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Step 1
Scan the test questions and divide your time based on the number and type of the questions as well as the point value for the questions if the values are printed on the test. Strategize by prioritizing the questions as to which ones have the highest point value and that can therefore make or break a test score.
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Step 2
Read each question carefully before providing the answers. Leaving the simple problems for later is not a good strategy. Do the simple and easy problems that you can do quickly first. A good strategy to follow when a test requires you to match a specific word to its definition is to complete the ones you know first, therefore decreasing the number of words you do not know the definition for.
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Step 3
Underline or circle key words if you are allowed to write on your test paper. Put a mark next to each of the questions you cannot answer and reread a question if you get confused. Go on to the next question if you have no idea at all on how to answer a question so that you will not be wasting valuable time. These strategies will allow you time to go back over the test after you have reached the end in order to complete any unanswered questions.
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Step 4
Come up with a panic strategy, since being under pressure during a test can lead to your getting upset over something as small as a pencil lead breaking or running out of ink, and can make you forget important material. Give yourself a brief time out of about 20 or 30 seconds, put the test temporarily out of your mind and visualize something pleasant.
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Step 5
Check over the test to make sure you did not miss anything, finish any questions unanswered questions and check your work for careless mistakes, spelling or grammatical errors, and omitted answers. This strategy could raise your score by as much as a whole letter grade.
