Checklist for Successful Test Taking!

University of Missouri High School

THE NIGHT BEFORE:

ARRIVE PREPARED:

Eat a complete and healthy breakfast. Don’t try new foods or caffeine today!
Use the restroom.
Give yourself a pep-talk and maintain a positive attitude.
Arrive EARLY! If you don’t feel rushed, you’ll FEEL more prepared and perform better.
Greet the teacher/proctor with a happy and positive greeting

ENGAGE THE EXAM:

Listen to all instructions carefully. Ask questions on anything you don’t understand.
Plan a pace or schedule that will ensure you’re not pressed for time.
Begin by answering the easiest questions first. Flag more difficult or time-consuming questions to return to later. This helps build confidence and momentum and makes sure you grab all the “easy points” quickly!
For those flagged questions, being prepared with some basic strategies from Study Skill “Tackling Tests.”
For short answer and essay questions, use simple language and focus on including facts, examples, and detail to earn as many points as possible. Be sure to use brainstorming and prewriting strategies as you would for any essay!

BEFORE YOU LEAVE:

NEVER be the first one done; use all the time you are allowed, making sure to plan time for review.
Check for errors or missed questions. Proofread any writing for proper spelling/grammar and be sure you have included examples and/or facts to PROVE your knowledge and comprehension.
Plan a nice physical activity to relieve your mind and body of the stress of testing!