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TIPS FOR TAKING TESTS
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Read the instructions carefully. Never assume you will know what they will say! Ask the teacher if you are unsure about anything.
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Read the entire test through before starting. Notice the point value of each section. This will help you to pace yourself.
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Answer the easiest questions first, then the ones with the highest point value. You don't want to spend 20 minutes trying to figure out a two-point problem!
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If you have a very important equation, formula, or definition to remember for a test, write it down on the test paper as soon as you receive it. Find a corner or edge to jot it down as a reminder to yourself. If you are not allowed to write on the test paper, write it on your answer sheet in an out of the way place. This way, you won't worry about forgetting it during the test.
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Keep busy! If you get stuck on a question, come back to it later. The answer might come to you while you are working on another part of the test.
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If you aren't sure how to answer a question fully, try to answer at least part of it. You might get partial credit.
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Need to guess on a multiple-choice test? First, eliminate the answers that you know are wrong. Then take a guess. Because your first guess is most likely to be correct, you shouldn't go back and change an answer later unless you are certain you were wrong.
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On an essay test, take a moment to plan your writing. First, jot down the important points you want to make. Then number these points in the order you will cover them.
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Keep it neat! If your teacher can't read your writing, you might lose points.
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Don't waste time doing things for which you will not receive credit, such as rewriting test questions.
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Leave time at the end to look over your work. Did you answer every question? Did you proofread for errors? It is easy to make careless mistakes while taking a test.
More exam tips
Preparing for a large semester exam can be sort of stressful. One way to reduce the stress and maximize your study time is to ask the teacher about the test. Their answer might not be as specific as you hope, but it may be helpful all the same. Many teachers will tell you what kind of questions might be asked (for example, short essays, multiple choice, or matching). Ask the question while in class so your fellow students have the benefit of hearing the answer too. If your teacher plans to give out any hints about the test, he or she will be more likely to do this in front of everyone than in a one-on-one situation.
Preparing for exams
Most students would prefer to not think about an exam until the night before, you'll be in much better shape if you get a head start on studying. Here are a couple of suggestions that should help:
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Prepare a study sheet for each exam. Study sheets should include reading summaries, class notes and handouts.
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Spend time either typing or neatly writing the study sheets. In the process of completing them, you will be giving yourself a thorough review of the material on which you'll be tested.
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Once the study sheets are completed, don't try to memorize them. Instead, read through your study sheets three times daily. A consistent habit of reading through them will help you remember the facts and ideas come test time.
If you've never used a method like this to study for an exam, you will be amazed how much more prepared you are than if you had just spent one night cramming everything into your head.
Essay Questions
Writing a short essay for a test can somtimes feel like a lot of pressure. Whether you have to write one paragraph or five, make a quick plan first and the actual writing will be a lot easier. On the test paper or side of you answer sheet, create an outline or some notes of what you want to write. This quick plan will be a self-check that your proposed answer flows well and makes some logical sense. Now you're ready to write.
Keeping lists
Questions and worries inevitably arise when you are studying for a big exam, sometimes distracting you from your work. Keep a "Worry List" at your side while you study, writing down any questions that may come up or worries that might derail your concentration. By writing them down, you'll have something to refer to later when talking to a teacher or peer who can help you. Writing them down also helps you focus on the matter at hand so your study time is productive.
Multiple Choice Questions
When taking a multiple choice test, sometimes you have to guess. The trick is knowing at what point to make an educated guess. First eliminate answers you know are wrong and then make your guess from the remaining answers. However, don't guess if you have no basis for your choice and if you are penalized for guessing. Since your first choice is usually correct, don't change your answers unless you are sure of the correction.
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