Top Ten Standardized Testing Tips

KiaraS, Acting Editor-in-ChiefMarch 31, 2017Leave a Comment

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  1. Stay calm-

This may seem like an obvious one, but it is one of the most important. Take deep breaths and relax. Everything will be okay. You will not fail because you don’t get number 48 right.

  1. Do not panic-

Contrary to what you may think in the moment, you DO know the answer. You would not have made it this far into the year if you didn’t know the material. Remember, you can always skip the question then come back to it.

  1. Arrive to your testing room early-

Yes it is early in the morning, but if you show up early, you will be able to take a few minutes beforehand to calm your nerves and ease some anxiety. Showing up late will cause even more stress and having to rush may cause you to do poorly.

  1. Plan how you will use your time-

You don’t need to plan it down to the minute, but if you have even a loose frame of time management, you will be able to to test more efficiently.

  1. Don’t second guess yourself-

Test makers want you to pick between the correct answer and a good answer, don’t fall into their traps. More often than not, your first instinct will be right. Trust yourself.

  1. Go over material you struggle with the night before-

If you make a list and review it again before you wind down for the day, you will be able to make it stick better.

  1. Do not rush-

The time may seem to go by way too fast, but remember to pace yourself. Rushing may allow more room for error so be sure to manage your time effectively.

  1. Eat a good breakfast-

If you are a regular breakfast eater, eat a nutritious breakfast before the test because who knows when lunch time will be. You could be sitting during the test and only be thinking of how hungry you are.

  1. Don’t force yourself to eat a good breakfast-

On the other side of the previous tip, if you are someone who almost never eats breakfast, not having breakfast will not negatively impact your test. Do not interrupt your daily routine on the day of the test.

  1. Be confident-

Go in the testing room with a positive attitude. Tell yourself you will do great and that you will get the scores you want. Negative attitudes can lead to equal negative results.

 

One final reminder- these tests are not the end all be all; everything will be okay.