Prepare for Test Taking

You can take a number of steps to learn more about upcoming tests and exams.

180

Find Out about the Test. Ask your instructor what format the test will have, such as essay, multiple-choice, true/false, fill-in-the-blank, or short-answer questions. Ask how long the test will last and how it will be graded. Ask whether all questions will have the same point value.

Design an Exam Plan. Use the information about the test as you design a plan for preparing. Build that preparation into a schedule of review dates. Develop a to-do list of the major steps you need to take to be ready. Be sure that you have read and learned all the material at least one week before the exam. That way, you can use the final week to review and prepare for the exam. The week before the exam, set aside a schedule of one-hour blocks of time for review and make notes on specifically what you plan to accomplish during each hour.

Join a Study Group. You have seen the suggestion to join or form a study group in other chapters because it is one of the most effective strategies for doing well in college, especially in preparing for exams. You can benefit from different views of your instructors’ goals, objectives, and emphasis; have your study partners quiz you on facts and concepts; and gain the support and friendship of others to help sustain your motivation.

Some instructors will provide time in class for the formation of study groups. You might also choose to approach classmates on your own. Otherwise, ask your teacher, adviser, or campus tutoring or learning center to help you identify interested students and decide on guidelines for the group. Study groups can meet throughout the term, or they can just review for midterms or final exams. Group members should complete their assignments before the group meets and prepare study questions or points of discussion ahead of time. If your study group decides to meet just before exams, allow enough time to share notes and ideas.

image
Strength in Numbers Study groups can meet anytime, but studying and reviewing with others in your class can be most helpful just before and just after a test or exam.
image
181

Get a Tutor. Most campus tutoring centers offer their services for free. Ask your academic adviser, counselor, or campus learning center about arranging for tutoring. Many learning centers employ student tutors who have done well in the same courses you are taking. These students might have some good advice on how to prepare for tests given by particular instructors. Learning centers often have computer tutorials that can help you refresh basic skills.