1. Test Taking Strategies Chapter 4

2. The Basics Doing well on tests is something that you have to earn. Most of the preparation for success on an examination starts before you begin to study – Regular attendance, quality note taking, and regular study habits.

3. Preparation Make a semester study plan. Review often. Attend group study sessions. Have a plan for your pre-exam day.

4. Test-Day Strategies Arrive early. Listen carefully to the instructions. Look over the exam. Read the directions and questions-twice. Develop a plan. Learn from the Test

5. While You Are Taking the Exam First, answer the questions that seem easy to you or that you are sure you know. Then, move on to the more challenging questions, keeping in mind point values and time remaining. – Do not spend an inordinate amount of time on a problem or question that is worth only a few points

6. Post-Test Strategies Attend class the day the exam is returned and discussed. Review any comments the instructor has made on your exam. Make note of the style of the examination.

7. TEST ANXIETY When taking a test gets you all hot and bothered….

8. Test Anxiety Can take two forms: mental and physical – Mental: believe you are unprepared, fearing you studied the wrong materials, worrying about the type exam you will face. – Physical: physiological responses your body makes to an imminent exam your heart races, your head and stomach ache, sweats or tense muscles

9. Point to Remember Test anxiety is learned behavior meaning you can unlearn it. Utilize Academic Resources if you think you suffer from extreme test anxiety

10. Text Anxiety Reduction Strategies Follow the test preparation strategies detailed earlier in the lesson. The day before the exam, study for no more than 3 hours. Eat well, get plenty of sleep, and remain calm. Avoid others who are panicked. Avoid cramming. RELAX!!!