Test-Taking Tips for Standardized Tests

When you begin a test, quickly scan all the questions. This will help you see what the test is about and how many questions you will have to answer.

It is important to manage your time while taking a test. Begin by checking the number of questions in the test and the amount of time you have to take the test. Try to complete about half of the questions by the time you are about halfway through the total test time. Keep track of the time as you work.

Read all DIRECTIONS very carefully. Don’t begin answering questions before you read the directions.

If you feel nervous before a test, try this: Close your eyes and take several slow, deep breaths. Spend a few minutes relaxing your mind.

Try to answer ALL the test questions. Do the easy ones first. When you come to a hard question, don’t spend too much time trying to figure it out. Wait until you have finished the easy questions. Then go back and work on the hard ones.

All tests have some hard questions. They are meant to stump you! It is best to make a good guess at the answer. First, find any choices that you know are wrong. Then look at the leftover choices and make your best guess.

Mark your answers by filling in the circle with a dark pencil mark. If you make a mistake, erase thoroughly. Then fill in the circle next to the correct answer.

When you have finished the test, go back and work on any questions you skipped, or go back and check your answers.