Test Preparation

Here are some general test-taking strategies to help maximize your score on the test:

1. When you receive the test, briefly close your eyes, breathe in and out slowly, and mentally visualize yourself working through the test successfully.
2. During the test, read and follow all the directions. If you do not understand something in the direction, ask the test administrator for clarification.
3. Work through each test section (reading, mathematics, or writing) at a steady pace. You should plan to spend about 50 minutes on each section of the test. Check your watch periodically to make sure you are not spending too much time on any one section.
4. Try to answer the test questions in each section in order. Skipping around can waste time and might cause mistakes on your answer sheet. However, if a question is taking too much of your time, place a large check mark next to it in the test booklet , mark your best guess in the answer booklet, and move on.
5. Read each question entirely, Skimming to save time can cause you to misread a question or miss important information. (more…)