During
the Test
1.
Get
to the test site early so you can select a seat, organize your materials, and
get relaxed. Be prepared with pencils, paper, calculator, books (if appropriate),
etc.
2.
Get the big picture.
Survey the entire test before you answer any questions. This will help you to
get an overview of what's expected and to strategize how you will take the
test.
3.
Take
a few deep breaths and to relax tense muscles. Repeat throughout the test. This
process will help you to stay relaxed and to make more energy available for
remembering, thinking, and writing.
4.
Read
directions carefully. Ask questions if you don't understand or need
clarification.
5.
Do a
quick "mind dump" of information you don't want to forget. Write it
down on scrap paper or in the margin.
6.
Answer
the easiest questions first, to help yourself calm down. Matching questions are
often good to start with because they provide a reminder of important terms and
definitions.
7.
Use
good strategies for answering multiple choice and other objective questions.
o Look for the central idea of each
question. What is the main point?
o Statements that begin with always, never,
none, except, most, or least-are probably NOT the answer . Underline these or
other key words if you are allowed to write on the test paper.
o Try to supply your own answer before
choosing an alternative listed on the test.
o Mark an answer for every question.
o If you have to guess:
§
The
length of choices can be a clue. Choose the longest.
§
If
two choices are similar, choose neither.
§
If
two choices are opposites, choose one of them.
§
The
most general alternative is usually the right answer.
8.
When
answering essay questions, remember that the objective is to demonstrate how
well you can explain and support an idea, not just what you know. Keep the
following in mind:
o Read over all the essay questions before
you start to write. Underline key words like define, compare, explain, etc.
o Think before you write. Remember, a good
answer:
§
Starts
with a direct response to the question.
§
Mentions
the topics or areas described in the question.
§
Provides
specific as well as general information.
§
Uses
the technical vocabulary of the course.
o Then map or outline the main points you
want to make, determine the order in which you want to write your points,
determine the support you want to add, then write.
o Write legibly. Leave some space so you can
add to your answer, later.
o Proofread your essay. Check for grammar,
punctuation, spelling, etc. This often adds points!
9.
When
problem solving, ask yourself:
o What am I being asked to find?
o What do I need to know in order to find
the answer?
o What information has been provided that
will help me to find the answer?
o How can I break the problem down into
parts? What steps should I follow to solve the problem?
o Does the answer make sense? Does it cover
the whole problem?
10. Keep an eye on the clock. Make sure you'll
have time to complete the test sections with the highest value, if not the
entire test.
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