Homework Helper: Study Skills

Updated February 21, 2017 | Factmonster Staff Updated by an Factmonster Editor on February 21, 2017

Study Skills

Ten Tips for Taking Tests

Read the instructions carefully. Never assume you will know what they will say! Ask the teacher if you are unsure about anything.
Read the entire test through before starting. Notice the point value of each section. This will help you to pace yourself.
Answer the easiest questions first, then the ones with the highest point value. You don't want to spend 20 minutes trying to figure out a two-point problem!
Keep busy! If you get stuck on a question, come back to it later. The answer might come to you while you are working on another part of the test.
If you aren't sure how to answer a question fully, try to answer at least part of it. You might get partial credit.
Need to guess on a multiple-choice test? First, eliminate the answers that you know are wrong. Then take a guess. Because your first guess is most likely to be correct, you shouldn't go back and change an answer later unless you are certain you were wrong.
On an essay test, take a moment to plan your writing. First, jot down the important points you want to make. Then number these points in the order you will cover them.
Keep it neat! If your teacher can't read your writing, you might lose points.
Don't waste time doing things for which you will not receive credit, such as rewriting test questions.
Leave time at the end to look over your work. Did you answer every question? Did you proofread for errors? It is easy to make careless mistakes while taking a test.

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