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Writer's pictureArya Marwaha

How To Study For Tests

Tests are an important way teachers evaluate your mastery of a subject. It is important to study several days before a big test, and not just the night before it. Below, I will list some important study tips you can use to prepare yourself for test day.


1. Neat study area

Before you begin preparing for a test, have a comfortable chair and a desk with enough space to organize everything. Also, have plenty of pencils and scratch paper if needed later during your study period.


2. Know what is being tested

Always ask your teacher what concepts the test will cover. Make sure you only study what is relevant to the test, and avoid wasting time studying the wrong material. Also, see if the teacher is willing to tell you how the test will be formatted (true/false, short answer, multiple-choice, etc.)


3. Notecards or Quizlet for vocabulary terms

When studying for tests, there will often be a vocabulary section located somewhere in the chapter(s). I strongly recommend going through each of these terms and writing out flashcards with the term and definition on either side. Then, test yourself on all of the terms repeatedly until you feel confident.


4. Look at your in-class notes

More likely than not, your teacher will ask questions on topics covered in class together. One of the best ways to prepare is by analyzing and carefully reading through the concepts and diagrams from your notes in class.


5. Skim over your textbook

If you have access to your physical textbook, look over the chapters covered on the test. Instead of rereading entire chapters, look over the highlighted portions and notes you made in the margins to study.


6. Don’t skip over the “easy” stuff

Study everything. There is never a reason to skip over a problem written in your notes that you think you already know. Avoid careless errors on exam day by restudying formulas you may have forgotten, or any other important information.


7. Practice with old exams

There is no better way to prepare for exams than by studying with prior ones. If you have access to old test resources, use them. Time yourself, and take the test as you would on the real one.


8. Take breaks

Do not forget to take breaks between study sessions. Feel free to go outside for a little, eat a healthy snack, or just move around. I recommend you take 10-minute breaks every 45 minutes.


9. Get a good night’s sleep

Most importantly, do not forget to get good sleep. Our body needs 8-9 hours for optimal performance during test day.


Having an organized study schedule will help you perform better when test day comes around. All nine of these steps are helpful tips designed to help you improve your test score in any academic subject. Remember that these are not requirements, but simply suggestions to help you score higher. Good luck!

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