Test Preparation

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.

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.