1. Excel at Taking Tests Chapter 8

2. Excel at Taking Tests I studied very hard for my last test, but my mind went blank when I tried to answer questions. – Have you ever had a similar experience? – Do you ever feel anxious or worried when taking tests?

3. Test Taking Strategies Before the Test: – 1. Start on day one. The best way to prepare is to start from the first day of class. Go to class, be active, arrive on time, etc. – 2. Know expectations. The first day of class is important because at this time professors usually state their expectations. – 3. Ask questions in class. If you are unclear ask. – 4. Keep up. Manage your time and keep up with the readings, homework, etc – 5. Review early. Look over chapters before going to class. Review your notes after class. Set up a schedule, so you have time to review daily. – 6. Review weekly. – 7. Do a final review. A week or so before the test commit to a major review. – 8. Use memory techniques. – 9. Create sample tests. – 10. Summarize. – 11. Use your study team. You may avoid skipping studying if you know other people are waiting for you. – 12. Use available resources. – 13. Assemble what you will need.

4. Test Taking Strategies During the Test – 1. Write down key information. As soon as you get the test write down your name, id, etc, as well as any important notes you may forget, formulas, etc. – 2. Read and listen to all instructions. – 3. Determine which questions are worth more. Look at the point values for each question. You want to spend the most time on questions that are worth the most. – 4. Answer objective questions. Some of these questions may give you hints for essay questions. – 5. Answer essay questions. Answer the easiest essay questions first and spend the most time on questions worth the most. Write down main ideas and fill them with details. – 6. Answer remaining questions. Unless there is a penalty for guessing answer everything!!! – 7. Review. Check your answers.

5. Test Taking Strategies After the Test: – 1. Reward yourself. – 2. Check your grade. Look over your mistakes. Learn what to do differently next time. – 3. Review with your instructor. – 4. Review the test with your study team.

6. Taking Different Types of Tests Objective Tests: – True & False Test 1. Listen & read carefully 2. Pay attention to the details. For example, make sure the dates aren’t changed. 3. Watch for qualifiers. These are words such as “always, all, never, etc” 4. Watch for faulty cause and effect 5. Always answer every question. You have a 50/50 chance of being right. 6. Trust your instincts

7. Taking Different Types of Tests Objective Tests: – Multiple Choice Tests: 1. Read the question carefully 2. Rephrase the question 3. Eliminate choices 4. Go from easy to difficult 5. Watch for combinations 6. Look at sentence structure 7. Use critical thinking

8. Taking Different Types of Tests Objective Tests: – Matching Test: 1. Read carefully 2. Eliminate 3. Look at sentence structure

9. Taking Different Types of Tests Objective Tests: – Fill in the blank: 1. Watch for clues 2. Count the number of blanks 3. Answer the questions you know first 4. Answer all the questions

10. Taking Different Types of Tests Objective Tests: – Open book test: The key to open book tests is to prepare. Know where to find the answers

11. Taking Different Types of Tests Essay Tests: 1. Budget your writing time 2. Read the question carefully 3. Create an outline 4. Focus on the main points 5. Write concisely and correctly 6. Use key terms and phrases 7. Answer completely 8. Write neatly 9. Use all available time

12. Last Minute Study Tips 1. Focus on a few points 2. Be positive 3. Review your note cards 4. Review your notes 5. Affirm your memory

13. Overcoming Obstacles How do some of you feel when taking a test?

14. Overcome Obstacles Test Anxiety: – Symptoms: nervousness, upset stomach, sweaty palms, and forgetfulness – Being prepared is the best way to combat test anxiety. You may also want to: – 1. Get rid of negative thoughts – 2. Rehearse – 3. Get exercise – 4. Eat breakfast – 5. Visualize success – 6. Stay calm – 7. Get to class early – 8. Focus – 9. Keep a sense of perspective – 10. Get help

15. Cheating Cheating is: – Looking at someone’s paper – Passing answers – Getting notes from someone who has just taken the test – Stealing a test – Using electronic devices when not allowed – Having someone else complete online work for you