Test and Exam Skills
Test and Exam Strategies
It is important for students to spend some time thinking about what they have done for test or exam prepartion in the past that hasn’t worked so well. There are many test and exam techniques that can allow for maximum success if enough study and preparation has been done. Well before a test or exam, students should find out what types of questions will be asked. Knowing this information provides an opportunity to plan out what questions should be completed first. This is a personal choice; some students like to do multiple-choice questions first, as they believe it is easier and quicker, others like to do extended responses first so as not to ‘forget’ key points. In order for students to know what works best for them, trying a variety of combinations in mock-style tests and exams completed under 'exam' conditions can be a good way to see what order is more comfortable. Note, once this decision has been made, students should stick to it; last minute changes can result in unnecessary confusion and stress.
Follow these simple in-exam techniques for optimal exam success:
- Use reading time effectively – look over the question(s) that you are going to do first, and use this time to prepare your answer(s)
- Use allocated marks to give you clues on how much information to include. Generally, 1 mark is allocated for1 key piece of information in your response to a question
- Make sure answers are concise, correct, and complete
- Keep an eye on the clock – make sure you allow yourself enough time to complete the test or exam, and have time to revise any answers you might not be sure about
Questions types and tips
Multiple Choice Questions are often based on a wide range of topics, and ideas from your unit materials may be combined and phrased differently.
- Use reading time to skim through the questions and find the ‘easy’ ones
- Answer the questions you know first, and then spend more time on the difficult ones later (remember to allow enough time to do both)
- Read the questions carefully and cross out the obviously incorrect answers
- Leave enough time to check your choices and above all, do not second-guess yourself
Short Answer Questions require careful reading and time management. It is always important to devise a plan and be concise and to the point.
- Read short answer questions carefully and take special note of the TASK word. By deconstructing the question, the purpose is made clearer and answering the question easier
- Start with easier questions first to collect marks quickly
- Keep to a time limit - make sure you attempt to answer each question, even if only partially
Extended Responses are often the most daunting and sometimes difficult. Always read the question carefully, and always make sure that your response is answering the question being asked. If you are writing an essay, use appropriate essay structure, including an introduction and a conclusion.
- Plan longer responses – give a few minutes to write down key points and plan out the structure of the response
- Ensure your responses give full details, using metalanguage, theories, and giving examples, but be selective... more is not always better!
- Make sure your responses follow a logical order by using well developed and focused topic sentences, clear and concise explanations, and appropriate evidence
- Leave enough time to proofread your responses
Useful links
