Test Taking Strategies for Test Day

1. Test TakingStrategies for Test Day Presented by the Academic and Career Advisement Center Adapted from Colleen Gaffney

2. Plan of Action • Preview the test. • Plan how you will use your time. • Notice important words. • Rephrase questions. • Check your work. • Review the test before handing it in.

3. Preview • Carefully read the directions to each section. • You want to be sure that you are following the directions exactly as they are written. • If you have questions, ask the professor. • What type of questions are on the test? • Short answer and essay tests often have more detailed directions than multiple choices exams. • How many points is each question worth? • Where should you place priority? • What should you complete first? • Do you answer directly on the test or on a separate sheet? • Always check BOTH SIDES…there may be questions on the back side.

4. Use Your Time • How much time do you have to complete the entire test? • How many questions are on the test? • How much time can you spend on each question? • Extra pencils/pens? • Try to strategize with your time. • Easy question? Less time needed. • Tough question? More time needed. • Lots of questions? Keep an eye on the clock.

5. Important Words • Simple • Name • List • Define • Answers are usually straight forward, and often rely on memorization. • You are not asked to analyze or think critically. • Complex • Discuss • Describe • Outline • Compare/Contrast • Summarize • These types of questions test your application of concepts. • They require more critical thinking, and answers require development of ideas. • You are attempting to show your multi-level understanding of material. • Other • Never • Most • Not • These are usually found on multiple choice exams.

6. Rephrase • Underline/circle important words in the directions. • Reread the directions or questions to make sure they are clear. • If need be, try to rephrase the question in a manner that you can better understand. • Be careful that your rewording does not cause you to answer incorrectly. • You want to avoid “over-thinking” questions. That can sometimes lead to more confusion. • If you are unsure, always ask the professor for clarification. huh?

7. Check Yourself • Concentrate on the test. • Avoid potential distractions. • Don’t worry about other students in the room. • Focus on the questions. • Keep an eye on the time. Strategize! • Answer the easiest question(s) first. • Return to difficult question(s). • Use all of the time allotted. • Avoid the avoidable. • Simple mistakes…2+2=5? • Does one answer contradict another? • Did you miss any questions? • Review…Review…Review… • Take one final look at the test, just to be sure. • Complete any items you’ve overlooked. • Avoid changing answers…unless you are certain that you need to make a correction.

8. Good Luck! This PowerPoint presentation is the property of Northern Michigan University’s Academic & Career Advisement Center. It may not be reproduced without written consent. www.nmu.edu/acac