10 Tried and True Test Taking Tips

Number two pencils are not the only thing you need for test day!

Reporting to a test prepared both physically and mentally can help you succeed on test day. Whether you’re taking a simple quiz, an EOC exam, or a standardized test like the SAT or ACT, here are 10 things to remember about test day!

Looking for more tips and study skills?

Be sure to join an upcoming test-taking webinar or watch one of our recordings here.

1) Study Beforehand

If you know what is on the test ahead of time, read and review. Take time to study material you DO NOT know. Use notecards and quiz yourself.

2) Eat and Sleep Ahead of Time

Arrive to the test rested. Do not cram and pull an all-nighter the night before. Eat a well-balanced meal prior to the test to avoid hunger distractions and loss of energy.

3) Arrive Early

Be prepared by making a list and bringing all necessary items on test day. Some tests require a number two pencil and ID for entry. Always be alert and ready as to avoid any initial stress.

4) Follow the Three Cs: Stay Cool, Calm, and Collected

Choose comfortable clothing and layer so you are neither too hot nor too cold. Don’t talk to others right before the test, their nerves can influence your mood. Keep a good attitude and remain calm. Take deep breaths if you find you are getting anxious.

5) Read Directions Carefully

Avoid careless mistakes by thoroughly reading all directions before answering.

6) Look It Over

If there is time, scan the test ahead of time. Simply looking over what you are about to do can alleviate anxiety and the fear of the unknown.

7) Use A Strategy

Answer the easiest questions first. This will build confidence and help gauge your time. Don’t linger on one question too long. Use the process of elimination to eliminate incorrect answers and narrow down your choices. If time permits, you can come back and review. Go back and answer the trickiest questions last. Show your work when applicable and use an outline for essay tests with a sequence of points you wish to make.

8) Stay Positive

Recognize that in order to succeed you need to make decisions about your priorities, your time, and your resources. Positive thoughts and visualization can help curb test anxiety and control your mood and outcome.

9) Be Careful When Changing Answers

Gut instincts and our first responses are more likely to be correct. Change answers only when you have misread the question or you know for certain you have erred.

10) Review

If there is time, review your answers. Check for errors, blanks, and mismarked answers. For more tips and tools on testing be sure to check out the FLVS Counselor Team’s webinar on Thursday, April 16 at 6 p.m. EST. Here’s the info:

Test Taking & Study Skills (SAT, ACT, PERT): Everything you need to know to be prepared for the big day…

Do you freak out before an exam? Are you overwhelmed trying to determine how or what to study? Do you often second guess yourself or get stuck determining the right answer? If you answered yes to one or more of these questions, please join the FLVS counselors for some test taking tips and strategies that are sure to help. We will share with you all you need to know to prepare for those pesky college placement tests (SAT, ACT, and PERT).

Mark your calendars for Thursday, April 16 at 6 p.m. EST and plan to join us at www.tinyurl.com/FLVScounselors as we give you all the secrets you need to succeed on test day!