Test Taking Tips for College
There are many helpful things to remember when taking an exam in college. One of the best tips for taking a test is to eat well before the test. Studies have shown that good nutrition helps you to concentrate and perform your best. Also, always make sure that you have all the right supplies. Bring pencils, erasers, pens, rulers, calculators, or whatever else you may need on test day. Before you begin an exam, review the whole test before you start. See how many sections and what types of questions are on the test. Try to evaluate how much time you will need to complete each section, and base the amount of time you will spend on a section by its point value. You don’t want to spend too much time on a question that counts for only a few points. Always jot down your first thoughts. From your first look at the test, take quick notes on ideas you might forget. You may even want to outline your answers to written responses and essay questions right away.
During a test, always read the directions. Never assume that you know what the directions say, and answer the easier questions first as answering easier question may jog your memory about useful facts and help you to remember information that can help with other questions. Also, try to identify key words. This may help you to focus on the main idea of more challenging questions. If a question isn’t clear, don’t be afraid to ask your teacher if they can clarify it better for you. It is a good idea to spend time organizing your thoughts before you write; this will reduce the time you need to revise. Be sure to write neatly, you don’t want to lose points because your teacher couldn’t read your response. And finally, use all of the time you have been given. If you finish early, don’t race out. Use the extra time to proofread and edit your answers.
The best way to learn to be a good test taker in college is to first practice being a good test taker while you are still in high school. By practicing good test taking skills while you are still in high school, you will already be a test-taking expert by the time you get to college.