impression. It's usually the correct answer if you paid the least bit of attention in class!
7. Do not change an answer. Unless you know beyond a shadow of a doubt and are willing to risk everything, don't change the answer! Remember: your first instinct is usually right!
8. Read the directions!! Another no-brainer, we think. But more students miss more questions because they didn't read carefully.
9. Underline important words in the questions. If the language of the question is confusing, pick out the important ideas and focus on those first.
10. If two answers are true and "all of the above" is an option, it is the correct answer.
11. Consider all alternatives. You never know when "all of the above" or "none of these" is lurking around the corner if you don't read all the choices.