TEST PREPARATION GUIDELINES GOOD LUCK!

TEST PREPARATION GUIDELINES
1. DO NOT CRAM the night before. If you don’t know it by now, cramming will not help.
Review your notes and get a good night’s sleep.
2. Plan to give yourself some extra time before the test in which to get some exercise. Even
a brisk 15 minute walk maybe be sufficient to relax you and get the blood flowing.
3. Get to your class on time or, better yet, with time to spare.
4. Try to keep the same seat for the test that you have for the class.
5. If you begin to feel anxious, practice a relaxation exercise. Close your eyes, imagine
yourself in pleasant surroundings outside of school and focus on the warm, comfortable
thoughts that come to mind. If you have trouble eliminating anxious thoughts, try repeating
a “mantra” to yourself. The word “one” is effective for many people.
6. Scan the entire test. Where are most of the points “loaded”? Jot down any key words or
phrases. Outline answers to essays’ return to it later.
7. Use your time wisely. Answer those questions that you are sure of first. Save the more
difficult questions for the end.
8. Tips for multiple choice tests:
Read everything first
If you do not know the right answer, can you eliminate a choice that is not right?
Do not go back and change an answer unless you are absolutely sure. 95% of the
time, the first answer is the right answer.
9. Tips for essay tests:
Be sure you understand what is being asked.
If your test is a combination of multiple choice and essay, jot down the important
facts in the margin. As you work through the multiple choice questions you may
uncover information to help you with the essay; write it down.
Clearly state the main points in the first sentence and develop them in your first
paragraph. Be sure to use examples to provide clarification. Define your terms.
Do not say more than you need to.
REMEMBER, SUCCESS REQUIRES PLANNING AND PREPARATION
GOOD LUCK!
Writing Handout – Studying – TEST PREPARATION GUIDELINES

SQ3R Method of Studying
Survey the material before you actually begin to read it. Are there particular areas that the
author has highlighted? What topics are being covered?
Question. What questions come to mind as you survey the material? It is often helpful to
look at the questions at the end of the chapter before you begin to read the material.
Read the material, looking for answers to your questions.
Recite to yourself the important facts. Look for a way to make the information meaningful
to you.
Review what you have read.
A+ Listening
Always come to class on time. You cannot listen if you are not there!
Strive to pay Attention. You must focus on the lecture in order for the information to be
stored in your memory.
Maintain a positive Attitude. Do not automatically assume that the lecture will be dull.
Cultivate a capacity for Adjustment. Be flexible enough to follow the lecture regardless of
the direction taken.
If you do not understand something, Ask for clarification.
The above information was adapted from Walter Park’s How to Study in College, Fifth Ed.
Writing Handout – Studying – TEST PREPARATION GUIDELINES