Academics > Counseling > College Counseling > College Corner > Testing > June's Test-Taking Techniques

June’s Test-Taking Techniques

Be prepared

  1. Get a good night's sleep.
  2. Keep a normal schedule, including eating a “good” breakfast which includes some protein for energy as well as juice and toast.
  3. Avoid arguments or upsets.
  4. Take care of personal needs before the testing session.
  5. Be on time.
  6. Bring #2 pencils with erasers.
  7. Wear a watch.

How to take the tests

  1. Listen carefully to directions that are read to you.
  2. Read directions completely.
  3. Be conscious of time.
  4. Work at your own rate. Do not be concerned about the progress of those around you.
  5. Read the entire question and all the answer choices before trying to answer the question.
  6. Answer all questions that you are sure of first, and then go back to the other questions.
  7. Do not spend too much time on any one question.
  8. As you read the questions, be alert to words such as “sometimes,” “never,” and “always” since they are important to the correct answer.
  9. Do not guess wildly. If, however, you are sure that one or more of the answer choices is incorrect, go ahead and guess.
  10. Do not get discouraged if you cannot answer all the questions.
  11. Work through the test in a calm, positive manner.