Testtaking Strategies A quiz on tests 1 Tests

Test-taking Strategies

A quiz on tests 1. Tests make me feel_______. 2. I understand that the purpose of exams is to: a) torture students b) make faculty feel superior c) evaluate what students have learned d) make our parents feel like they’re getting their money’s worth e) none of the above 1.

Quiz 3 Given my preference, I’d rather take a) an objective exam (multiple choice, etc) b) an essay exam 4. True or false: Cramming is a good use of long term memory. Why or why not?

Quiz 5. The most difficult part of preparing for a test is: a) getting myself organized to study b) figuring out what will be on the test c) finding an appropriate time or place to study d) all of the above

Quiz 6. To prepare for an exam, I: a) re-read every chapter I’ll be tested on b) read my highlighted passages and review notes c) go over chapter summaries and sample questions in text d) all of the above e) none of the above (explain) f) other, (please specify)

Before the test Predict test questions • Study guides • Generate list of possible questions- how? • Pay attention to clues in class • Refer to text for sample questions-where?

Plan , Plan • Using your day planner, commit to a series of study sessions over a number of days • Study group • Decide what study tools you’ll use • Cut back on social activity • Include physical activity in your schedule (trade time)

Plan, plan • Avoid sleep and food deficits (limit the caffeine and power drinks) • Practice relaxation techniques • Practice visualization • Essay exams- prepare outline and memory slips • Objective test- use flash cards

Day of the test Arrive early Take care of physical needs-food, sleep, etc Come prepared- pens, calculator, etc Sit in a comfortable place-good lighting, minimal distractions • Avoid pre-test talk • •

During the test • Read and listen to all directions • Do a data dump on scrap paper • Distribute time according to credit value

During the test • When you encounter a question you don’t know skip it • Use all of the allotted time • Review all questions for accuracy • Go back and review skipped questions

During the Test Objective tests Essay test • Multiple choice • True/false • Matching • Retrieve outline from data dump • Reread essay • Make it legible

After the test • Identify which part of the test was easier for you • Identify which part was harder for you • When exam is returned, check errors. Is there a pattern of careless errors? • Determine which study strategies work best for you.