Test Taking Tips

Multiple Choice Test

  • Relax. It’s only a test.
  • Read directions clearly and carefully.
  • Do a quick review of the test – see what kind and how many questions there are.
  • Manage your time. Watch the clock to avoid running out of time.
  • Unless points are taken away for incorrect answers, best to guess than leave it blank.
  • Answer easy questions first – they take less time.
  • Can’t figure out the answer? Try eliminating at least one obviously wrong answer.
  • If you finish early, review answers to make sure you didn’t miss anything.

Essay Questions

  • Quickly scan the test. How many questions are there? How many points is each question worth? Remember, a question worth four points versus 10 will require less detail.
  • Write clearly. Don’t lose points because the teacher can’t read your writing.
  • Do easy questions first, and then come back to the difficult ones. Sometimes questions you can’t answer immediately make sense when you review a second time.
  • Have time to answer all questions.
  • Proofread – did you answer the question correctly? Check spelling, punctuation and capitalization errors.
  • Plan what you want to say. Jot down a couple of quick notes so you know the direction of your answers.

Mark any questions you need to come back to so you remember to review them, if the test permits.