Tests are a significant part of high school life, and even in schools that prioritize project-based and experiential learning such as Keystone School, most courses will have at least quizzes, if not tests and exams, as a part of the curriculum. While they can be stressful, developing effective test-taking strategies can improve your performance, and now is the time to start thinking about what strategies you can employ as the start of the school year is right around the corner. This blog post explores practical tips for high school students to prepare for and excel in test-taking.
Before the Test
- Organize Your Study Space
Ensure your study area is quiet, well-lit, and free from distractions, as we recommended in our previous blog post, with all necessary materials, such as textbooks, notes, and stationery, within reach. If you read our previous blog post, you may even feel inspired to carve out and decorate your study place in a way that will calm, soothe and inspire you.
- Create a Study Schedule
Similar to the weekly and daily schedules we discussed in our last blog post, create a test-specific study schedule that breaks down your study material into manageable chunks and allocates specific times for review of each one. A study schedule helps you cover all topics systematically without cramming everything in at the last minute.
- Use Active Study Techniques
Effective studying involves actively engaging with the material rather than passively reading or memorizing it. Techniques such as summarizing information, creating flashcards, and teaching concepts to someone else can enhance understanding and retention, and embed the content deeper in your mind.
- Practice with Past Tests
If possible, ask your teacher or students in older grades for access to past tests. These will familiarize you with the format and types of questions you might encounter. Also try timing yourself while writing the practice test to improve your time management skills for during the actual test.
During the Test
- Read Instructions Carefully
At the beginning of the test, take a few minutes to read the instructions thoroughly and take note of the number of questions and any specific guidelines. Ask any questions about the instructions before commencing.
- Manage Your Time
Time management is crucial during a test, so as you are skimming through the entire test, assess the requirements of each type of question and allocate your time accordingly. Start with the questions you find easiest to build confidence and ensure you secure those easy marks.
- Answer Strategically
Each type of question will require a different strategy to effectively answer. For example, when answering multiple-choice questions, eliminate obviously incorrect answers first. This increases your chances of choosing the correct answer from the remaining options. For essay questions, outline your main points before you start writing to ensure you cover all the required points.
- Stay Calm
Test anxiety can hinder performance, so make use of the mindfulness techniques we discussed in our previous blog post and practice deep breathing to stay calm. If you encounter a difficult question, move on and return to it later without allowing doubt or negative thoughts to creep in. Keeping a positive mindset and focusing on the task at hand is essential!
- Review Your Answers
If time permits, review your answers before submitting the test. Check for any skipped questions and try to answer them, as well as ensure that you have followed all instructions.
After the Test
- Reflect
After the test, take some time to reflect on your performance, and determine if your strategies were helpful or need to be replaced. This reflection can guide your preparation for future tests.
- Seek Feedback
When you receive your test back, review it with your teacher. Understanding the reasons behind any mistakes will help you avoid making the same ones in the future. You can also form a study group with your friends and classmates to review the test together, compare answers, and determine strategies for preparing for the next assessment.
- Stay Positive
Regardless of the outcome, maintain a positive attitude. A single test does not define your overall abilities or future success. Use each test as a learning experience to grow and develop better strategies.
Excelling in test-taking requires a combination of effective preparation and continuous improvement. Remember, each test is an opportunity to grow and develop your skills, so stay positive, stay motivated, and approach each test with confidence.
Start Today
After reading this blog post, take some time to sit down and think about tests you’ve written in the past and what any sources of anxiety were for you. Look at the tips above, and pinpoint 3 that you will use based on your previous experiences taking tests in each subject. Good luck!
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