Archive for the ‘Tips’ Category

Praxis II-Smart tips for taking the tests

Posted by Test Preparation on April 9th, 2010

1. Put your answers in the right “bubbles.” It seems obvious, but if you are taking the paper-and-pencil version of a multiple-choice test, you should make sure you are “bubbling in” the answer to the right question on your answer sheet. Check the question number each time you fill in an answer. Use a Number 2 lead pencil, and be sure that each mark is heavy and dark and completely fills the answer space. If you change an answer, be sure the previous mark is erased completely. For the PPST computer-based version, be sure that the circle next to your chosen answer is dark after you have clicked on it. Praxis II Test

2. Be prepared for questions that use the words LEAST, EXCEPT, or NOT. Some questions may ask you to select that choice that doesn’t fit or that contains information that is not true. Questions in this format use the words Least, Except, or NOT. The words are capitalized when they appear in test questions. This alerts you to the fact that you are looking for the single answer choice. Here is an example of a question in this format that might be on the math part of the PPST.
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Graphing Calculators and the Praxis Middle School Mathematics Test.

Posted by Test Preparation on February 24th, 2010

Because you likely will be bringing a graphing calculator to use when you take the Praxis Middle School Mathematics test, you should have your calculator on hand and use it. Select a calculator that you will feel comfortable using. Don’t purchase a high-powered calculator that will require an investment of your time to learn while you are preparing for the test.

A word of caution: Graphing calculators are very powerful tools, but you should be aware they can make errors!

One situation in which errors might occur is when the calculator is finding the roots or zeros of a high-degree polynomial. The algorithm that the calculator uses to find the roots of the polynomial forces the calculator to round numbers to a certain number of decimal places before the final result is obtained. thus yielding inaccurate answers.

Another situation in which errors commonly occur is when the calculator is drawing the graph of a function. Your choice of viewing window dimensions can give results that are visually very misleading. For instance, you can be led to believe that a function has only two zeros when, in fact, it has three zeros, Changing the dimensions for the viewing window can clear up the problem in most cases; however, not every time.

The point of this discussion is to make  you aware that such mistakes can happen. Therefore, you should use your mathematical expertise to evaluate all your calculator’s answers for reliability and accuracy.

Good luck on the test and on your new career as a middle school mathematics teacher!

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Test Taking Strategies for the Praxix Middle School Mathematics Test

Posted by Test Preparation on February 15th, 2010

Here are some general test-taking stratefies to help maximize 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 thedirections. If you do not understand something in the directions, ask the test administrator for clarification.
  3. Work through the test at a steady pace. Part 1 of the test consists of 40 multile-choice items. As you begin the test, skim through the booklet to find multiple-choice question 20, mark this question as an approximate one-third-of-the way point. When you get to question 20, check your watch to see how much time has passed. If more than 40 minutes have gone by, you will need to pick up the pace. Otherwise, continue to work as rapidly as you can without being careless, but do not rush.
  4. Try to work the problems 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.
  6. Write in the test booklet. Mark on diagram. draw figures, underline or circle key words or phrases, and do scratch work in the test booklet. Remember, however, to mark your answer choice in the separate answer booklet. Answers marked only in the test booklet are not scored.
  7. Don’t read too much into a question. For instance, don’t presume a geometric figure is drawn accurately or to scale.
  8. Use your calculator, but use it wisely. Keep in mind that graphing calculators are powerful tools, but they can make errors. See the discussion about graphing calculators that follows this section.
  9. Be sure you are answering the question asked. Circle or underline what you are being asked to find, to help you stay focused on it.
  10. Read all the answer choices before you select an answer. You might find an answer that immediately strikes you as correct. but this determination might have occurred because you jumped to a false conclusion or made an incorrect assumption.
  11. Eliminate as many wrong choices as you can. Estimate the answer to help you decide which answers are unreasonable.
  12. Change an answer only if you have a good reason to do so. Be sure to completely erase the old answer choice before making the new one.
  13. If you are trying to making to recall information during the test, close your eyes and try to visualize yourself in your study place. This might trigger your memory.
  14. Remain clam during the test. If you start to feel anxious, briefly close your eyes, breathe in and out slowly, and mentally visualize yourself in a peaceful place, to help you relax.
  15. Record your answers to the multiple-choice items in the answer booklet carefully, this part of the test is scored electronically, so it is critical that you mark your answer booklet accurately. As you go through the test questions, circle the letters of your answer choice in the test booklet. Then mark those answers in the answer booklet in bunches of 5 to 10.
  16. Even though the testing company recommends that you spend only 40 minutes working the constructed-response questions, try to save at least 45 minutes for this part of the test - because it counts 33 percent of your test score.
  17. Be sure you answer all parts of each constructed-response question and that you give complete and full explanations for your answers.
  18. Before turning in your answer booklet, check that you have marked an answer for every multiple-choice test question. You are not penalized for a wrong answer, so even if you have no clue about how to work the problem, make a guess.
  19. Before turning in your answer booklet, erase any stray marks in the answer booklet and brush off any loose eraser dust.
  20. As you work through the practice tests provided in this book, consciously use the strategies suggested in this section as preparation for the actual praxix Middle School Mathematics test. Try to reach the point where the strategies are automatic for you.
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Test-taking strategies for the ParaPro Assessment

Posted by Test Preparation on February 8th, 2010

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…)
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GED test taking tips

Posted by Test Preparation on November 16th, 2009

You may be unfamiliar with standardized tests, such as the GED. There are many ways for you to familiarize yourself with this type of examination. Listed below are points to help you become familiar with the GED, some of which may be applied to other standardized tests, as well.

How to beat the clock

Become comfortable with the standardized format: When you are practicing to take the GED, pretend that you are under the same time constraints as you would be during the test. Stay calm, pace yourself, and pay attention to the clock. Practice these techniques thoroughly. After simulating the test only a few times, you will boost your chances of doing well and you will be able to sit down for the actual GED much more confidently.

Become familiar with the directions: Make sure you read and understand the directions before you take the exam, so that you do not waste valuable testing time.

Know the format for each section before yuo actually take the test: This will not only save you valuable time, but also ensure that you are familiar enough with the exam to avoid anxiety (and the mistakes that come from being anxious).

Work on the easier questions first: Mark the very difficult questions (in the test booklet, not on the answer sheet) and continue. Remember, only correct answers will be counted in your score. You will not be penalized for guessing, so when you have either answered or marked all of the questions, go back and answer any of the difficult questions that you may have skipped. If you find yourself working too long on one question, mark it and go on. Be sure that you are marking your answer in the space that corresponds to the number of the question in the test booklet.

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What are some GED test-taking tips?

Posted by Test Preparation on November 8th, 2009

Prepare physically: Get plenty of rest and eat a well-balanced meal before the test so that you will have energy and will be able to think clearly. Intense studying at the last minute probably will not help as much as having a relaxed and rested mind.

Arrive early: Be at the testing center at least 15 to 20 minutes before the starting time. Make sure you have time to find the room and to get situated. Keep in mind that many testing centers refuse to admit those who come once the Test has started. Some testing centers operate on a first come, first served basis; so you want to be sure that there is an available slot for you on the day that you’re ready to test.

Think positively: Tell yourself you will do well. If you have studied and prepared for the test, you should succeed.

Relax during the test: Take half a minute several times during the test to stretch and breathe deeply, especially if you are feeling anxious or confused.

Read the test directions carefully: Be sure you understand how to answer the questions. If you have any questions about the test or about filling in the answer form, ask before the test begins.

Know the time limit for each test: Some testing centers allow extra time, while others do not. You may be able to find out the policy of your testing center before you take the test, but always work according to the official time limit. If you have extra time, go back and check your answers.

Have a strategy for answering questions: You should read through the reading passages or look over the materials once and then answer the questions that follow. Read each question two or three times to make sure you understand it. It is best to refer back to the passage or graphic in order to confirm your answer choice. Don’t try to depend on your memory of what you have just read or seen. Some people like to guide their reading by skimming the questions before reading a passage. Use the method that works best for you.

Don’t spend a lot of time on difficult questions: If you’re not sure of an answer, go on to the next question. Answer easier questions first and then go back to the harder questions. However, when you skip a question, be sure that you have skipped the same number on your answer sheet. Although skipping difficult questions is a good strategy for making the most of your time, it is very easy to get confused and throw off your whole answer key.

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Things to take to the GMAT (and things to leave at home)

Posted by Test Preparation on November 3rd, 2009

The most important thing you can bring to the GMAT is a positive attitude and a willingness to succeed. However, if you forget your admission voucher or your photo ID, you won’t get the chance to apply those qualities! In addition to the voucher and ID, you should also bring a list of five schools where you’d like to have your scores sent. You can send your scores to up to five schools for free if you select those schools when entering your pretest information at the test site. You can, of course, list fewer than five schools, but if you decide to send your scores to additional schools later, you’ll have to pay. If you can come up with five schools you’d like to apply to, you may as well send your scores for free.

Because you can take two optional five-minute breaks, we recommend you bring along a quick snack like a granola bar and perhaps a bottle of water. You can’t take food or drink with you to the testing area, but you are given a little locker that you can access during a break.

There’s really nothing else to bring. You can’t use a calculator and you’ll be provided with an erasable notepad (which is a lot like a mini dry-erase board), which you’re required to use instead of pencil and paper.

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Timing the GMAT test perfectly: When to take the GMAT & what to bring

Posted by Test Preparation on November 2nd, 2009

Which MBA programs to apply to isn’t the only decision you have to make. After you’ve figured out where you want to go, you have to make plans for the GMAT. You need to determine when’s the best time to take the test and what you should bring with you when you do.

When to register for and take the GMAT

When’s the best time to take the GMAT? With the computerized test, this questions has become more interesting. When the exam was a paper-and-pencil format with a test booklet and an answer sheet full of bubbles, you had a very limited choice of possible test dates - about one every two months. Now you’ve got much more flexibility when choosing the date and time for taking the test. You can choose just about any time to sit down and click answer choices with your mouse.

Registering when you’re ready

The first step in the GMAT registration process is scheduling an appointment, but don’t put off making this appointment the way you’d put off calling the dentist (even though you probably would like to avoid both!) Depending on the time of year, appointment times can go quickly. Usually, you have to wait at least a month for an open time. To determine what’s available, you can go to the official GMAT web site www.mba.com and select “Take the GMAT.” From there, you can choose a testing location and find out what dates and times are available at that location. When you find a date and time you like, you can register online, over the phone, or by mail or fax.

The best time to take the GMAT is after you’ve had about four to six weeks of quality study time and during a period when you don’t have a lot of other things going on to distract you. Of course, if your MBA program application is due in four weeks, put off your books and schedule an appointment right away! If you have more flexibility, you should still plan to take the GMAT as soon as you think you’ve studied sufficiently. All of the following circumstances warrant taking the GMAT as soon as you can: (more…)

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GED: Top 10 strategies to raise your score

Posted by Test Preparation on October 29th, 2009

When it comes to taking the GED (General Education Development), some test-taking skills will do you more good than others. Here are our picks for the top 10 ways to raise your score.

  1. Get to the test center early.
    Make sure you give yourself plenty of extra time to get there.
  2. Listen to the test monitors and follow their instructions carefully.
  3. Read every word of the instructions. Read every word of every question.
  4. Mark your answers by completely darkening the answer space of your choice.
  5. Mark only ONE answer for each question, even if you think that more than one answer is correct. You must choose only one. If you mark more than one answer, the scoring machine will consider you wrong.
  6. If you change your mind, completely erase your initial choice.
    Leave no doubt as to which answer you intend.
  7. Check often to be sure that the question number matches the answer space, that you haven’t skipped a space by mistake.
  8. Stay alert.
    Be careful not to mark a wrong answer just because you weren’t concentrating.
  9. Don’t panic.
    If you cannot finish a part before time is up, don’t worry. Do not let your performance on any part affect your performance on any other part.
  10. Check and recheck, time permitting.
    If you finish a part before time is up, use the remaining time to check that each question is answered in the right space and that there is only one answer for each question. Return to the questions you found difficult and rethink them.
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Online CAT 2009 Test Preparation

Posted by Test Preparation on October 28th, 2009

CAT has become one of the most competitive exams for preparation to judge the potential of the candidates willing to pursue their career in Business Administration. Ending a three-decade-old paper-pencil format for the Common Admission Test (CAT), the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) have decided to adopt a computer based model for CAT 2009. The new Computer Based Test (CBT) will be embraced by IIMs across the country - Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Kolkata, Indore, Kozhikode, Lucknow and Shillong, and will give the students the flexibility to select a date convenient to them from a specified period of 10 days. The new system is also expected to help the Institutes of Management cope effectively with the increasing number of candidates every year. While around 95,000 candidates took CAT in 2003, the number rose to about 2,50,000 in 2008, reflecting a phenomenal growth, bringing the administrative system under severe pressure. With the online test, CAT will be similar to the GMAT test in its process.

The CAT will be conducted at Prometric centres across India.

In 2003, CAT question paper had been leaked and this resulted in a retest being held later that year. Computer-Based Test will ensure enhanced security in terms of biometric identification of candidates and video monitoring. Such a format is expected to improve communication between candidates and IIMs in terms of programme information, test delivery, receipt of admit cards and receipt of score reports. However, the nature of study preparation does not depend on whether the CAT is a paper-based or a computer-based test.

Every year, the CAT has changed in some way or the other. This year, the change is with respect to the mode of taking the test. As far as preparing the concepts are concerned, there will not be any change. However, one must go through sufficient online practice to acclimatise oneself with the online testing process. One needs material that will cover basic concepts explained in a friendly manner, CAT application-based questions for practice with explanatory answers and test papers. Also, it is a good idea to check out the material of most of the reputed MBA training institutions.

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