Penn State York - The Learning Center

Before you start, find out if there is a penalty for guessing and if you can choose more than one answer. Read the questions and all possible answers carefully. Be especially careful about questions with the choices "all of the above" and "none of the above." Underline key words and qualifiers such as "never, always," and so on. Answer all of the questions you know first. Make a mark next to those you can't answer so you can go back to them later. After you complete the questions you know, go back and reread the ones you didn't answer the first time. If you still can't answer a question the second time through, read the question: then stop and try to think of an answer. Look to see if one of the choices is similar to your answer. Start by eliminating those answers that you know are not correct and then choose among the alternatives. Read through all of the answers very carefully, and then go back to the question. Sometimes you can pick up clues just by thinking about the different answers you have been given to choose from. Try paraphrasing the question and then recalling some examples. Read the question separately with each alternative multiple choice answer.

Before the Test:

- Review notes daily
- Join a study group
- Read the textbook
- Ask your teacher for the study group questions
- Study consistently, but take study breaks
- Try to guess what questions the teacher will ask
- Write your own "test" before the actual test
- Make flashcards

During Test:

- RELAX!
- Read the directions until you are sure you understand.
- Scan the test.
- Plan your time.
- Make sure you are clear on what is being asked.
- Ask questions if you do not understand.
- For essay questions, make an outline of your answers.
- Make sure you have put an answer for every question--never leave a blank.
- Write clearly.
- Check your test before handing it in, if you have time.
- Do not change answers unless you are sure of the new answer.

After Test:

- Look up any answers you were unsure about.
- Go over test and correct any errors.
- Ask the professor if you are still unclear on an answer.
- Begin preparing for the next test.
- Ask yourself how you could have improved your test preparation.

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