Studying and Taking Tests

To avoid running out of time on a test, you should: A) spend time reviewing the entire test before you start to budget your time. B) write quickly, even if it's not so neat. C) stick with a difficult question until you get a right answer so that you don't have to come back to it. D) frequently ask your instructor to tell you how much time is left.

A)

Break the concept into key parts.

Analyze

Match the testing error example with the appropriate corrective step: I confused terms or concepts.

Check and practice your active reading and listening skills.

All of the following are considered effective study strategies, except: A) Study in a quiet, well-lit place. B) Take short breaks if you are studying for a long time. C) Schedule a consistent study-review time for each course at least once a week. D) Consume sugary foods or drinks to avoid fatigue.

D)

Which of the following is considered a strategy in answering multiple choices questions: A) Eliminate the wrong answer or the distractor. B) Choose the answer that would make the statement true. C) Turn the stem around into an open-ended question. D) All of the above.

D)

Describe the meaning of a word, phrase, or concept.

Define

Explain or review.

Discuss

Good essay answers are based on your thoughts, and should not include examples from class or the course materials. True or False

False

Match the testing error example with the appropriate corrective step: I confused terms or concepts that I actually know well.

Give yourself time to read carefully and think before answering a question.

Match the testing error example with the appropriate corrective step: I did not study the material for that question.

Practice predicting possible questions better.

Match the testing error example with the appropriate corrective step: I forgot to go back to a question I had skipped over.

Slow down! Don't rush through the exam. Take the time to do things right the first time.

Short answer questions require what kind of response?

Specific

Give a brief, precise description of an idea or concept.

Summarize

Read the following case study, and respond to the questions provided. Please write in paragraph format. Monica has a Biology mid-term exam due by Saturday of this week. On the night before she plans to take exam, Monica has a hard time falling asleep and when she does, she has various nightmares about taking tests. The day of the exam, Monica decides not to eat anything, as she is afraid it will make her stomach upset. By the time she arrives at the testing center, Monica is irritable and negative about the exam. The slightest noise seems to bother her. The testing center staffer directs Monica to a computer station and she takes a seat. Monica notices that her palms are sweaty and she is feeling nauseous, even though she hasn't eaten anything. She ponders for a moment, not taking the exam; but, it is Saturday and the deadline to take it is today. So, Monica begins the exam. Although she studied for the exam the previous week and spent the night before cramming, she can't seem to recall any of the information. Monica is suddenly drawing a complete blank. The ticking of the clock, other students shifting in their chairs is becoming distracting; and Monica's frustration level is quickly rising. Monica says to herself, "If you can't pass this exam, you might as well drop the course because you are no good at biology". Monica continues with the test, checking the clock constantly as she fears she is going to run out of time; because she arrived an hour and a half before the testing center closes. Other students are finishing their exams and soon, she is the only student left in the testing center. What strategies would you suggest for Monica to deal with her test anxiety? What study strategies could she try to help her better prepare for her exams? Can you relate to any of the symptoms that Monica is experiencing? If so, how do you combat test anxiety? How do you usually prepare for your exams? Do you think it has been effective or can you better prepare? What strategies from the StudentLingo video and/or e-book might you now consider using in preparing for or taking exams? How might the strategies relate to your learning style?

There are many strategies I would suggest Monica to use to help her deal with her test anxiety. The first one I would suggest is to think positive and take five deep breaths when she starts to feel anxious. I would also tell her to visualize success and don't worry about who turns in their exam first. Another important suggestion I would give Monica is to get a good night's sleep before the exam, eat well, and if time allows take a jog 45 minutes before test time to help prepare the body and mind. There are a few study strategies I would give Monica to help better prepare her for her exams. One of those strategies would be to effectively study, which happens over time not just a few days before the exam. I would let her know it is important to consistently and regularly review class material. Another study strategy I would suggest is joining a study group that is well managed. Last but certainly not least, I would tell Monica to use class quizzes or mid-terms to study from, as they are predictors as to what will be on the exam. I can relate to Monica's symptom of having sweaty hands and her test anxiety. Ways I combat test anxiety is by taking deep chest breaths and closing my eyes and visualizing success. Another way I combat test anxiety is by being prepared and feeling confident in myself. To prepare for exams I review all class quizzes and definitions, as well as check the syllabus or check with the professor and see what the exam will consist of. I have found my strategies to be effective, however I could better prepare myself by effectively studying more over time. There is one strategy I learned from the StudentLingo video that I might now consider when preparing to take exams. I would like to try being physically active 45 minutes to an hour prior to taking an exam. This will not only help with test anxiety, but will also affect my physical and mental health in a positive way. This strategy does not particularly relate to my learning style, but I think it will help to combat test anxiety and bring on positive vibes.

Effective studying is an ongoing process and should be done throughout the semester; not just before exams. True or False

True

It is best to try to answer a multiple choice question in your own head, rather than relying on the choices. True or False

True

Words like "always," "never," and "every" are words that are rarely found in a correct option. True or False

True