Study Skills-Course Material

8/8/2019 Study Skills-Course Material

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Ms.Seema A. Raza 2010

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Bahria University, IslamabadEnglish-II (104)

Topic: 1 Study Skills

Content

A. General Study SkillsGuide1. Improving Your Note Taking2. Effective Listening3. A Strategy for Solving Math Word Problems4. Dealing With Test Anxiety5. Finding A Good Place to Study6. Study Groups7. Identifying Your Learning Styles8. A Strategy for Reading Textbooks9. Improving Reading Comprehension10.Improving Your Memory for Information11.Strategies for Building Vocabulary12.Writing a Research Paper: Step-by-Step Procedures

B. Test Taking Study SkillsGuide1. Strategies for Test Taking2. Multiple Choice Test Taking Tips3. Test Preparation Tips4. Essay Tests5. True / False Tests6. Oral Tests7. Short Answer Tests8. Quantitative / Math Tests9. Open Book Tests10.ACT Test Taking Strategies


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Study Skills

Developing effective study skills, improving reading comprehension, discovering your own personal

study style, learning to manage your time more efficiently and learning the best way to prepare for

exams are just a few topics covered here in this unit. If you learn and apply the following concepts and

principles you will not only improve your performance in university but you will also increase your abilitto learn.

A.General Study SkillsGuide1. Improving Your NoteTaking

Learning how to take good notes in class is an important part of study preparation. The information provided an

topics covered by your teacher are what you will be studying. If you dont take good notes in class you wont kno

what to study once class is over.

The following tips can help you take effective notes:

y Make clearand accuratenotesClearly written, accurate notes help to capture information for later study and review. Often when taking

notes in class you'll understand what the teacher is saying so you decide not to take clear and accurate

notes only to find out later that you can't remember what the teacher was saying and that your notes

aren't clear or accurate enough for you to remember the details of the lecture. Taking accurate and clea

notes will (1) ensure that you understand the subject matter being discussed, (2) help to concrete in you

mind what is being taught and (3) will provide you the means to go back after class and review the subje

matter being taught.

y Come to class preparedThere is nothing that will help you take better notes than coming to class prepared. Before coming toclass make sure that (1) you have read all assigned texts and (2) that you have reviewed your notes from

the previous class. Coming to class prepared will help you take much better notes. You'll be able to take

more detailed notes on items you don't fully understand. You'll be able to ask questions that will lead to

more accurate and useful note taking. And you'll be better prepared to learn new information not

covered in previous class lectures.

y Compare yournotesWhen class is over compare your notes to those taken by other students. Sometimes other students will

pick up on things discussed by the teacher that you missed or didn't find important. Comparing notes wi

help ensure that your notes are complete and accurate.

y Minimize distractionsIf you're serious about your education then you'll want to remove any distractions that keep you from

concentrating on class lectures and taking copious notes. Sit close to the front of the room, don't sit nex

to individuals youre tempted to talk to during class and try to stay away from any other situation that

would distract you during class.

y Organize yournotesStart each class with a clean sheet of paper. Put the day's date at the top of your notes along with any


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other relevant information (i.e. history notes, chemistry notes, etc.) This will help you to keep track of

each days notes and increase your ability to go back and review your notes for exams and quizzes.

y Useabbreviationsand symbolsIn some classes it can be difficult to write down everything that the teacher or professor is saying.

Therefore, use short sentences and phrases and easily remembered abbreviations and symbols in order

make sure you're able to keep up with the lecture. The following are few common abbreviations and

symbols that student can use to speed up their note taking: cp (compare), ie (that is), eg (for example), w

(with), w/o (without), &, + (and), = (equals, is). There are number of other abbreviations that you can

come up with to increase your note taking speed. You must make sure that you remember what each

abbreviation is or that you have a key that tells you what each abbreviation means.

y Write clearlyIt doesn't matter how many notes you can take if you can't make sense of your notes after the lecture is

over. Make sure to write clearly -- especially if you're using abbreviations. Its also useful to leave plenty

of blank space in the left margin or in between ideas or new concepts so that you can come back later a

add more information.

y Review yournotesReview your notes as soon as you can. Reviewing your notes directly following a lecture will make sure

that (1) you understand your notes, (2) you understood the lecture and (3) it will help you to concrete in

your mind the concepts and information you learned.

y Write down questionsQuite frequently you're going to find -- especially as you enter college -- that is can be difficult if not

impossible at times to understand everything the teacher is talking about. Make sure to write down any

questions you have or concepts you didn't completely understand so that you can go back after class and

ask the teacher specific questions or use reference resources to better understand difficult concepts.

Effective note taking is one of the keys to effective studying. Most successful students, whether they are in high

school or college, are excellent note takers.

2. Effective Listening

Learning requires listening. Learning effectively requires effective listening. Even though listening is one of the

most important skills for effective learning, most students are not good listeners. Since most of what you are

required to learn in school is going to be communicated to you by a teacher or professor, it is imperative that you

learn to list. And dont make the mistake of thinking that hearing and listening are the same thing they are ver

different. When you listen to what someone is saying, you are not only hearing what they are saying you are also

processing what they are saying.

The following are tips for improving your ability to listen:

Listen for meaning

Pay attention not only to the words being spoken by your teacher but to the thoughts and messages they conve

Identify the main idea, concept or subject being addressed and the relating issues. Listen for explanations,

descriptions and clarifications. Again, don't just hear the words, listen to the meanings being communicated.


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Adjust yournote takingstyle to thelecture

Poor listeners try to write down everything, believing a detailed outline and effective notes are the same thing.

They get frustrated when they cannot see the meaning behind what they are writing down or they go to review

their notes and don't understand the concepts that were taught in class. Effective listeners adjust their note-

taking to the lecture style. They listen to what is important, they try to understand concepts and they take notes

that clarify, organize and reiterated important details of the lecture.

Tackle difficult to understand material

Frequently, when a teacher starts to lecture on a topic or concept that is difficult to understand students stop

listening. They are hearing what the teacher is saying but they are not processing the information they are

hearing. Effective listeners tackle difficult material and expend the brain power required to process what they ar

hearing even when it is difficult.

Concentrateand pay attention

Poor listeners frequently are poor concentrators. Effective listening requires that you concentrate and pay

attention. Remove all thoughts of home, friends, fun and ancillary activities from your head while the teacher is

speaking. Learning to focus and concentrate will help you become an effective listener and a much more effectiv

student.

Be prepared

It is difficult to listen and mentally process what you're hearing when you come to your class unprepared. If your

teacher gives you a reading assignment or homework designed to prepare you to understand a topic its

important that you are familiar with the topic before it is discussed in class. Being ready to listen means being

prepared for each class ahead of time.

Focusonwhat is important

Poor listeners focus on fact. They may retain a few of those facts, but the information is usually garbled. Effectiv

listeners focus on main ideas, fundamental concepts and vital issues.

Choose tobe interested

One of the most tell tale signs of a poor listeners is that they just can't find what the teacher is talking about to b

interesting. As a consequence they don't listen with real intent and often miss important topics and details being

addressed. Good listeners are able to decide to be interested in the subject matter being addressed by the

teacher. As a result they listen more intently and effectively.

3.A Strategy for SolvingMathWord Problems

Word problems challenge students of all ages -- especially when they involve math. The SQRQCQstrategy to

solving math problems can be used in education programs of all levels. It can also be adapted to meet the needs

of special education settings. SQRQCQ stands for Survey, Question, Read, Question, Compute, Question.

y Survey theMath ProblemWhen trying to solve a math word problem the first thing you should do is read the entire problem in order t

get a good idea of what the problem is about. Try to determine what the problem is requiring, what parts of

the problem are most important and if there is any information in the problem that is not relevant to solving

the problem.


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y QuestionNow that you're familiar with the problem try and figure out what the problem is asking you to do (i.e.

estimate, calculate area, multiply, etc.) You can't solve a problem if you don't know what you're trying to

solve.

y ReadNow go back and read the math word problem again but this time focus on the specific details of the probleIdentify which parts of the problem relate to each other and try and figure out what form your answers

should be in (i.e. millimeters, meters, liters, gallons, time units, etc.).

y QuestionAfter re-reading the problem pay close attention to the specific details. Determine which math operation(s)

the problem will require. List the operations in the order to be performed on a piece of paper.

y ComputeYou are now ready to perform each math operation. Perform each operation in the order listed on your pap

and check off each one as it is completed.

y QuestionTake a look at your answer(s) and determine if your answer seems reasonable. If it doesn't appear reasonab

go back repeat the steps above and check your answers at each step of the operation and make necessary

corrections until you arrive at a reasonable answer.

4. DealingWith Test Anxiety

Its completely normal to experience anxiety at some time or another we all do. And while we may not enjoy

feeling anxious, a little bit of anxiety can be beneficial. A little bit of anxiety helps to keep you motivated, focused

and alert. However, too much anxiety may interfere with your ability to study, learn, remember things and

perform well when taking tests. Too much anxiety about taking tests is referred to as test anxiety. The following

are a few tips for dealing with too much test anxiety:

y Develop good study habits. Good study habits will not only prepare you to address test material but thewill also provide you with confidence that will help to reduce unhealthy test anxiety.

y Be prepared. Being totally prepared for a test is the most important thing you can do to reduce anxiety.Knowing that you know the material on the test will provide you the confidence you need to overcome

anxiety and the ability to perform. You've got good reason to be overly anxious if you go into a test

unprepared.

y Don't cram! Cramming for tests can leads to test anxiety. If you prepare for your test ahead of time you'be able to reduce a lot of test anxiety associated with last minute cramming.

y Get adequateexercise. Getting adequate exercise and staying in shape is believed to help sharpen themind.

y Get plenty ofsleep. Getting a good night's sleep before an exam can help reduce test anxietydramatically. Conversely, not getting a good nights rest before an exam will make you tired while taking

an exam and will lead to increased test anxiety.


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y Get plenty toeat. Don't take an exam on an empty stomach. Its quite common not to want to eat beforan exam due to anxiety. However, if you get a good meal before taking an exam you'll experience less

anxiety and your mind will be keener.

y Stay positive. Don't focus on failing the test. Focus on acing the test and you probably will. Thinking abowhat might happen if you fail will lead to unnecessary anxiety and just might become a self fulfilling

prophecy.

y Focuson thelearningexperience. Don't think of a test as the final judgement. Rather view each test as alearning experience and you'll get much less stressed out.

y Stay relaxed. Take slow, deep breaths and stay in control.5. FindingAGood Place to Study

Finding a good study space is an important part of effective studying. If your surroundings are distracting, you

cannot expect to study very well. This doesn't mean that you have to find a place that's secluded and dead silent

either. The most important thing is that you find a study space that fits your specific learning style.

For example, some individuals are able to concentrate better with a little noise in the background while others a

easily distracted by any noise at all. Some individuals can concentrated perfectly well in the middle of the library

amongst dozens of people constantly passing by while others are able to concentrate better studying in a cubica

where there is no vision distraction at all.

While each individual has a personal learning style and preferences, below are a few suggestions that might help

improve your study experience.

y CreateaRoutineAssign yourself a specific place to study and set a regular time to study each day. Some people like to

study in the library. Others find the library very distracting. Some people like to study outside. Others fin

studying outside difficult because they are tempted to get up and "smell the roses". A person may like

studying in his room while his best friend may hate studying in his room because he is always tempted to

play video games. There is no perfect study place for everyone -- but there is a perfect study place for

you. Your goal is to find it.

It may sound a little bit tedious but creating a set study routine will also improve your ability to study

effectively. Studying at the same time each day or each week -- in your study place of choice -- will ensu

that you develop a habit of studying and studying effectively.

y Yourstudy placeshould be comfortableIf you plan on doing a lot of studying you need to make sure that your study place is absolutelycomfortable. Set up your chair, computer and desk in such a way that you don't hurt your hands, wrists,

neck or back. Little discomforts can turn into repetitive stress injuries if they are not addressed. Also,

stock your study place with all of the tools you'll need (i.e. pens, pencils, dictionaries, etc.) so you aren't

constantly disrupting your studying.

You may want to ensure that your study place has adequate lighting. Many people will find a comfortabl

study place but find that studying is difficult because they don't have adequate lighting.


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y Evaluate yourstudy preferencesAs mentioned previously, each individual has individual learning style and preferences. Before you selec

study place you should try to figure out what your learning style and preferences are. Are you distracted

by noise? Are you distracted by visual interruptions? Do you do study better for long periods of time or d

you need regular breaks? Again, there isn't a strict rule for how you should study but it is important to

discover your study preferences and evaluate your study space to make sure it is adequate for your

needs.

y Createstudy rulesand follow themIf you're constantly being criticized by your parents when it comes to your study habits then we

recommend that you (1) establish some study rules and (2) that you communicate those rules to your

parents. For example, if one of your study preferences is to study for a period of time and then take a

short break, make sure to communicate this to your parents so that it does not appear that you're

slacking.

If the only person you answer to is yourself it is still better that you create study rules and that you stick

by them.

Find a good place to study, discovering your personal learning preferences and establishing a few useful study

rules will go a long way toward ensuring an effective study experience.

6. Study Groups

One of the most effective ways for preparing for class discussions and exams is by using a study group. Study

groups provide a number of benefits to the learning process. For starters studying with others in a small group is

helpful to everyone because you think out loud, share ideas and learn from one another. Listed below are some

the major benefits of study groups, guidelines for putting together and some ideas for how to maximize the valu

of each study group session.

Benefits of a Study Group

y Improve you notesStudy group members can help the individuals improve their class notes by sharing notes.

y Sharing talentsEveryone has different strengths and weakness. By participating in a study group you are able to benefit

from the talents of other group members.

y Support systemStudy groups can provide emotional and physical support. If you're feeling down a study group member

can help motivate you. If you're going to miss class one day a study group member can take notes for yowhen you are gone and fill you in on the details when you get back.

y Cover more materialStudy groups can help you cover more material. Having three people working on a difficult math problem

is more effective than having just one person work on it. Also, when you have a lot of ground to cover yo

can make assignments and then report back to the group what you learned.


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7. Identifying Your Learning Styles

There are a number of different learning styles and learning preferences. The most common include Visual

Learning Style (the most common), Auditory Learning Style and Tactile (Kinesthetic) Learning Style. Additional

learning styles and preferences include Logical (mathematical), Social (interpersonal) and Solitary (intrapersonal)

There is no right mix. Nor are your styles fixed. Some people may find that they have a dominant style of learning

with far less use of the other styles. Others may find that they use different styles in different circumstances. Yo

can develop ability in less dominant styles, as well as further develop styles that you already use well.

Visual Learning StyleIndividuals that learn best when ideas or subjects are presented in a visual format, whether that is written

language, pictures, diagrams or videos are visual learners. Visual learners usually learn best when the teacher

provides written study notes, writes on the chalkboard and uses an overhead projector to explain concepts. Visu

learners frequently take detailed notes in class, when studying from a textbook or listening to lectures. They also

create diagrams and use pictures to understand and remember concepts and ideas. If this sounds like you then

you are probably a visual learner many people are.

Auditory Learning Style

If you learn best by participating in class discussion, by listening to your teacher lecture, listening to audio tapes

by listening to other language formats then you are probably an Auditory Learner. Auditory Learners, unlike Visu

Learners, are able to learn, understand and retain information better when they hear it rather than see it.

Tactile Learning StyleTactile Learners, also commonly referred to as Kinesthetic Learners, are hand-on learners. They learn best when

they are able to physically participate directly in what they are required to learn or understand. Tactile learners

usually excel when they are able to handle something in order to learn about it. Tactile learners may do especial

well in classes where lab work is required. Unlike Visual Learners that learn by seeing and Auditory Learners that

learn by hearing, Tactile Learners learn by touching and feeling.

So why is identifying and understanding your learning style so critical to your study preparation? By knowing howyou learn best you can select those classes, teachers, subjects, majors and ultimate careers that appeal to your

unique way of learning things.

Logical StyleIf you find that you like using your brain for logical and mathematical reasoning you probably prefer the logical

learning style. Logical learners can recognize patterns easily and are good at making logical connections betwee

what would appear to most people to be meaningless content. If you're a logical learner you'll learn better if you

classify and group information to help you learn and understand it better.

Social StyleIf social learning is your style, you'll communicate well with others, both verbally and non-verbally. You're good

listeners and are able to understand other's views. People listen to you and come to you for advice. Social learne

prefer learning in groups or classes and typically like to spend one-on-one time with a teacher or an instructor.

Solitary StyleIf you have a solitary style of learning you tend to be private, introspective and/or independent. You're able to

concentrate and focus on a specific subject, topic or concept without outside help. You are very self aware and

able to analyze the different ways you think and feel. Solitary learners prefer to work on problems by retreating

somewhere quiet and working through possible solutions by themselves. However, solitary learners need to be


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careful as they may spend too much time trying to solve a problem that they could more easily solve by talking to

someone or working with a group.

Identifying the learning style and preferences that best suits you is an important part of developing effective

studying.

8.A Strategy forReadingTextbooks

Below is a simple method that will help you read textbooks more effectively.

P = Preview what you are going to read.

Q= Question what you are going to learn after the preview.

R3 = Read, Recite, and Review.

P = Previewwhat you aregoing toread

y Form an impression about the subjects and concepts you'll be reading about.y Look over carefully what you are going to read paying attention to main ideas, subjects and headings --

don't focus on the details.

Q = Question

y Form a question in your mind about what you are about to read and learn.y Practice on this page -- form a question like "What are the main reasons the roman empire fell?"

R = Read, Recite, and Review

y Read - Read the assignment.y Recite - Stop every so often, look up from the book, and put in your own words what you have just read.

o Practice on this page - "R" stands for read, recite, and review.y Review - After you have finished, review the main points.

o Practice on this page - "I did learn a system to improve my reading comprehension. The mainparts are ...."

After you complete the review step, don't forget to go back and reread any section that you are not sure of. If yo

practice this method, your study time is going to be much more productive!

9. ImprovingReadingComprehension

Many students dont realize how important it is to be able to fully comprehend what you read. Being able to

completely and accurately comprehend what you read is essential to your ability to learn, perform well on tests

and ultimately succeed in college and in a career. This section introduces a few strategies and tips to improve yo

reading comprehension.

Pre-readingsurvey

A pre-reading survey will help you quickly develop a basic understanding of the content as well as the structure

the material. Pre-reading will enable you to create a mental map of the material which will make your actual

reading much more efficient and effective. First, read the table of contents and the introduction (if there is one.)

Now quickly peruse the material, reading only chapter titles, section headings and bold print. At this point don't

try to remember anything specific, you're just trying to get a general impression.


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to create vivid mental pictures that represent the concept or term. When you employ pictures to learn

verbal and written information you are encoding the information in your memory system in two ways

instead of just one. Consequently, your ability to remember the information is greatly enhanced.

y Active StudyingYou cannot passively study material and expect to remember it. Remembering material requires active

studying. The best way to ensure active studying is to think about the information you're learning by

explaining it out loud to yourself or other people in your own words. Another way to actively study and

improve your memory is to think critically about the material you're studying by comparing and

contrasting, asking "how" and "why", determining its significance, etc. Active studying will improve

comprehension and enhance retention of the material study.

y Frequent ReviewingThe way to remember information is by frequently reviewing the information. You should review class

notes after each lecture and reading assignment. Review your notes and highlight key points. As you

review your notes you can also make additional notes in the left hand margin that indicate important

information including vocabulary terms, major concepts and possible questions that would appear on an

exam. After reading text book assignments you should go back and reread chapter headings and sectionsubheadings. Review the portions of the text that you highlighted or marked. By reviewing frequently

you'll greatly improve your ability to remember information both in the short term and long term.

y Mnemonic devicesMnemonic devices are memory tricks that can be used to remember factual information such as a list of

words or phrases, and they often produce a visual image in the learner's mind. Some common mnemoni

devices include acronyms (the most common), nonsense words, nonsense sentences, and rhymes.

Creating an acronym is a good strategy to use to remember information in any order. An acronym is a

word that is formed from the first letter of each fact to be remembered. It can be a real word or a

nonsense word you are able to pronounce. For example, MADD is an acronym for Mothers Against Drun

Drivers.

11. Strategies forBuilding VocabularyNot only do people judge you based on the words you choose to express yourself but your ability to effectively

use words can affect every aspect of your life. Developing a good vocabulary will help ensure that you reach you

full potential in your career, education, relationships and life in general. It is crucial to start building your

vocabulary as early as possible.

The following are a few proven strategies for improving your vocabulary.

y RegularReadingIf you want to improve your vocabulary then you need to become an avid reader. Most vocabulary is

learned by reading textbooks, novels and other literature. The more you read, the faster you will build

your vocabulary. Try reading on different topics, with different reading materials. However, there is a vit

strategy to reading in order to build your vocabulary. Even if you read everything in your local library, yo

vocabulary will not increase a lot if you do not use the correct reading strategy.

The key to building your vocabulary through reading is to figure out the meaning of the difficult words


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that you encounter. To discover their meaning you can look them up in a dictionary. However, much of

the vocabulary youll learn in life wont come from reading the dictionary. Often youll figure out what

these words mean by how they are used in the text you are reading. Most literature includes context

clues to the meanings of words that some readers may not know. The context clue is most often

presented in the sentence or paragraph where the word is located.

y Make it PersonalMaking words personally meaningful will make them stand out, and you will be able to remember bette

There are several ways to add personal meaning to words, and all of them will effectively contribute to

enhancing your vocabulary. One of the easiest ways to make a word personally meaningful is by

association with familiar things, people, or events. Another way to make a vocabulary word personal is t

use rhymes or other kinds of word play to help you enhance your word retention. There are a variety of

ways to add personal relevance to a word -- you just need to be creative.

y EmployWord GamesBelieve it or not word games can be just as effective at building vocabulary as other strategies -- if not

more effective. Word games not only teach you new words, but they are fun and consequently you're

likely to spend more time and expend more effort building your vocabulary.

The following websites provide some great word games that will help you improve your vocabulary.

o Shockwave - http://www.shockwave.com/wordgames.jspo Gamehouse http://www.gamehouse.como Yahoo! Games http://games.yahoo.como Terragame http://www.terragame.com/downloadable/word/index_1_sort2.html

y Word RepetitionWord repetition is a useful tool for building vocabulary. If you really want to build you vocabulary you

should repeat words several times a day, every day, to keep the words in your memory. Write them dow

on a notepad if you need to and read the words to yourself frequently. Each time you read a word analy

its meaning and use it in a sentence. Focusing on the meaning will help you remember the word next tim

it is needed.

12.WritingaResearch Paper: Step-by-Step Procedures

There are a number of criteria that must be met in order to write a good research paper. The following steps wil

help you develop and write a high quality research paper.

The Preliminaries

1. Select a topic2. Begin preliminary reading3. Restrict the subject4. Develop a preliminary thesis statement

Gathering Data

1. Compile the working bibliography2. Prepare the bibliography on cards in correct form (3" x 5" cards)3. Begin extensive work in the library reference room; be sure to check:

a. general bibliographiesb. trade bibliographies


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c. indexes (books and collections, literature in periodicals, newspaper indexes,pamphlet indexes)

d. library electronic catalogueTaking Notes

1. Develop a preliminary outline2. Evaluate your source material; which is primary material and which is secondary material3. Begin note-taking on cards (4" x 6" cards)4. Avoid plagiarism

Writing the Paper

1. Develop the final outline; test your outline2. Prepare to write:

a. put your note cards in the order that your outline is inb. consider your (real and imagined) readers and how their expectations may affect

your tone and style

3. Write the rough draft4. Check your documentation carefully5. Revise and rewrite6. Check the format of the text, citations, notes, and bibliography (most instructors

recommend MLA or APA format)

7. Proofread

B. Test Taking Study SkillsGuide1.Test Taking Strategies

Different kinds of tests require different kinds of test-taking strategies. This study guide will provide you with

some helpful approaches for taking a variety of different tests.

GENERAL TESTTAKINGGUIDELINES

1.Be prepared.

y Concentrated hours of effective study to force facts into your memory is the best way to prepare for anytest.

y However, teachers often try to test your memory of the material by slightly altering it. In this case,practice and some test-taking skill will help.

2.Alwaysarriveearly and takea moment torelax.

y This brief time period will boost your confidencey Use this time to focus your mind and think positive thoughts.

3. Listenattentively tolast minute instructionsgivenby the instructor.

y Teachers often make last minute changes.y Missing instruction causes extreme anxiety.


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4.Read the test directionsvery carefully and watch for details.

y You may find that more than one answer may be possible on multiple choice.y A key detail may require only three out of the five essay questions.

5. Plan how you will use theallotted time.

y Estimate how many minutes you will need to finish each test section.y Determine a pace which will ensure completing the whole test on time.y Start with the easiest section to build your confidence.

6.Maintaina positiveattitude.

y Don't let more difficult questions raise your anxiety and steal your valuable time. Move on and findsuccess with other questions.

y If you are not penalized for wrong answers, guess and move on.y Avoid watching for patterns. Noticing that the last four answers are "c" is not a good reason to stop, go

back, and break concentration.

7.Rely on your first impressions.

y The answer which comes to mind first is often correct.y Nervously reviewing questions and changing answers can do more harm than good.

8. Plan to finish early and have time forreview.

y Return to difficult questions you marked for review.y Proofread your essays and pay attention to grammar and spelling.y Make sure you answered all questions. Students often fail to notice questions on the back side of the

paper.

9.Considerevery test a practicesession-analyze your performance.

y Test taking is an art which needs refinement. One can not refine the art without practice and seriousevaluation.

y Go through each test thoroughly and see if your plan worked.y Look at each section to identify your fault patterns. Do you need to work on true/false, multiple choice,

essay?

y Talk to teachers regarding low scores, especially on essays.

2.MultipleChoiceTest TakingTips

Multiple-choice tests are one of the most common testing formats for classroom tests, competency tests and fo

entrance exams to college. Learning a few tips for taking multiple-choice tests can go a long way towards helping

you do well in both college and a career.

y Read the multiple choice question before you look through the answers.y Develop an answer for the question in your head before looking at answers presented, this way the

choices given on the test won't trick you or influence your thought process.

y Before figuring out which answer you believe is correct eliminate the answers you know aren't correct.y Read all the answer choices before choosing your final answer.


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y If there isn't a penalty for guessing, always take an educated guess and select the answer you feel is moscorrect.

y Usually your first choice is the right one, unless you misread the question. Don't keep changing youranswers once you've made an educated decision

y In "All of the above" and "None of the above" choices, if you are certain one of the statements is falsedon't choose "All of the Above" or one of the statements is true don't choose "None of the above".

y In a question with an "All of the above" choice, if you are certain that at least two correct statements,then "All of the above" is most likely the correct answer.

y A positive choice is more likely to be true than a negative one.y Usually the correct answer is the choice with the most information. However, this isn't always the case.

But if you have to guess we recommend selecting the choice with the most information.

3.GeneralTest PreparationTips

The following tips will help you better prepare for tests and improve test performance.

y The sooner you start preparing for your first test the better you'll perform. You should begin preparationfor your first test after the first day of class; this includes studying regularly, completing all your

homework and reviewing study materials regularly.

y Manage your time effectively. Make sure you allocate enough time to study so that you're well preparedwhen your test time comes.

y Make sure to attend all review sessions and pay close attention to hints that the instructor may providefor the test. Take detailed notes and ask questions about concepts and topics that you don't completelyunderstand. Don't be embarrassed to ask questions.

y You should ask your instructor to identify those areas of study that will be emphasized on the test.y Arrive at class early the day of the test; this is a great time for your instructor to give some last minute

hints, guidance or instruction that will help you perform better on the test.

y Before each test make sure to review all material from practice test, home work assignments, textbookreadings, review material, lecture notes, etc.

y Being in good physical and mental condition is important to effective test preparation. Make sure to eatbefore taking a test -- you need the energy to help you focus. Don't eat junk food that will make you

groggy.

y Make sure to get at least 4 hours of sleep before you take any test. Don't pull an all nighters. While thismay seem like a good idea you'll show up to your test tired and unfocused.

y Outline the main ideas, concepts, and information onto a sheet that can be easily reviewed many times.This will make it easy to remember key concepts as well as the information related to each concept.


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y Visit the restroom before you start your test. You don't want to waste valuable test time using thebathroom during the test. This is especially important if you're taking a timed test.

4. Essay Test Preparation

The following tips will help you better prepare for essay tests and improve essay test performance.

y The first thing you need to do when answering an essay question or test is to read the directions carefulDon't assume you know what the answer is until you've carefully read the directions. Sometime an essay

test will only require you answer a portion of the essays (i.e. "Answer 4 of the 6 essays").

y Read the entire essay question and make sure you understand what its requesting you to answer. Ifyou're unsure what the questions is asking make sure to have your instructor explain it to you.

y Answer the essay question as completely as you can. Typically the more details, facts and explanation yoprovide for each essay question the higher your grade is going to be.

y Make sure to budget your time efficiently. Don't spend all of your time on just one hard essay question.Make sure to allocate your time so that you can answer all of the questions. If you have extra time once

you've answered all the questions go back and spend more time on those questions that are worth more

points or that you can provide additional information.

y If an essay question is requesting facts, make sure that you provide only facts. Don't provide yourpersonal opinion when the question specifically asks for facts.

y When writing your essays make sure to be as clear and concise as possible. Sometimes its better to beshort and to the point than to provide a lot of useless and irrelevant information. Its okay to provide a lo

of information -- just make sure its relevant.

y Keep your essays as neat and easy to read as possible. The neater your paper the higher your grade willlikely be.

y Before you write your essay prepare an outline. An outline will help ensure that your essay is organized,easy to understand and complete. Also, many instructors will provide partial credit for putting together a

good outline even if you don't have time to complete the essay.

y Make sure to focus your essay on answering the question asked. Don't spend too much time writing anintroduction and conclusion. While these are both important they will not usually make up for an essay

that is lacking quality information and analysis.

yMake sure to develop a new paragraph for each main idea you want to address.

y If you get done early reread your essay answers to make sure they're correct.y One of the biggest mistakes people make when answering essay questions is that they don't budget thei

time effectively. Before you start answering any one essay question make sure you count how many essa

questions you must answer, how much each essay is worth and how long you have to answer each

question. Make sure to spend only the allocated time per essay until you've answered all the essay

questions. If you get done with your test early you can go back and complete any underdeveloped essay


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y If you don't know the exact date or number to include in an essay answer than approximate.5.True/FalseTest PreparationTips

The following true and false test preparation tips will help you improve your performance on true/false tests.

y There are usually more true answers than false answers on a true and false test. So if you're going toguess -- guess "true".

y If there is no penalty for guessing, then guess. You have a fifty fifty change of getting the answer correct.y Make sure to read the entire question carefully. Pay attention to keywords and qualifiers that may

indicate whether the answer is true or false.

y Qualifiers include words like "never", "always" and "every". When a question includes one of thesequalifiers the statement being proposed in the question must always be true -- which typically means th

answer if false.

y Other qualifiers include words such as "usually", "generally" and "sometimes. When a question includesone of these qualifiers the statement being proposed may be true or false depending on the

circumstances. More often than not these qualifiers mean the answer is true.

y Often a statement may be partially true but not entirely true. Just because part of statement is truedoesn't mean that the answer is true. If any part of the question is false, then the entire statement must

be false -- even if there is some truth in the statement.

6.OralTest PreparationTips

The following tips will help you better prepare for oral tests and improve oral test performance.

y Make sure to prepare for your oral exam as you would for any other exam. There is no better preparatiothan preparation itself. Learn everything there is to know about the test material. Try to think of all the

questions your instructor might ask and be prepared to answer them.

y Confirm the time and place of your oral exam and make sure to arrive a few minutes early. Arriving latecan have a negative effect on your performance and your grade.

y Find out what topics you'll be tested on and if you are allowed to bring any props, visual aids, and howyou should dress. If you decide to use visual aids make sure not to rely on them entirely. Visual aids are

intended to support what you say and should not be used as replacements.

y Use your voice effectively. Ever listened to someone speaking monotone? Its not fun. Make sure to varythe tone of your voice. Speak clearly, at a normal pace and never speak to quickly.

y Create practice questions. Based on the subject matter covered during your class try to anticipate whatquestions might be asked on the exam and prepare answer for the questions. Then practice answering t

questions with someone from your class who is also familiar with the material.


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y If you're using a computer, overhead projector or other equipment for your exam, make sure to test itseveral times to ensure its functioning the way you want it to.

y Practice talking and answering your exam questions in front of a mirror so that you evaluate your bodylanguage. You may also consider recording your answers and then playing them back to see how you

sound.

y Make sure to dress appropriately. Showing up unkempt and messy can adversely affect your presentatioand your grade.

y Pay close attention to each question asked. If you don't completely understand a question, ask yourteacher or instructor for clarification or to repeat the question. You don't want to answer a question unt

you're certain you understand the question.

y Speak clearly and in complete sentences. Don't give one or two word answers.y Be polite. When you're done with your exam, be sure to thank your instructor for his or her time.

7. Short AnswerTest PreparationTips

The following tips will help you better prepare for short answer tests and improve your test performance.

y Preparation is the key to success on short answer tests. Pay attention to the themes, topics and contentmatter emphasized by your instructor during class or lectures as this is likely to be on a short answer test

y Try to anticipate what questions will be asked on the test and put together a set of practice questions yocan use to prepare yourself for the actual test.

y Using flashcards is an effective way to prepare for short answer tests. Write key terms, dates andconcepts on the front of each card and the definition, event and explanation on the back.

y You rarely get penalized for trying to answer a question on short answer test -- even if you don't exactlyknow the answer. Try to answer all the questions even if you're not certain about your answer. Make su

to show your work, share your thoughts, and jot down any relevant facts or information.

y If you come across a question and you don't know the answer to skip it and come back to it later. Otherquestions on the test may provide you clues to what the correct answer may be.

y Some short answers may have more than one answer. Make sure to reach each question carefully tomake sure you provide everything in your answer that the question is asking for.

8. Quantitative/Math Test PreparationTips

The following quantitative test preparation tips will help you better prepare for math tests.

y Practice makes perfect -- and that is especially true about math. If you want to succeed in math repetitiois the key. Learn how to recognize when and why you should use a specific method to solve a math

problem and then keep on practicing.


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y Make sure to work on practice math problems for each topic -- ranging in levels of difficulty.y Always try to figure out Practice Problems by yourself first. Only refer to the answers if you're unable to

figure out the problem or for checking your work.

y Practice a variety of different questions in a different order when you're reviewing so you'll learn when tuse a specific methods or formula.

y Create a study sheet with all of the formulas and methods you need to know and memorize them.y One of the test taking strategies is to write down all of the important formulas and equations in the

margin as soon as the test is received. If you quickly write down all of the key formulas in the margin as

soon as you receive your test you'll be able to refer back to the formulas during the test and you'll be su

that you don't forget them.

y As with any test, make sure to read all of the directions before answering each question. Many questionmay have multiple parts so make sure to answer each part of each question.

y When you are able, estimate the answer to each question before figuring out the correct answer. Forexample, if you are asked to provide and answer for 108 / 11 =?. You can expect your answer should be

around 10. So if you end up with answer such as 30, you'll know your answer probably isn't correct.

y On math tests it is especially important that you show all your work. For many professors and teachershow you arrive at your answer is often just as important as the answer itself. Providing your work will

show your thought process and will often get you partial credit if you have the wrong answer.

y If you aren't sure what the right answer is, try to figure it out anyway -- and show your work. Don't give uand don't erase your answer. Write down everything you think is relevant because you may get partial

credit.

y If you have extra time after finishing test, make sure to go back and check all your answers. One of thebest ways to check your answer is to redo each math problem on a separate sheet of paper. Redoing eac

problem and comparing your answers will help you determine if you answered each problem correctly th

first time. If your new answer to a question doesn't match your first answer, then reread the directions

carefully to make sure you understand the question, check to make sure you copied all the numbers

correctly and verify that your arithmetic is correct.

9.Openbook Test PreparationTips

The following open-book test preparation tips will help you better prepare for open book tests.

y A lot of students think that just because a test is open book that they don't need to prepare as much asthey would for a closed book test. This couldn't be further from the truth. Believe it or not, open book

exams are typically more difficult than closed book exams. You should spend as much time, if not more

time, preparing for open book tests as you would for closed book tests.

y A big mistake that students make is to assume that since a test is open book they don't need to becomereally familiar with test material and topics before the test. They think that they'll just look up the answe

in their book if they can't produce it from memory. Most open book tests are longer and more involved


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than closed book tests and consequently time is of the essence. If you have to look up the answer to eac

question in your book you'll never get done with your test in the time allotted. Make sure you are

intimately familiar with the book, relevant materials as well as the subject matter before you take an

open book test.

y As with a math test, write down all important dates, formulas and key information on a separate sheet opaper or in the margin of your test so that you don't have to search through your book for these items.

Again, if you rely 100% on your book to figure out and answer of each test question there is a very high

likelihood that you won't have time to finish the test.

y When preparing for an open book test focus on familiarizing yourself with the main ideas and conceptscovered in your class AND make sure you know where each is located in your book. At first, don't get too

caught up in learning all the details -- you can do this later.

y If you're allowed to write in your book then make sure to: (1) mark the pages in your book where majorconcepts and ideas are addressed, (2) highly important points in each major section so that you can find

them again easily during your test, (3) make notes in your book that will help you to recall information

and concepts during your test and (4) use post-it notes to help book mark important pages andinformation.

y A very useful strategy for taking open book tests is to answer all the questions you know the answer tofirst. Once you've answered all the questions you know the answer to, go back and start answering the

questions that require you to look in your book. This will ensure that you're able to complete as many

questions as possible before the test is over.

y It is a common tendency for students taking an open book test to take information directly from the booand put it on the test. Remember, your teacher or instructor wants to see what you've learned and test

your understanding of the subject matter covered during the course. You can use quotations and

information from the book to support your views but make sure that your answers include your own

personal insight, analysis and commentary.

10.ACTTest Taking Strategies

The ACT is one of the most popular standardized college admissions tests. The ACT covers four subjects: English,

Mathematics, Reading Comprehension and Science.

GeneralTips

y Go through the test; answer all the easy questions first. Then go back through the test and answer therest of the questions

yLimit the time you spend on each question to one or two minutes. If you spend more time than this youwon't finish the test

y Make sure to pace yourself. Keep track of how much time remains after each question or section.y As there is no penalty for writing in your test booklet so go ahead and write in it if it helps.y Use the process of elimination to identify the correct answer for each questiony Make sure to answer every question -- even if you have to guess. There is no penalty for guessing.

English SectionTips


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y Evaluate the writing style employed for each question. The correct answer will likely be that which bestworks with the writing style of the question

y Evaluate and analyze each answer choice to determine how each choice is different from the others.y When "No change" is an answer choice, select it only if all the other answer choices are incorrect.y When a question is asked about text that is underlined, figure out how the underlined text relates to the

rest of the section

y After you've completed a question go back and reread the underlined text and compare it with youranswer to make sure your answer is correct.

Reading SectionTips

y BEFORE YOU READ THE QUESTIONS, read the passage carefully. Don't get lost in the details; just try tomake sure you understand the main ideas being addressed.

y As you read try to indentify how the main ideas in the passage relate to one another.y As you look for the answer to each question refer back to the passage.

Mathematics SectionTips

y Always work out the answer to each math problem before you look at the possible answers. Once you'vecome up with answer, choose the answer choice that matches yours. If none of the answer choices matc

your answer then redo the math problem until you come up with the correct answer.

y While using a calculator may seem advantageous, it isn't always. If you can compute an answer withoutusing a calculator then do so.

y If you can estimate the answer then do so. If the answer you compute is very different from yourestimation then there's a good chance your answer is incorrect.

y Always check your work to make sure your calculations are correct. Its difficult to get the right answer ifyour computations are incorrect.

Science SectionTips

y Don't let yourself be fooled by irrelevant information. As you're reading, cross out all irrelevantinformation.

y Many students will get caught up with the technical terminology presented in a passage or question.Whether or not you understand the technical terminology presented does not have to affect your ability

to select the correct answer. Just remember, technical Science passages are typically more complex than

passages provided in other sections of an ACT test. It may be helpful to take some notes while you're

reading the passage.

y Terms very rarely have anything to do with the correct answer choice.y Pay special attention to conflicting viewpoints in a science passage. Understanding each viewpoint may

help you determine the correct answer.

Writing SectionTips

y When constructing your answer for the writing section, employ a five-paragraph essay format. Your essashould include an introduction, supporting paragraphs and a conclusion.

y Don't start writing your response until after you've outlined it.y Make sure that your essay stays on topic.y Try to be specific and use examples where appropriate to support your response.y Make sure that you use good penmanship. Writing illegibly could affect how your answer is scored.y If time permits, check to make sure you're using correct punctuation, spelling and grammar.

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