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Study Skills : Taking Tests & Exams
Taking a Test or Exam: sub-module 4 of 4 of studying and test-taking
This module will explain some test-taking strategies that will help you improve your test scores. Research shows that the way we approach tests and exams can have a huge impact on the outcome.
Tips
- Get enough sleep.You will be better able to answer questions if you are rested and alert.
- Read each question carefully.Make sure you understand the question before you answer it.
- Answer the questions you know first.Start with the questions you know. Answer the harder questions next.
Preparing for Tests & Exams
What to Do Before the Test
Preparing well before a test is key to feeling confident and performing your best. This means organizing your study materials, reviewing key concepts regularly, and practicing with sample questions. Giving yourself enough time to study helps reduce last-minute stress and improves your ability to recall information during the exam.
Watch this video to learn good pre-test habits that can help you prepare for tests.
Essential Steps to Prepare Before Your Test
- Prioritize a Good Night’s Sleep
Getting enough rest the night before your test is crucial. Sleep helps your brain process and retain information, improves focus, and boosts your overall mood. Avoid all-nighters whenever possible. Being well-rested will help you think clearly and perform your best. - Gather All Necessary Supplies
Before exam day, make sure you have everything you’ll need: pens, pencils, erasers, a calculator, your student ID, or any allowed materials. Preparing your supplies ahead of time reduces stress and prevents last-minute scrambling that could make you late or distracted. - Arrive Early to the Exam Location
Give yourself plenty of time to get to the exam room so you’re not rushed or stressed. Arriving early allows you to settle in, organize your materials, and mentally prepare. It also gives you a buffer in case of unexpected delays like traffic or finding the right room, and ensures you don’t miss any important instructions or announcements before the test begins. - Choose a Seat Away from Distractions
If you have some choice in seating, pick a spot where you can focus without distractions. Away from doors, windows, or chatty classmates. A quiet, comfortable space helps you concentrate and reduces the chances of your attention wandering during the test.
What to Do During the Test
What you do during the test can make a big difference in your performance. Staying calm, managing your time wisely, and reading each question carefully will help you avoid careless mistakes. Developing strategies like answering easier questions first and reviewing your answers if time allows can boost your confidence and maximize your score.
Watch this video to learn some strategies that you can use during a test to improve your performance.
Smart Strategies to Use During Your Exam
- Preview the Entire Test
Take a few minutes at the start to skim through the whole exam. Note how many questions there are, what topics are covered, and the types of questions you’ll be answering. This overview helps you plan your time and approach effectively. - Allocate Time Based on Question Value
Decide how much time to spend on each question depending on its weight. For example, spend more time on a 40% essay question than on a 5% multiple-choice question. Having a plan prevents you from running out of time on high-value questions. - Do a Mental “Knowledge Dump”
Before diving in, jot down anything you might forget (e.g., formulas, key facts, or concepts) on the back of your exam paper. This frees your memory to focus on answering questions without worrying about forgetting important details. - Read Each Question Carefully
Make sure you fully understand what each question is asking before you start answering. Look out for keywords and instructions to avoid misinterpreting questions or missing parts of them. - Start with What You Know
Begin by answering the questions you’re confident about. This builds momentum and secures easy marks early on. Come back later to any skipped or challenging questions with a fresh mindset (and if need be, your best educated guess). - Outline Your Essay Responses
For essay questions, quickly create a brief outline before writing. Organizing your thoughts helps you write a clear, structured answer and prevents forgetting important points. - Use All Available Time
Don’t rush to finish early. Use any extra time at the end to review your answers, check for mistakes, and add details where needed. Careful review can often improve your score.
Online Tests: How to Prepare for Success
Online exams come with their own set of challenges, such as technical issues and distractions. To set yourself up for success, make sure your device and internet connection are reliable, create a quiet, distraction-free environment, and familiarize yourself with the testing platform ahead of time. Being prepared technologically and mentally can help you stay focused and perform at your best in a virtual setting.
Watch this video to discover strategies to prepare for an online test or exam.
Essential Tips for Success in Online Tests
- Be Fully Prepared
Know all the important details before test day—where the test will take place (which platform or location), the test format (multiple choice, essay, timed, open book), the exact date and time, what materials you’re allowed to use, and the evaluation criteria. Having this information helps avoid surprises and lets you prepare effectively. - Use Targeted Study Strategies
Focus your studying by using the course outline or syllabus to identify key topics likely to be covered. Narrowing your focus helps you study more efficiently and feel confident going into the test. - Organize Your Space and Materials
Set up a quiet, comfortable, and distraction-free workspace with a reliable internet connection. Gather all necessary materials (e.g., pens, calculator, scratch paper, or anything else allowed) before the test starts so you won’t waste time looking for them later. - Prioritize Rest
Get a good night’s sleep before the test to ensure your mind is sharp and alert. Being well-rested can significantly improve focus and recall during the exam. - Minimize Distractions
Create a focused testing environment by letting housemates or family members know you’ll be taking an exam, and ask them to avoid interruptions. Turn off notifications on your phone and social media to stay fully present during the test. - Communicate with Your Instructor
If any questions or concerns arise while you’re preparing, don’t hesitate to reach out to your instructor for clarification. Understanding expectations ahead of time helps you feel more confident and ready.