Test taking strategies are simple and need the student to use common sense. It makes sense that cramming for a test the night before will produce a tired student. Whatever you think you are gaining you will lose when you sit down to take a test. Test taking strategies are like study strategies, prepare from the first day of class. There is always some sort of an assessment during the semester, so a wise person should only have to review selected material the night before a test. Arriving at the classroom early with the necessary tools such as pens, pencils, erasers, calculator if allowed; take care of your physical need before the exam getting enough sleep, eating a good healthy breakfast or snack and wearing comfortable clothing will help you stay calm. Take deep breaths to help you stay calm especially if you suffer from test anxiety.
Make sure you understand the directions of the exam; underline all words of importance so you know what the questions are asking you to do. Remember the following common verbs that will help you identify what is asked: Define – give the meaning; Summarize – briefly tell; Explain-give reasons; Discuss-give as much information as you can, give the pros and cons; Describe-make it possible to visualize; Emulate-(list) make the major points stand out clearly; Compare-show how the two items are alike; and Contrast-show how the two items are different. Answer all of the questions unless you are penalized for any wrong answer. Pace yourself through the test so that you have time at the end to review your answers and go back to answer the questions you left blank to see if an answer pop out at you. When you start go through and answer the easy questions and the ones you know the answer to for sure. Some final test taking strategies are to practice taking the test, review the material using Flash Cards/index cards, and use prior tests to compare how you did. The last important of the test taking strategies ask questions of the teacher remember there are no dumb questions only those not asked.
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