Dos

BEFORE THE TEST

• Find out from your instructor what to expect. What kind of questions, how many, time limits, is a calculator allowed, does the instructor give partial credit, can you pick which essay questions to answer, can you get a practice test, may you bring a dictionary or translator, what notes, if any, may be brought, etc.?
  
• Get plenty of rest, eat, and make a bathroom stop before coming for the test.
• Relax

DURING THE TEST

• Write down important facts and memory joggers first.
• Read through all questions quickly, especially essay questions. Let your subconscious do some of the work for you!
• Answer the questions you know immediately.
• Look for clues in the test to help you answer questions you are not sure of.
• On multiple choice questions, eliminate the wrong answers, and pick the best one remaining. Do guess, if necessary. The right answer is there!
• Beware of absolutes- “never, always, only.”
• Check arithmetic, algebra signs for operations, and copying your answer from scratch paper three times.
• Give yourself positive messages and relax if tense.
• Keep track of time.
  
  

Don'ts

BEFORE THE TEST

• Don’t procrastinate- take your test as soon after the instructor presents the material, and you study it, as possible. The fresher it is in your mind, the better your results!
• Don’t drink caffeine if it makes your anxiety level too high.
• Do NOT talk with classmates before a test and spiral all your worry levels up!
• Don’t bring cell phones, beeping watches, scratch paper, or notes.

DURING THE TEST

• Don’t change your first answer unless you have a very good reason.
• Don’t leave before the allotted time if you still have questions to answer.
• Don’t forget to check your work. If taking a Scantron (fill in the circle) test, are the answers to each question on the right line?