Page 54 - Irvine Valley College Student Planner 2022-2023

STEP 2: Strategically Answer Test Questions
Preview the test and note the different types of questions that are on the exam. Spend the most time on the portion of the test that has the most points.
• True /False questions—There is a 50 percent chance of being right so always answer. Watch out for the wording on a true and false test. If you do not know the answer then use educated guessing.
o Guess false if wording contains 100% absolute modifiers such as always, never, and must.
o Guess true if there are conditional words such as sometimes, often, and generally.
o Read the entire question. If one part of a statement is true and the other is false, then the answer is false.
• Multiple choice—Always try to answer the question first in your head. Be sure to read ALL the answers. Some answers may be partially correct so you are choosing the MOST correct item.
o Choose “all the above” if every answer looks correct.
o Cross off answers that seem humorous or contain 100%
absolute modifiers such as always, never, and must. o Choose between two similar items.
• Essay Questions—Usually essay questions carry the most points on an exam. Teachers usually give points for details and question with the most in-depth answers.
o Pay attention to the directional word in the question such as define, compare, contrast, evaluate and summarize.
o Make sure your essay has a thesis sentence and is organized. o Pay attention to details within the essay which usually increase
the points.
• Matching—Read the directions
o Sometimes items can be used only once and other times items may be used twice.
o Read from the short list first.
STEP 3: Combat Test Anxiety
Many students feel anxiety about taking tests because of the importance they place on that exam in determining their future.
Set realistic expectations.
Use positive self-talk to lower test anxiety.
Don’t get stuck on one question. Use the test to assist in your responses.
Get instructors’ feedback afterwards to see how you can continuously improve.
Get help. One-on-one free tutoring is available in the Student Success Center.
See a counselor if you need additional services.
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