As a student you will have a variety of tests throughout your academic experience. Often times students share their anxiousness about taking exams however if one is prepared correctly, it can make all the difference.  Let’s start with identifying the different types of tests and how you should prepare for each.

Types of Tests

• Objective ( multiple choice, T/F, fill in the blanks, matching)
• Standardized
• Essay
• Performance

Best way to prepare for a test – is to prepare a test

Test Preparation Plan
Be able to answer the following questions:

• What kind of questions will there be?
• How much time is allowed for this test?
• What textbook materials, lectures, outside readings, will be covered on the test?

Objective Tests (Multiple Choice)

Purpose –
 To measure knowledge of facts

 To recognize similarities and differences

 To assess ability to reason logically from the evidence given
Strategies for Multiple Choice

 Make sure you are clear on the question before choosing an answer

 Think of a correct answer, then look for it among the alternatives

 Always read ALL alternatives before selecting an answer

 Don’t dismiss an alternative because it seems too obvious or simple an answer. (remember, if you are well prepared, some of the questions will appear straight forward)

 Don’t pick “c” every time you are unsure of the answer. You could end up picking “c” far too many times.

 Don’t pick your answer based on a pattern of responses, (e.g. “This can’t be another “b” answer because I’ve just had three in a row.”)

Strategies Regarding True of False Test Questions:

 If any part of a question is false then the whole question is false

 Watch for what’s called ‘absolutes’ – (e.g. always, never, all, none) chances are the question is usually false.

 If it doesn’t make sense than it is probably false

BE WARY OF CHANGING YOUR ANSWERS!

Use Your Test Time Wisely

 Read through all the sections once

 Budget more time for higher point value sections

 Do a “memory dump” – Before you begin to answer the questions, flip the actual test over and “dump” any crucial information (e.g. formulas, definitions, diagrams, etc.)

 Answer the easier questions first – helps build confidence

Don’t want to get caught with a 100% effort on 20% of the test.

Test Anxiety – “Test anxiety is a psychological condition in which people experience extreme distress and anxiety in testing situations.”

Test Anxiety Checklist
 I worry about failing tests
 I do not sleep well the night before a test
 I sometimes try to figure out how I can avoid taking a test
 Before or during the test I often perspire excessively, have an upset stomach, feel my heart beating rapidly, or shortness of breath
 I have difficulty concentrating when I take tests
 I am often unable to recall information that I learned
 I make foolish mistakes when I answer test questions
 While taking test, I worry that other students will finish before me or do better than me.

Managing Test Anxiety
 Be well prepared for the test
 Get to the exam in plenty of time
 Think positively, “I can do OK on this exam”.
 Don’t talk to friends about the exam material just before going into the exam!!!!
 Read carefully any instructions
 If very anxious while taking the test, take a few minutes and calm yourself (e.g. release pen, drop shoulders, deep breathe, close eyes)

Test Prayer
Now I lay me down to study. I pray the Lord I won’t go nutty.
And if I fail to learn this junk, I pray the Lord that I won’t flunk.
But if I do, don’t pity me at all. Just lay my bones in the study hall. Tell my teacher I’ve done my best. Then pile my books upon my chest.
Now I lay me down to rest, to pray I’ll pass tomorrow’s test. If I should die before I wake that’s one less test I’ll have to take.