Study Skills
Test Taking
Test taking skills are really a culmination of of all other study skills. Generally, if you are well prepared, you will do well on tests. The trick is to be well-prepared and to know when you are well-prepared.
Always keep in mind that test are supposed to measure what you have learned. As a result, don't take any knowledge for grated. It is often difficult to write everything we know down because we think, "Well, the professor knows this." Of course, but you want to show the professor that you know the material, too. Being too brief or cryptic in the answers doesn't show one's true understanding of the material.
The best way to prepare for tests (aside from studying of course) is to find out what exactly it is that you are supposed to learn. Sounds simple? It can be:
- First find out the testing format. Will the test contain multiple choice , true/false, short answer, or essay questions? Will the test be a combination of some or all of these?
- Find out the type of knowledge the professor will be testing: Is it straight memorization and comprehension? Are you required to apply this knowledge to new situations? Will you be asked to analyze (or compare and contrast) different scenarios?
- Check out the instructor's webpage and/or office for any clues, and definitely look at the course goals, objectives, and learning outcomes listed in your course outline. These can be true gold mines.
Ultimately, your study approach depends upon the testing type and format. Check out the link below to gather more information on this topic:
Tests and exams
Flinders University. (n.d.). Tests and exams. Adelaide, Australia: Flinders University, Student Learning Center. Retrieved November 8, 2002, from http://adminwww.flinders.edu.au/cas/exams.html
- This is quite an elaborate website with the motto “success comes through PETS: preparation, exam skills, time, self-confidence.” The first section is called “Learning needs a plan,” which includes an explanation of the SQ5R method (survey, question, read, recite, review, reflect). The next section on preparing for exams elaborates on keeping a positive attitude, keeping fit and healthy, drawing up a revision timetable early, and finding out exactly what is required for the test/exam. Finally, the site gives tips on how to take tests.
© 2004 Andrea Kosling, Selkirk College