Specific Test Taking Strategies For Various Testing Formats

Multiple Choice Tests:

  • Read the directions carefully.

  • First try to answer each question on your own before looking at the answers.

  • Read all the choices before answering.

  • Underline key word and phrases in the question (break it down into smaller sections to understand the components of the question).

  • Pay attention to qualifiers such as only, except, never, all, none etc. and/or phrases (ie which of the following is not) . Qualifiers makes it easier to find an exception that makes a choice incorrect or correct .

  • Eliminate incorrect answers (those that are irrelevant to the question or doesn't stand on its own terms - i.e. an incorrect use of a term).

  • Consider all the choices given, including "one of the above" and "all of the above."

  • If two choices are similar, except for one or two words, consider choosing one of these answers.

  • If two choices have similar sounding or similar looking words, consider choosing one of these answers.

  • If two choices have similar meanings, consider choosing one of them.

  • If the question calls for a sentence completion, eliminate the answers that would not form a grammatically correct sentence.

  • If two quantities are almost the same, consider choosing one of them.

  • If answers cover a wide range, consider choosing one in the middle range.

  • When questions are keyed to a long reading passage, read the questions first - this will help you focus your reading on the information you need to answer the question.

  • Watch for statements of "which one is not true" or "which statement is not right", or "which statements best describes."

  • Choose the most correct answer.

  • If there is no penalty for guessing, and none of the above techniques works, close your eyes and go for it.

True and False Tests:

•  Answer quickly because they are usually not worth a lot of points.

•  If one part of the statement is false, than the entire statement is false.

•  Look for absolute qualifiers such as never, always, and sometimes; these can turn a statement that is generally true into a false statement, while more general terms such as "generally", "seldom", and "rarely" often indicate a correct response.

•  If you have no idea - pick true (professors generally select true information for you to remember and think about).

Essay Questions:

  • Read the directions and essay carefully before you begin - some essay question may contain more than one part.

  • Watch for action verbs (see the action verb section) and use them to guide your writing - answering the question correctly in the wrong format (action verb) is typically viewed as an incorrect answer.

  • Create a brief outline to help you remember important points and to keep your paragraphs focused.

  • Start with the questions you know best and manage time between questions.

  • Understand the meaning of all words in the question.

  • Use good grammar, punctuation and spelling.

  • Use simple, clear language to start your essay and outline your introductory paragraphs and key points.

  • Use examples to support your ideas.

  • Re-read and revise your essay.

Russell Conwell Center

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