Test Taking

Essay Tests

An essay test measures your knowledge of the subject, your ability to communicate and your organizational skills. Study for an essay test the same you would study for any test. It may help to write out summaries as you study.
When you get the test, look over all the questions and set up a time frame to answer them. Give priorities to questions that carry more credit. Time yourself as you do each question, so you will answer some of every through. Read the question carefully and answer what is asked. Make sure that you follow the instructions and watch for words such as compare, criticize, and define. Put the question in your words in order to give yourself an idea of how to answer it.
Think about what you need to write. It may help to jot down a broad outline. Make sure that your main point is easily visible to your instructor. Write with clarity and with brevity. An essay test does not need to be cluttered with extra information or useless adjectives, adverbs or prepositions. State your point and your answer clearly.
Make sure that each paragraph in the essay test has a point and a clarification of that point. Use transitional devices to connect the paragraphs to each other. Be sure to have a summary or concluding paragraph wrapping up your main points.
Give yourself enough time to read back over your answer. Make any corrections that are needed. Check your spelling, punctuation, grammar, dates, formulas and tabulations.

Oral Tests

Oral tests become more common as your college career progresses. During an oral test, both your knowledge of a subject and your communication skills are being evaluated. Oral tests may take place in front of one person, a panel or a class.

Formal oral tests usually follow a list of questions. You know how to answer the question. You should not give out any extra information unless you have asked. During informal tests, you can give longer responses with more information. When you study for an oral test, be sure you are prepared. Ask your teacher for information as to what is expected on the test. Study what is suggested. Make sure you know the correct time, date and location of the exam. If you are using any visual aids, double check to be sure all the equipment is in place.
Dress for the test and act professionally. Be on time or early. Act as if the test begins when you walk into the room. Stay focused on the question, and do not give out too much information. If you do not know the answer, say so. It may help if you give an outline of the process you would use to find the answer. Do not acknowledge your nervousness.
When the test over, go over your strengths and weaknesses. Think about how you could improve your performance.