1. Multiple Choice Testing Tips

    A. Don't leave questions unanswered. 

                -Therefore, if you are not sure of the answer, eliminate the multiple choice answers you know are incorrect, then                     make an educated guess as to which of the remaining choices is the correct answer.

                -If time is about to run out, don't leave any answers blank - guess.

    B.  Know the test directions. For every five minutes you spend reading directions, you'll have five fewer minutes available to answer questions. Learn the directions now.

    C. Read the questions carefully - be alert for NOT, LEAST, or EXCEPT

    D. Use your test book to do scratchwork to cross off answers you know are wrong and to mark questions you "guessed" so that you can go back and review it if you have time at the end of the test. Be sure to mark your answers on the separate answer sheet, because you won't receive credit for any answers you marked in the test book.

    E. Don't panic if you can't answer every question.You don't have to answer every question correctly to get a good score.

   F. Come prepared; arrive early for tests   Bring all the materials you will need such as pencils and pens, a calculator, a dictionary, and a watch.   This will help you focus on the task at hand

    G. Stay relaxed and confident   Remind yourself that you are well-prepared and are going to do well.
Don't let yourself become anxious; if you feel anxious before or during a test, take several slow, deep breaths to relax
Don't talk to other students before a test; anxiety is contagious

   H.  Be comfortable but alert - Choose a good spot to take the test. Wear a sweatshirt that can be removed if the room is not at a comfortable temperature.  Make sure you have enough room to work. Maintain an upright posture in your seat.  Request a left-handed desk if you are left-handed

• Get a good night's sleep.
• Eat a wholesome breakfast.
• Dress comfortably

    I.  Read the each question twice!  Make sure you understand what is being asked before you move to the possible answers.

    J.  Carefully examine any diagrams, graphs, or tables.  Many questions expect you to be able to apply  what graphs and tables contain.

Some more tips (from http://www.regis.edu/spstesting/tips.htm)

Ø Set up a mental schedule for progressing through a timed test.  For example, make a mental note to check whether you're one-third finished when a third of your time is gone.
Ø Don't waste time pondering difficult questions.  If you have no idea, make your guess (see #1), mark that question on your test booklet as having been a guess and move on.  Then, return to the question later, if time allows.
Ø Don't "read into" questions.  Often simple-looking questions are just what they appear to be.  Don't make the question much more complex than it is intended to be.
Ø As you read the stem of each multiple-choice question, try to anticipate the answer before looking at the options.    If your answer is among the choices, it is likely to be correct.
Ø Always read the question carefully and completely.  There may be a better option down the list.
Ø Learn how to quickly eliminate options that are implausible.  Discard these answers fast.
Ø Understand that information relevant to one question is sometimes given away in another test question.  In contrast, options that carefully qualify statements tend to be correct.
Ø Note words like not, but, except.  You might try rephrasing the questions.
Ø Think vocabulary.  Study specific terms, facts, names and key words; become proficient in the language of the subject matter.   Flashcards may help.

v TIPS ON DEALING WITH TEST-TAKING ANXIETY    v

Ø Try to get into a "fighting" attitude and "attack" the questions.  Start with the easy questions to build confidence.   It is also often recommended that students do not talk with other test takers because anxiety can be contagious.  Catch your breath before starting the exam.   Remember that test-taking skills are acquired gradually and test-taking gets easier with practice.  Be patient with yourself.  GOOD LUCK!

2.  Essay Writing Testing Tips

a.  Brainstorm - find a place on the test booklet (or scrap paper) and write down all your thoughts about the topic.

b.  Organize - take brainstormed ideas and do the following (could be done in outline form on scrap paper prior to writing):

    1. Write a topic paragraph - get the reader's attention and orient the reader to the topic.  Clearly state the main idea

    2.  Topic sentences - each paragraph should begin with a sentences stating the theme of the paragraph.  All sentences in the rest of the paragraph must support that topic sentence.

    3.  Details - provide facts (illustrations, common knowledge) that supports your topic sentences

    4.  Proof Read - correct the grammar, punctuation, and spelling.

    5.  Conclusion - summarize main points

c. Go http://www.ets.org/Media/Tests/PRAXIS/pdf/0720.pdf to view ETS's specific test requirements and examples of good essays