-
When you are handed a test,
do not, repeat, do not start answering questions immediately.
First, write your name on each page of the test. This accomplishes two
things: it makes sure that you get credit for your work, and more
importantly, it helps relax you by giving you some physical activity.
-
After you have put your
name on each page, you are still not ready to start answering the
questions. Now, you want to read through all the directions and the
questions. This really only takes 1-2 minutes. Why do this? Well,
if you do not read the directions, you will not know what to do, and if
you do not read through the questions, you will worry about what is on
page two while you are trying to answer the questions on page one.
Reading quickly through all the questions and directions helps you to
relax and see what is coming.
-
Be sure to ask your
instructor if you have any questions about the directions or specific
test questions. Generally, the instructor will answer questions for
clarification as long as they don't reveal the answer to the test
question.
-
Now, you are ready to start
answering questions, but you do not have to answer them in the order in
which they appear. You can answer the questions in any order. Some
students like to answer the hard ones first, others the easy ones, and
some like to do them in order. Whatever you do, you make the decision
and thus take some control over the test.
-
As you are taking the test,
be aware of how much time has elapsed. You may have to hurry
yourself up or slow yourself down. The one thing you do not want to do
is "bury your head in the test" and never be aware of the time until it
is too late; that is, when the instructor tells you the test is over.
-
If you get nervous or
worried about something during the test, take a few deep breaths.
This is a help in relieving anxiety. Another tension release is the
tensing and untensing of your muscles. Remember, the more relaxed
you are, the better you will do on a test.
-
As you answer
multiple-choice questions, always be sure to eliminate the obviously
incorrect answers first. You will save time and it will help to reduce
anxiety about choosing the correct answer.
-
If, after reading the
questions and all options, the answer isn't immediately apparent, wait a
second before you look at the options again. First, look at the
questions and try to develop an answer. Then look at the options to see
if the answer isn't more apparent.FAQs
-
Check your answers
carefully. Be sure you're answering the right question on your
answer sheet.
-
Be cautious when an answer
includes such absolute words as every, always, and never. There are few
situations in which something is always or never true.
-
Generally, it is ok to
write comments or thoughts on the test. Doing this can help reduce
anxiety and can help you remember specific details or formulas you are
afraid of forgetting. Ask the teacher if you can write on the test. If
you are using pencil, write lightly and completely erase your notes when
you finish the test.
