This document provides test-taking strategies and tips. It discusses putting tests in perspective by not stressing over results. Good preparation includes being physically and mentally ready, understanding the test format, and joining study groups. Different tests require tailored strategies, such as process of elimination for multiple choice and outlining ideas for essays. The document warns against cheating and advises recovering from failures by critically analyzing weaknesses and improving strategies.

1. Test-Taking Skills
Dr Mohammed Haroon Rashid

2. First & Foremost…
 Put the test in perspective.
 Of course, you want to do your best,
but remember:
 This test is not the end of the world, all
you are doing is putting marks on a
piece of paper or on a computer screen.
 Be prepared. Relax.
 Know that you will pass the test with
flying colors.

3. Planning Your Approach
 Prepare physically for the exam.
 Prepare mentally for the exam.
 Find out about the test.
 Know what is expected of you.
 Design an exam plan.
 Join a study group.
 Use tutoring and other campus support
resources.

4. Strategies for Various Tests
 One strategy that works for almost all
tests:
 If an answer comes quickly, go with it!
 If you’re really not sure, come back to it
later.
 Otherwise, different tests have
different strategies:
 Objective tests
 Subjective tests

5. Objective & Subjective Tests
 Objective tests include
 multiple choice
 matching
 true-false
 fill in the blank
 Subjective tests
 Short answer
 Essay questions
 Good study strategies
include:
 using flash cards
 making a concept
vocabulary list
 reviewing your text’s
study guide
 reviewing your notes
 work with a tutor
 join a study group

6. Multiple Choice Strategies
 Read the question carefully and try to answer it
before you read the choices.
 Strike out wrong answers.
 Mark answers clearly and consistently.
 Change answers cautiously. Beware of second-
guessing yourself.
 Read all the options before making a choice.
 If you don’t know an answer, move on.
 If all else fails, make an educated guess!!

7. True-False Strategies
 Read the question carefully.
 Go with your hunch.
 Watch for key words:
 Absolutes (never, etc.) are probably false
 Relatives (some, etc.) are probably true
 Double negatives – not untruthful, etc.
 If a part of it is false, all of it is false.
 Answer all questions unless there is
a penalty for guessing.

8. Fill-in-the-Blank Strategies
 Read thoroughly to be sure what is being
asked.
 Be brief and specific.
 Give an answer for every blank.
 Short blanks may have long answers and
vice versa. Don’t assume anything.
 Remember an “a” before a blank wants a
consonant word and “an” a vowel word.
 Watch for key “trigger” words.

9. Essay Question Strategies
 Read the question
carefully.
 What is the question
asking for?
 Outline the key ideas.
 Refer specifically to the
question in your opening
sentence.
 Make a clear, coherent
thesis statement.
 Develop the main body of
the essay to support your
thesis statement.
 Conclude by summarizing
how your thesis is
supported.
 Watch grammar, spelling
and punctuation.
 Use humor if it fits in.
 Be sure you have
completely answered the
question.
 Write legibly.
 Proofread your work.

10. Okay, you flunked it!
Now recover your balance.
 Don’t let yourself become undone by one
failure.
 Use the disappointment to critically think
about
 the causes of the poor performance
 crafting new strategies to improve your
situation.
 Begin by reviewing your test results.
 Talk to your instructor or a tutor.

11. Tempted to cheat?
Resist the Impulse
Cheating can have ugly consequences:
 Cheaters struggle with a nagging conscience, self-doubt,
dissatisfaction, and guilt.
 Humiliation results if you get caught.
 You may, at least, receive a “0” on your exam, or possibly be
expelled from the college or university.
 Professors who catch you cheating may spread the word and
refuse to write letters of recommendation, ruining chances for
graduate study or participation in special programs.
 And remember the person you cheat the most is yourself.

12. Finally, one more time:
The Big Three
Be prepared!
Relax!
Know you can do it!

13. Thank You!Thank You!