Test Preparation

    The key to doing well in tests is PREPARATION. If you plan to do well, you probably will. But what, exactly, does planning involve? Well, here are some helpful hints. While some of the items listed below work best for classroom-based courses, the Distance Education student will also benefit from the general principles.

    1. Go to class (read the "lectures" for Distance Education courses)

    2. Read the text and complete all assignments

    3. Take good notes (see Note Taking Process)

    4. Regularly review and study the material (daily, weekly, etc.)

    5. Organize your review tools

        study sheets
        summaries
        flashcards
        study checklists

    6. Prepare some possible test questions (What do you think will be on the test, and how would you answer?)

    7. Be aware of topics identified by the instructor

    8. Pay special attention to past quizzes, tests, and special reviews

    9. Spend the night before the test on a final review

      • Note the word "final"; do not wait until the last minute to start; begin your review early, and you will only need to "spark" your memory the night before.

    10. Be on time for the test, and be ready

      11. If you are not on time and do not have all the necessary materials, you are setting yourself up for failure.

    11. Read all directions carefully

    12. If the test is timed, set up a schedule to budget your time

      13. Allow yourself time at the start to think through your answer, then time to write it. Finally, be sure to leave yourself some time at the end to review/revise what you have written.

      If the test is untimed, follow the same steps, just don't be concerned about how much time you spend on each step.

    Follow these steps, and you will be much more likely to do well on your tests.

    Good Luck!