How to Take a Test

Whether you are testing in college, K-12 or for a specific license, etc. there are procedures to follow that will increase your grade.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. It is important to understand that even if you know the test material thoroughly, that does not guarantee a good test grade result.
   
   Step number one is preparing for the test. This includes taking the time to study and learn the material. *See the link immediately following this article to read "How to Study for a Test."
2. Make sure that the evening before the test date, you get a good night's rest.
3. Eat a nutritious breakfast the morning of the test. Avoid foods that you would not normally eat or those that disagree with your digestive system.
4. Wear loose and comfortable clothing. Make sure that you layer clothing so that you can adjust for temperatures in the testing facility.
5. Remain calm and try to keep your mind off of outside disturbances.
6. Know what provisions will be provided and what you need to bring with you. Only bring those that you are required to bring. Leave cell phones and other electronic devices at home or in your car, locker, etc.
7. Arrive at the test site early. Note: if you do not frequent the location that you will be taking the exam, be sure to print out a map the night before and look over the route.
8. Use the restroom.
9. Listen for directions from the teacher or proctor.
10. Know how much time you will be allotted to finish the test.
11. Put your name on the test.
12. Thoroughly read and make sure that you understand the directions provided before beginning the test.
13. Use the process of elimination to sort thru multiple choices. Cross out or otherwise notate which answers are not correct so that you can focus on the potential answers.
14. Answer the questions that you know first and return to the others. This will give you more time to concentrate towards the middle of your time frame.
15. Do not leave any answer blank if there is no penalty for wrong answers. Even if you do not know the answer, you have a chance at getting it correct. Not answering the question will guarantee that you do not get a correct answer.
16. Review your answers.
17. Leave the final 5 to 10 minutes to make sure that there is an answer provided for all questions, check that all bubbles are filled in completely, etc.

Tips & Warnings

• Not all tips pertain to all tests. Select the ones that work in your situation and disregard the others.