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Strategies for Taking Exams


Multiple Choice and True-False Exams

  1. Answer only questions that you know first. Skip tough questions come back to them.
  2. Only change your answers when you're sure they are wrong.
  3. If you're using a separate answer sheet, check every 5-10 questions to be sure you're putting the answers in the right places.
  4. The longest alternative is often true.
  5. The correct alternative is often the middle value.
  6. If two alternatives are opposite, one is probably correct.
  7. If two alternatives are the same, both can be considered wrong.
  8. Notice the grammatical agreement of a and an; an must be followed by a word beginning in a vowel.
  9. Notice singular and plural verbs. (Are indicates a plural answer.)
  10. The answer may be in the question (word association).
  11. Specific determiners:

    Usually False:
        1. always       4.all
        2. must          5.only
        3. never         6. usually

    Usually True:
        1. often          4. generally
        2. seldom       5. may
        3. perhaps      6. usually

  12. Answers to a question may be found in other questions (inter-item clues))
  13. Watch for over-statement or under-statement
  14. Watch for true-false questions with two independent clauses, on of which is false.
  15. Cross out wrong choices in multiple items.
  16. Cross out used choices in matching items
  17. Try changing the wording of difficult true-false questions.

Essay Exam Tips

  1. Read all the directions and questions before starting to write.
    1. Make notes on your planned answers, write down anything you think you might forget.
    2. Note the number of items, difficulty of watch question points for each question, and remaining time.
  2. Plan your use of time.
    1. Plan a schedule, allot time for each question according to its point value; leave plenty of time for editing.
    2. Do the easiest items first, but do them rapidly and move on.
    3. Stick to your schedule.
  3. Note the key words in each question.
    1. If you know an answer, be sure you answer only what is asked.
    2. If you don't know an answer, write something.
  4. Organize each answer before you write it.
    1. Jot down a quick outline; if you don't have time to finish a question the outline may be worth points.
    2. Remember to include an introduction and conclusion to each question.
    3. Qualify your answers when in doubt.
    4. Write nearly; print if necessary.
  5. Edit your exam carefully. Check:
    1. To see that you have answered all the questions
    2. Spelling
    3. Dates
    4. Grammar
    5. For missing words

Some Don'ts on Answering Essay Questions

  1. Don't rush
  2. Don't answer a question you haven't been asked
  3. Don't try to "snow" your instructor.
  4. Don't give your opinion unless you are asked for it.
  5. Don't avoid words because you can't spell them.
  6. Don't try the scattershot technique.

Typical Terms Used in Essay Questions

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