Whether we like it or not, tests will always be part of our academic pursuits. Rather than become anxious and upset about tests, it is better to prepare for them as best as we can. Below are some helpful tips to help you become a better test-taker!
Before the Test
Be sure to get a good night's rest, and eat a good breakfast the day of
a test. This will help you to perform at your best levels.
When you get your test, skim, or look over it, first. This will give
you an idea of what is expected.
Be sure to read the directions carefully. Not following directions
could cost you points on your test score. Also, make sure you
know whether or not the test is timed, so you can pace yourself
accordingly.
Most reading tests have a passage followed by questions. Read the
questions before you begin, so you know what information is
important when you are reading. This will also help to make locating
specific information easier when answering questions.
During the Test
As stated earlier, most reading tests will ask you to read a passage
then answer some questions. If you are allowed, highlight
or underline information that you think will help you answer
questions correctly.
Make sure you know exactly what the question is asking. Some
questions are tricky, so read every word.
There are two main types of questions on a test - literal and
inferential. Literal questions simply ask for a fact from the
story. You should go back into the passage and find the answer
right in the story. Look for key words in the question, then focus
on finding them in the passage.
Inferential questions are a little more difficult. You have to think
about information the author gave you and what you already
know to come up with the correct answer. This is called
making an inference. To help you answer these types of
questions, look for key words in the question then focus on
finding those words in the passage. When you locate those words,
read that sentence, the sentence before it, and one or two
sentences after it.
In most tests, the questions follow the sequence of the story. For
example, the information about question #1 would probably be
in the first paragraph. You probably would find information for the
last question towards the end of the passage.
If you come to a question that is very difficult, read the question
out loud (in a low voice so as not to distract others) and try to
visualize, or make a picture in your mind, of what the question is
asking.
If the question requires you to write the answer, restate the
question in sentence form and then write the answer. For example,
Question: What was Travis' first dog's name in Old Yeller?
Answer: Travis' first dog's name in Old Yeller was Bell.
