Preparing for a Test

Before a test or exam, find out…

• What type of test will it be? (multiple choice, essay…) How much of your grade will it be worth?
• What will be covered? Write down which topics and textbook chapters to study. Gather all your materials (handouts, notes, books); organize them by topic.
• Make a study schedule; remember, several shorter review periods help more than one panicky night-before study session.
• If you plan to study with a group, do it well before the test.
• Make study aids based on the type of test it will be (e.g., make flashcards of definitions. Make a “cram sheet” of formulas).
• Try different study strategies:
• Turn textbook headings into questions, and then answer them out loud or in your head. Practice defining or explaining things in your own words.
• Highlight key facts in your notes, using different colors for different types of facts. Work through review questions.
• Get a good night’s sleep – even if it means studying a bit less – and don’t skip breakfast.