Testing Tips

There are also some things to keep in mind when you are TAKING the test.

1. Get to the test site early so you can select a seat, organize your materials, and get relaxed. Be prepared with pencils, paper, calculator, books (if appropriate), etc.
2. Survey the entire test before you answer any questions. This will help you to get an overview of what's expected and to strategize how you will take the test.
3. Take a few deep breaths and to relax tense muscles. Repeat throughout the test. This process will help you to stay relaxed and to make more energy available for remembering, thinking, and writing.
4. Read directions carefully. Ask questions if you don't understand or need clarification.
5. Do a quick "mind dump" of information you don't want to forget. Write it down on scrap paper or in the margin.
6. Answer the easiest questions first, to help yourself calm down. Matching questions are often good to start with because they provide a reminder of important terms and definitions.
7. Use good strategies for answering multiple choice and other objective questions.
   • Look for the central idea of each question. What is the main point?
   • Statements that begin with always, never, none, except, most, or least-are probably NOT the answer . Underline these or other key words if you are allowed to write on the test paper.
   • Try to supply your own answer before choosing an alternative listed on the test.
   • Mark an answer for every question.
   • If you have to guess:
     • The length of choices can be a clue. Choose the longest.
     • If two choices are similar, choose neither.
     • If two choices are opposites, choose one of them.
     • The most general alternative is usually the right answer.
8. When answering essay questions, remember that the objective is to demonstrate how well you can explain and support an idea, not just what you know. Keep the following in mind:
   • Read over all the essay questions before you start to write. Underline key words like define, compare, explain, etc.
   • Think before you write. Remember, a good answer:
     • Starts with a direct response to the question.
     • Mentions the topics or areas described in the question.
     • Provides specific as well as general information.
     • Uses the technical vocabulary of the course.
   • Then map or outline the main points you want to make, determine the order in which you want to write your points, determine the support you want to add, then write.
   • Write legibly. Leave some space so you can add to your answer, later.
   • Proofread your essay. Check for grammar, punctuation, spelling, etc. This often adds points!
9. When problem solving, ask yourself:
   • What am I being asked to find?
   • What do I need to know in order to find the answer?
   • What information has been provided that will help me to find the answer?
   • How can I break the problem down into parts? What steps should I follow to solve the problem?
   • Does the answer make sense? Does it cover the whole problem?
10. Keep an eye on the clock. Make sure you'll have time to complete the test sections with the highest value, if not the entire test.

1. If the instructor reviews the exam in class, make sure you attend. Many students choose to skip class of the day of the review because "nothing is happening" that day. On the contrary, this is an important class to attend because it helps reinforce the information one more time in long term memory. Even if you aren't interested in the "learning" aspect of the class, it is an opportunity to hear what the instructor was looking for in the answers. This can help you on the NEXT exam.
2. When you receive your test paper, go over it to determine areas of strength and weakness in your test-taking skills. If you have done poorly, learn from your mistakes! Always analyze your tests to determine how you can improve future test results.

Keep in mind that there are things you can do before, during, and after exams that will help you succeed in the class.

• If there is a planned testing schedule made for your department (with dates, times, and locations), please forward it to the SSU eLearning Office.
• Let students know all of the directions for the test (timed, number of attempts, requires password). Give clear, specific directions and instructions. This can be done in the Description filed under Test Information when you edit the Test Options.
• Take a trial run of the test. Take the test where the students will, if you have reserved lab space.
• Encourage the students to use the Brightspace preferred browser for testing: Firefox.
• Require the students to use a hardwired connection when testing. No one should test using a wireless connection. Be especially mindful of this when having a large number of students test in the same room.
• Students should use Mobile only as a last resort.
• Encourage students to bring short Ethernet cords and plug into the ports at their seats if their laptops have spotty Wi-Fi. Be aware that an Ethernet cord gives the most reliable connection.
• Because students may still have access to other devices (cell phones, tablets, laptops, etc.), the testing environment is not as secure.