For short-answer exams

· Budget your time-Estimate how much time you have to answer each question. If some questions are worth more points than others, plan to spend more time answering them.

· Do easiest questions first- Don’t dwell on any particular question. You may come up with the answer as you work on a different question.

· Answer each question- Write what you do know even if you don’t know the complete answer. (Writing may spark your memory.)

· Use the full time allowed- Never leave early. Review your answers, make corrections, add more information, etc.

For essay exams

· Read all questions first- Underline key words, such as “discuss,” “explain,” and “compare.” Then jot down your initial thoughts.

· Start with the easiest question- Organize your thoughts into a simple outline. Draft your answer, leaving space between lines and in the margin for corrections and rewrites.

· Be realistic- Answers should be logical and clear, but they don’t have to be literary masterpieces! Use short, simple sentences to make your points.

· Answer more difficult questions last- Use the same technique. When you’re finished, go back and add more details, illustrations, etc., and correct any errors. Make changes as neatly as possible.

Objective exams

(Multiple choice, matching, etc.)

· Solve in the order given- Answers to previous questions may help you to answer questions later in the exam. But, don’t get hung up on the tough questions. Leave them and move on. (Circle the ones you “skip.”) Return if time permits.

· Read each choice carefully- Beware of words like “often,” “sometimes,” and “always.” Select the answer that’s most correct. ( Even wrong answers may be partially true.)

· Think as you read- Multiple-choice questions can be tricky. Be sure you understand what’s being asked.

· Finish the exam- Then go back to any questions you skipped, and use all the time allowed. Narrow down the choices as best you can, then make an educated guess.

Standardized exams

(SATs, GREs, etc.)

· Get a guide- Study aids are available for most standardized tests. To help reduce anxiety, begin to prepare well before the test date. Answer the sample questions. Identify your weaknesses and work to improve those areas. (Take a preparation course, too, if one is available.)

· Be realistic- There will be questions you can’t answer. Don’t worry about them. Circle them and return if you have time.

· Make an educated guess- A fraction of a point is usually deducted for each wrong answer- but it still pays to guess when you can eliminate one or more of the choices