FAQS

Before the Test—get as prepared as you can 

    Take notes
    Summarize them after each session/module
    Review the notes daily
    Create mind map summary sheets
    Create flashcards—go through them often (until your responses are automatic)
    Make and take a practice test—predict from the assignments and notes what will be on the test
    Explain course concepts to someone who doesn’t know the subject matter—then you really uncover what you need to revisit
    As you study for exams, ask yourself which study strategies work best for you.  If you are struggling, try something else and see how that works for you.
    Get help when you need it—make an appointment for tutoring through the Books & Tools area in your course. 

During the Test—remind yourself about how much you prepared for the test

    Ask if you can use scratch paper during the test.  Write down the concepts you are afraid you’re going to forget before you start.
    Multiple choice tests

• read the question and answer it in your head before you look at the answer
• read through all answers before selecting
• eliminate incorrect answers

    True/False tests

• Read the entire question
• Look for absolutes (all nothing, always, never, etc.)—these generally indicate a false statement.

After the test 

    Go through the graded exam and look at your errors (learn from them).  What kind of error did you make?  After you identify that, make adjustments and remember for next time.

• Study errors: didn’t study enough or studied content that wasn’t on the test
• Careless errors: not reading directions or skipping questions
• Concept errors: when you didn’t understand a concept or the material

Test anxiety and how to combat it

    Be prepared for the exam
    Positive self-talk—E.g. I can do this.  I’ve prepared and I know these concepts.  The instructor just wants to hear about what I’ve learned and how I can apply it—that’s all.
    Get plenty of sleep
    Eat nutritious foods and do not use caffeine

Information taken from: Ellis, D. (2006). Becoming a master student (13th ed., annotated instructor’s ed.).  Boston, MA: Wadsworth, Cengage Learning.