Tackle that test!

What is it about tests? You would think that after all the tests that we have taken in our lives, we would know exactly how to master them. Yet, is it not strange that most people ignore the basic strategies to do this?

Parents, teachers, and maybe even tutors have all advised us on the dreaded process of test-taking since our early years of schooling. Often times we forget that tests were not invented as a means for students to be forced into failure, but rather as a way to allow students to demonstrate what they have learned. Therefore, when you step into your test room on the big day, bring with you a cheerful attitude because this is your chance to impress your teacher and maybe even your peers. First, make sure you get to class early so you can make sure that you are fully prepared. I really hope you got those eight hours of sleep, a substantial meal, and some caffeine before-hand because it will really help you bang out an A. Test-taking is like a sport and this is your big game; you want to win, not lose!

When the teacher or proctor tells you when the exam starts and ends pay close attention. Time is a determining factor in how you should take your test. If you are not given much time, start by taking a minute to look over the different sections and realize how much time you will need for each. Always put the most time into the section that is worth the most points. Staying focused and clear-minded is necessary because you don’t want to make any mistakes when skipping from section to section, especially if you don’t answer them in order. One tip to help you save time is to fill in the bubbles for a particular section all at once after you have answered a section or page of questions.

Tests for your classes are a little different from standardized tests. Regular in-class tests contain everything you have learned in class. However, when it comes to the standardized tests such as the SATs, your knowledge of basic concepts and test-taking abilities are evaluated, as well. Often times, great students perform horribly on the test because the SAT is a matter of time management, knowing how many questions to answer, and how many to leave blank in order to receive the best score. For this type of test you need to practice and get use to the format. With practice tests, you are given a grading rubric, which will explain how much each question is worth. Using your own judgment, you should be able to realize which questions will be worth the most based on the difficulty. Reach your desired score by answering the ideal balance of easy, medium, and difficult questions. Do not answer too many difficult questions if you are not sure because you will lose more points then you want. Also, use all the time you are given on your tests and always look over your answers when possible.

The most important advice is to never doubt your capabilities. Hard work is just as great as “natural smarts”. Tell yourself from the start that you can and will get the grade you want. Positivity is one of the best ways to success. You can do it!