How To Take Tests

Why It Matters

Success on tests requires recalling information and using it effectively to answer questions. Using strategies to stay organized, manage anxiety, and optimize memory retrieval can help you demonstrate your knowledge, avoid errors, and perform confidently under pressure.

How to Take Tests

Use the following strategies when taking tests.

1. Spend the first 30 seconds reading the instructions carefully. Knowing whether to show your work or follow specific steps ensures you meet expectations. Spend an additional 30 seconds skimming through the test to understand the types of questions, prioritize tasks, and allocate time. Plan checkpoints (¼ of the way through and ¾ of the way through) to ensure you are on track and leave time to review at the end. 
2. Manage test anxiety by reminding yourself that feeling nervous means you are ready to perform. Think, “This energy will help me focus.” Use positive self-talk by encouraging yourself as you would a friend. Say, “You’ve got this, (your name). Just focus on one step at a time.” Practice calming techniques such as the physiological sigh (inhale deeply, take a second quick inhale, and exhale slowly) or other breathing techniques to help you focus. 
3. Starting with questions you know and can answer quickly can build confidence, helping you approach harder questions with a clearer mind. However, if harder questions carry more points, consider addressing one or two of them early to ensure adequate time, then return to easier questions to secure additional points. Set clear time limits for each section to avoid spending too much time on any single question. Carefully read multi-step questions and divide them into smaller, manageable parts to avoid missing details.
4. Imagine where you studied the material to trigger related memories. Include details like sounds or visuals from your study environment. Recall broader course topics or themes to guide memory retrieval for challenging questions and confirm quick answers are correct and not just strongly associated ideas. If allowed, jot down formulas, key facts, or outlines at the start to avoid forgetting under pressure.
5. Tackle essay questions by first listing all relevant ideas and facts on scratch paper and sorting them by subquestion if there are any. Structure ideas logically and ensure they flow before writing by creating an outline. Use your outline to stay on track and ensure your answer fully addresses the prompt. 

When to Use These Strategies

Use these methods during every test to stay organized, calm, and focused. 

Action Steps:

Before the test, practice calming techniques and review key themes. Start with easy questions if you have anxiety, break down complex problems, and visualization to retrieve difficult information. Review your answers for clarity, accuracy, and alignment with instructions.