Though there are hundreds of studies that suggest that 
many tests aren’t a true measure of your intelligence or
potential for success, the reality is most universities
still rely on them to measure a student’s academic acumen.

Because of this, it is important that you learn how to do
well on a test and succeed in college to further your
post-college potential for career success.


Test Taking Strategies

So what can you do to boost your test scores without
necessarily committing more time to the library?

Fortunately there are hundreds of time tested strategies
that smart students have been using for years.  The tips
listed below will help boost your test scores without
committing you to countless hours in the library.


Test Tips of Test Smart Students

* Study two days prior to your test to retain the maximum
amount of information possible.

* Perform a brief “re-cap” or self test the day before the
test. Only spend 20 minutes or less reviewing material.

* Study in a non-distracting environment in 1-2 hour
intervals.

* Be sure to highlight key points in the text and read over
each chapter summary to refresh your knowledge on a
particular subject.

* Talk with your professor at least a week prior to the
test and go over your study strategy.  Your professor can
point out gaps in your thinking and you will ensure you
study all the ‘essential’ information that will be on the
test.

* Fuel your brain with energy food prior to your test.
Bran muffins, complete breakfasts and fruit are all good
choices. Candy bars and coffee are not.

* Get a good night’s sleep the night prior to your test.
You can find plenty of time to party the night after your
big test.

* Make sure you know where your test is being held and show
up 15 minutes early to relieve pre-test anxiety.

* Read all the instructions on your test carefully.  Nine
out of Ten mistakes can be attributed to a misunderstanding
of test requirements.

* Be sure to ask the professor if you are unclear on any
points or questions.

* If you are trying to remember a lot of dates or specific
facts, answer all the test questions with this information
first, so you don’t have to worry about remembering
everything for the entire test.

* Sit in a secluded and non distracting area of the
classroom so you can take your test in peace.

* Go with your gut instinct and don’t change answers when
reviewing your test.  Your first instinct is usually the
right one.


Smart test takers also reduce anxiety before a test by
taking some deep breaths and relaxing.  Keep in mind the
more you stress out about a test the less likely you are to
do well. Consider a 5 minute meditation just prior to your
test to clear your mind of restless thoughts.

By adopting even a few of these strategies, you’ll likely
find your test scores improve significantly in a short
amount of time.