During+a+Test

Understand the directions.

 * Read them or listen to them carefully
 * Pay close attention to tests with specific answer requirements such as filling in circles, underlining, circling, or showing how you arrive at a math solution.
 * Underline important words.
 * Paraphrase instructions in your head. (Put them into your own words.)
 * Listen for last-minute instructions.
 * Study examples if they are given.
 * Scan the test to determine the type of questions asked.
 * Ask the teacher for clarification.

Establish a time frame.

 * Know what time the test begins and ends.
 * Identify how much time is allotted for the whole test and each type of question or section.
 * What the time as you work.

Use good test sense.

 * Move carefully and systematically from one question to the next.
 * Don't automatically choose the first answer you think is correct. Read every answer.
 * If you are not certain of an answer,
 * eliminate the choices that are obviously wrong to narrow the possibilities.
 * reread the question and select the answer that makes most sense.
 * if needed, make your best choice.

If you skip a question

 * put a check next to it so you can return if there is time.
 * skip the number on the answer sheet if you are using one.