Category: Test Preparation Tips

It is unwise to stay up all night studying prior to test day. Get plenty of sleep the night before a test. Although spending extra time preparing seems like it will improve your score, you never want to show up to a test tired. Studies show that students who spend more time upfront studying and…

Getting plenty of rest and exercising regularly will enhance your ability to perform well on a test. Eat a nutritious meal prior to taking a test to be alert and focused. Stay away from junk food. Eating junk food or sugar prior to a test will cause your energy levels to deplete quickly and can…

Visual aids, including charts, diagrams and graphs are great study helps – especially if you’re a visual learner. Organizing information into diagrams and charts helps to condense and simplify information and improves recall at test time.

Prepare an outline of the main topics and concepts that will be covered during an exam, then use this sheet to study. This will help you memorize key facts and other information you will be tested on.

Start a final review of all lecture notes, reading assignments, and other class materials that will help you prepare, a couple days before the test. You can do this review by yourself or as part of a study group. Working as part of a study group is an excellent way to review in preparation for…

The more you can glean before a test the better off you’ll be. I still remember showing up for class early on the day of my AP History exam in high school. My teacher, Mr. Farr, was answering a question asked to him by another student seeking some clarification on test subject matter. Whether advertently…

We’d even suggest asking your teacher directly the best way to study for the test. Many teachers are open to sharing with students suggestions, even secrets, as to how best prepare for their exams. Don’t be scared to ask your teacher about what subjects or topics you will be tested on during the exam –…

Almost every teacher has a methodology for preparing test questions – and they tend to use the same methodology each time they prepare a test. Watch for clues your teacher might provide about possible test questions and formats. It is also advisable to participate at test review sessions and ask questions about unclear concepts. Never…

Make time for studying. Setting aside regular time to study is critical for achieving high test performance. We recommend preparing a term calendar, weekly schedule and daily schedule that includes regular study sessions. It’s so easy for work and other activities to quickly take precedence over studying, so plan your study time in advance. As…

It seems like some students thrive on last-minute ‘cramming’. But most experts will agree, cramming isn’t effective. The biggest problem with cramming, according to UCLA professor of psychiatry Andrew Fuligni, is that cramming causes students to sacrifice sleep time in order to study. While it’s not possible to perform well on a test without the…