Test Taking Strategies

To enhance their test-taking abilities, the following test-specific strategies can be recommended based on the client’s weaknesses:

Before a Test

  • Start preparing for the exam early. As soon as possible after each class, spend 15 to 20 minutes reviewing and editing your notes.
  • Review the material step by step. Plan to study, work, and review for short periods of time. Give yourself small but challenging goals to accomplish.
  • Just before the test, concentrate on what you know, not what you do not know.
    • Avoid talking to peers about how much you studied, what you didn’t cover, etc.
    • Listen to music through headphones so that you can’t hear what others are saying around you.
    • Visualize your performance.
  • Encourage your client to arrive early.
  • Encourage your client to choose a quiet part of the room to write the exam if given the choice.
    • Additionally, encourage your client to consider where in the room they are best able to concentrate, whether that be at the back of the room, at the front, or on the perimeters.
  • Encourage your client to maintain a positive attitude when going into an exam.

During a Test

  • Encourage your client to make a conscious effort to relax and think positively about writing the exam.
  • Before you start writing the test, write out formulas, notes, and any other important information on a blank page.
  • Direct your client to pay attention to (i.e., circle or highlight) keywords and phrases within the instructions and questions.
  • Discuss and practice the concept of “budgeting time” within an exam or exercise. Discuss the advantages of checking over one’s answers prior to handing in an exam.
  • Survey the test before you start.
    • Note how many questions there are and how many pages there are.
    • How many points are assigned to each question or section?
    • Which questions look easier?
    • Do some easier questions while the more difficult ones are simmering in your mind.
  • Encourage your client to ignore the pace of others in the class.
  • If your client gets stuck, suggest they re-read the question and try to break it down into smaller units. Additionally, drawing a picture or diagram may be beneficial.
  • If you think of something, write it down. One or two words are all you will need to remember.
  • Write something for every question.
  • Some examiners give away answers in other parts of their tests.
    • Encourage your client to reflect on questions already answered as they work through their test and read new information and questions.
  • SCORER can help a child remember what strategies to use during a test:

SCORER
■ S– schedule your time.
■ C– clue words give you help.
■ O– omit the difficult questions.
■ R– read the directions carefully.
■ E– estimate your answers.
■ R– review your work.