Test Taking

Test Taking

1. REACH Strategy

   • Estimate Time: Estimate how long it will take you to finish each section and limit the time spent on each question. Check to make sure you've given yourself enough time to finish the test.
   • Read Directions: Read the set of directions for every section CAREFULLY, underline key information (what is being asked and what you are answering). Look at point values in each section and figure out where you want to begin.
   • Hunt for Careless Efforts: After completing a section go back over your work and make sure there are no careless mistakes in your work and DON'T change an answer unless there is a very good reason to change it.
   • Answer Systematically: If you know the answer, quickly answer it and move on to the next question. If you don't know the answer immediately after reading the question, skip the question and go back to the question after you've answered what you can.
   • Check for Completeness: Check that every question is answered after completing a section. Don't leave questions unanswered, if you're still not sure choose an answer that makes the most sense to you.

2. Learning Cycle

   • Prepare
     • Absorb New Ideas: Listening and understanding what is being taught.
       • Record: Taking notes and asking questions when something is unclear.
         • Review/Apply: Summarizing what you have learned and looking for real word applications of your knowledge

3. Tips for Text Anxiety

   • Be Prepared: If you believe you take good notes over the material taught in class, review your notes regularly, be confident in your ability to complete your test.
   • Bounce Bad Vibes: Clear your mind of all the negative thoughts and visualize a scene where you feel completely calm, take deep breaths and repeat positive affirmations for yourself to boost your confidence.
   • Visualize Success: Picture yourself getting a good grade on your test and take the visualization and come up with reasonable goals that you can work towards
   • It's All About YOU!: Don't compare yourself to other students in the class, especially during a test. Stay focused on your work and your test. Just because someone finished their test first does not mean they did better than you. It's not a race of who can get done first especially when it comes to exams, take your time.
   • Chill Out!: You only do your best when you're relaxed. Before starting the test take a moment to relax your muscles and take a deep breath. This will help clear your mind
   • Have a Plan and Follow It: As soon as the date of the test is announced, immediately make a plan for how you will study and how you will take the test.

4. Tips for Taking Tests

   • Get to your testing room early; Get to the testing area and take out all of the materials you will need to complete the test, this will help you feel better prepared for the test.
   • Write it down; Before starting the test, take a couple minutes and write down formulas you know you will need, write down key terms and tips to help you remember certain topics.
   • Learn as much as you can about the test; What has the instructor told you about your tests, what types of questions will be on the test, is it cumulative?
   • Try to guess what questions will be on the test; If you were the instructor, what questions would you put on the test? Look for possible questions in your notes, review worksheets and quizzes from chapter. Highlight concepts that the teach tells you WILL be on the test.