1. Effective Test Preparation

2. Effective Test Preparation Begins with Planning Use available resources (study guides, etc) to determine the focus of testable information Organize your notes, texts, and assignments according to what will be on the test Estimate the hours you'll need to review materials Draw up a schedule to break up the study tasks into manageable chunks –Conduct a major review early enough to allow for attending an x-period session if necessary Finish your studying the day before the exam

3. Study Actively, NOT Passively Read your notes –If you read properly, re-reading the textbook will probably be a waste of time Make a list of the 5-7 big idea concepts –Do this without using your notes –Focus on themes, comparisons, key continuities or changes first Under each big idea, write examples, facts, names, or terms that support your 5-7 themes –Add as many as possible without using your notes

4. Assess Your Knowledge Check your list of themes & details against your notes and textbook –Did you forget any major themes or key details? Add these omitted ideas to your list Take the myhistorylab quiz, but only once (because they aren’t on your tests) –Identify the broad concept being tested on any incorrect responses Focus your studies on the concepts missed on your themes list & myhistorylab quiz. If you still feel unsure, seek an alternative source that may explain the info in a new way

5. Know Testing Strategies Get some sleep! Be relaxed & confident, but alert –Stress may cause careless errors or cloud your memory If there is time, skim the entire test Answer questions in a strategic order –First, easy questions to build your confidence –Then difficult questions On multiple choice questions, use logic. With your historical background, eliminate those answers that are likely to be wrong On essay questions, briefly outline your answer Review your test –Check for simple mistakes –Only change answers if you misread originally –Proofread essays for minimum requirements