Test Taking 101

This is generally the time when your teachers start giving out your first big test of the year. I don't know about you but, next week I'm pretty sure I have huge unit tests in three of my classes. Tests can be very stressful at times because you have one shot to take them, and they usually count for a pretty large portion of your grade. But don't worry because I have some guidelines you can follow to make sure you do your best.

1)      Try not to over think the question. If at first the question seems unusually complicated, read it again. Most of the time it is a lot simpler than you would think. Always go with the simple answer that you can clearly defend rather than the more complicated one that sounds fancier.

2)      Use the review sheets the teacher gives you. This will be key because looking back at all of material you have learned takes a lot more time than learning what’s on the review sheet. Plus, most likely the teacher will put exactly what you need to know for the test on it. Although, I have had some sneaky teachers in the past put questions on the test that had nothing to do with what was reviewed, so watch out for that.

3)      Don’t stress out over this. It is one test. It’s not going to ruin your life if you do less than perfect on it. Plus, being overly stressed can lead to stupid mistakes that will bring your grade down even lower. So, stay calm and try to think through each problem and do your best.

4)      If you have absolutely no idea what the answer is, just guess. Never leave anything blank because there is always a chance you could get it right. If all else fails, choose either C or the answer with the most words and explanation. Those typically are the right answers.

5)      It is okay to be the last one in the class still taking the test. It is better to go slow and double check your work for stupid mistakes rather than rushing through it and creating more of them.

6)      I know most people would say not to stay up late the night before studying, but I would disagree. If you are behind in a class, I would recommend taking all the time you need to study the review sheets or get caught up in the class. You will end up knowing more than if you call it quits and go to bed. But, do make sure you still get at least some sleep that night. The next morning, however, make sure to grab some coffee to keep you awake so you don’t fall asleep when taking the test.

So, there you go, tips for how not to fail a test. Tests and school can be hard at times but you got to do what you got to do to get the grades you deserve.

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