Multiple Choice Test Taking Strategies
Look for the best/the most accurate answer...
Remember that you are looking for the best, or most accurate, answer. It might not necessarily be the only answer that applies.
To understand the questions better...
Rewrite them in your own words if you have time. Be careful not to change the meaning.
Before you begin...
Survey the test. How many questions are there? Are there images or maps? Are some questions worth more than others? How much time do you have to take the test? Pace yourself accordingly.
When answering questions containing maps, charts, political cartoons, propaganda posters or graphs...
Analyze them thoroughly, using the analytical skills learned throughout the year so that you may accurately interpret them and select the correct answer.
If you cannot decide on the correct answer at first...
Answer the questions you know first and go back to those for which you need more time.
Make a decision!
Avoid changing your answer on a multiple-choice test question. Unless you misread the question, or ARE SURE you selected the wrong answer choice initially, your first answer choice is often correct.
Read EVERY word in the question stem...
Be sure to pay attention to specific words in a question. Words can act as clues to help you identify the correct answer.
Read ALL of the answer choices carefully...
Do not pick an answer choice just because it sounds good at first reading. Sometimes a choice is meant to sound correct but is not. Read all of the answer choices very carefully. Then, select the best one.
Process of elimination (Mrs. Jan Leisher prefers to say "GET RID OF THE WRONG ANSWER")
Eliminate answers that you know for certain are incorrect. Then choose the most likely answer from those remaining.
Check your work...
If you have time, review your work. Make sure you did not overlook any questions. Remember, do not change an answer unless you are certain about the change.
