Test Preparation & Test-taking
Test questions are either: OBJECTIVE or SUBJECTIVE.
Objective:

Fill in the blank

True/False

Matching

Multiple Choice

Open Note/Book
Subjective:

Essay

Short Answer

Oral

Open Note/Book
Fill in the blank:

Use context clues 
Use grammar
Use other parts of test
True/False:

Statement must be 100% true to be "true" 
Look for extremes/absolutes
Key words usually false: 
      no, never, none, always, every, entirely, only
Key words usually true: 
      sometimes, often, frequently, ordinarily, generally
When in doubt, guess "true"
Use other parts of the test
Matching:
Be aware of # of answers & questions
      (do you use them all or not?)
Do the ones you know first, & mark 
      them off.
Use process of elimination.
Use other parts of the test.


Multiple Choice:
Read carefully. You may need to select the one INCORRECT option or choose more than one answer.
Eliminate obvious wrong answers.
Watch for extreme/absolute terms (always, never, often...).
Use process of elimination.
If in doubt, select "all of the above" if that's an option.
If in doubt, select "C."
Use other parts of the test.
Essay Questions:
Underline or circle key words in question. Note specifics of what must be answered.
Use the question to create your thesis statement.
Make a mini outline in the margin.
Follow your outline.
Pace yourself based on time and the point value of the question compared to the whole test.
Write as legibly as possible.
Use other parts of the test.
Short Answer:
Can you list or do you need complete sentences?
Pace yourself regarding time and point-values.
No need for intro or conclusion.
Be succinct yet complete.
Use other parts of the test.
Oral Questions:
Take a quick moment to compose your thoughts.
Depending on the type/content of test: use impromptu PREP formula:
Point-State your point to the question.
Reason-State a reason supporting your point.
Example-Give an illustration which supports your reason.
Point-can be summed up.
Use other parts of the test.

Open Note/Book:
Tab/mark your notes & book by relevant sections, formulas, charts, etc. to save time.
Use the index.
If it's a take-home test, block out adequate time to complete it. These types are often harder than an in-class & take much more time.
Before the test...
Day of/During the test...
Before the test...
Do you know when & where your test is?
Do you have the materials you need (writing utensils, ID, calculator, etc.?) -- What is/is not allowed?
Pace your studying by using your planner. Spreading it out is much better than cramming.
Get a good night's sleep.
Day of/During the test...
Eat breakfast.
Make sure you have relevant materials.
Show up a little early & use extra time for review.
Breathe deeply & try to relax.
Listen for last minute instructions.
Put your name on the test.
Skim through the entire exam first.
Answer easier questions first.
Don't spend a lot of time on questions that are worth few points. 
Pace yourself & keep track of time.
Tools you can use:
Create a study plan & follow it!
Create & work with a study group.
Review, review, review!

Use a different note-taking method to rewrite your notes.


The more frequently and the various ways you work with the information, the better you will remember it!
Use online resources:
Washburn Academic Success Center www.washburn.edu/tutoring
Assignment Calculator www.lib.umn.edu/help/calculator
Study Guides & Strategies   www.studygs.net

      

Use your library & the extended hours!

Use flashcards:
Studystack.com
Studyblue.com (syncs w/Evernote)
Utah State University-Idea Sheets www.usu.edu/arc/idea_sheets
      *Test Preparation
      *Test Taking
UCF Student Academic Resource Center
      www.sarc.sdes.ucf.edu/?id=studyskills_handouts
      *Test Prep
      *Test Taking
Cornell method
Mindmapping
Outlining
Paragraph format
Listing/charting