Posted in Test Tips, Tips on August 7, 2010

Standardized test are a way for schools to see how much you know in any particular subject and to discover what areas need to be sharpened. Even though these tests are randomly changed, there are ways to prepare yourself to take the test, which inevitably will enable you to score higher on these tests.

There are preparations that need to take place up to three weeks before the big test is to be taken. You can contact the testing facility and ask them to send a sample test. Study these sample tests and study up on the subjects that will be on the test.

The first thing you should do before taking any test is to have had a good night’s rest. This will help you think clearly without bogging your brain down. It is very helpful to eat a good well-balanced breakfast; this will give you the mental boost you need to stay alert.

If you are taking a standardized test at a testing facility, it is best to arrive early and familiarize yourself with the area; this will avoid you losing time if you need to go to the bathroom. Bring all your supplies you will need and bring extra sharpened pencils: this will save time if your pencil breaks.

The majority of standardized have time limits per subject, so eliminating any delays will improve the number of questions that you will be able to answer. This will also allow you extra time on questions that you are having trouble with.

For some people timed events cause anxiety, if this happens, put your pencil down and relax. Take a few breaths and get up and move around without disturbing others who are taking the test.

To ensure your answers are recorded properly, mark your answers completely. Make sure you fill in the circles completely and make sure you have filled in the correct circle for the numbered question that you are answering.

When the testing is completed, if you feel you have not done well at all you can contact the main testing headquarters and ask that your test not be scored. Let them know that you did not do well at all, and would like to retake the test. The test can be re-scheduled, but a note will be made on your record that you requested a retake. This is will not look bad on your record: it looks better than a bad score.

Posted in Test Tips on March 27, 2010

To do well on a test, you must have good knowledge of the information that is being tested. But you must also have a strategy for taking the test that allows you to show what you know. The DETER strategy can help you do your best on any test. Each letter in DETER reminds you what to do.

D = Directions

  • Read the test directions very carefully.
  • Ask your teacher to explain anything about the test directions you do not understand
  • Only by following the directions can you achieve a good score on the test.
  • If you do not follow the directions, you will not be able to demonstrate what you know.

 

E = Examine

  • Examine the entire test to see how much you have to do.
  • Only by knowing the entire task can you break it down into parts that become manageable for you.

T = Time

Strategy for Taking Tests, Alarm Clock

  • Once you have examined the entire test, decide how much time you will spend on each item.
  • If there are different points for items, plan to spend the most time on the items that count for the most points.
  • Planning your time is especially important for essay tests where you must avoid spending so much time on one item that you have little time left for other test items.

E = Easiest

  • The second E in DETER reminds you to answer the items you find easiest first.
  • If you get stuck on a difficult item that comes up early in the test, you may not get to answer items that test things you know.

R = Review

  • If you have planned your time correctly, you will have time to review your answers and make them as complete and accurate as possible.
  • Also make sure to review the test directions to be certain you have answered all items required.

Using the DETER strategy will help you do better on tests and get better grades.