5 answers
Addy
Student
3
Questions
Asked
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What are some good habits that can help improve my test score?
I would like to learn more about how to improve my test scores. I have been wanting to learn more habits for a while and i just can't seem to find a good habit that I can stick with. I would also want to learn more good study habits.
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5 answers
Brittany McDevitt
Account Executive
3
Answers
Columbus, Ohio
Updated
Brittany’s Answer
Hello, Addy!
One of my favorite classes in high school was Advanced Biology and not because I enjoyed Biology. My Advanced Biology teacher emphasized the importance of good notetaking and strategies to remembering any kind of content. He encouraged reading ahead of the content and gave extra credit when notes were turned in. He provided structure on "how-to" take notes and it has impacted me throughout my entire college, teaching, and current career in education publishing. It is important to find what works best for you, but I highly recommend becoming an efficient note-taker and marking up your text! Annotations, highlights, and your own thoughts will help you relate to the content you are studying and help you remember. Also, consider the signposts created by Kylene Beers and Robert Probst when studying both nonfiction and fiction. You will see patterns in the content you are studying that will help organize your thoughts and notes!
https://www.hmhco.com/blog/notice-and-note-signposts-in-reading
One of my favorite classes in high school was Advanced Biology and not because I enjoyed Biology. My Advanced Biology teacher emphasized the importance of good notetaking and strategies to remembering any kind of content. He encouraged reading ahead of the content and gave extra credit when notes were turned in. He provided structure on "how-to" take notes and it has impacted me throughout my entire college, teaching, and current career in education publishing. It is important to find what works best for you, but I highly recommend becoming an efficient note-taker and marking up your text! Annotations, highlights, and your own thoughts will help you relate to the content you are studying and help you remember. Also, consider the signposts created by Kylene Beers and Robert Probst when studying both nonfiction and fiction. You will see patterns in the content you are studying that will help organize your thoughts and notes!
Brittany recommends the following next steps:
Priyesh Mistry
Finance Manager
2
Answers
Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
Updated
Priyesh’s Answer
Create a daily routine that suits your lifestyle and preferences. Determine whether you're most productive in the morning, midday, or later in the day, and schedule your most demanding tasks during this period. I've found that beginning with a simpler task to build momentum, then transitioning to more difficult ones, can be very effective. Prioritize rest as well, steering clear of activities that drain your energy, and make sure you're getting enough sleep and nutritious food. When it comes to improving test scores, it often boils down to putting in the effort and then refining your approach, concentrating on the areas where you need the most improvement. And remember, it's okay to ask for help when you need it.
Sharon Collins
partner channel development /Marketing
14
Answers
Cave Creek, Arizona
Updated
Sharon’s Answer
Hi Addy,
In general, ensuring that you understand the content and key concepts well (not just memorizing terms), will help improve your performance on tests. I recommend reading the material your teacher will be covering in ADVANCE of the class. This way you have some knowledge of the material coming into the class and when you hear the lecture, it will be easier to follow along. Also, make sure to ask clarifying questions to ensure that you have a solid understanding of the subject matter. Take good notes and summarize the most important concepts.
I can recommend some specific test-taking strategies:
- Make sure you are managing your time during test taking. quickly scan the test to see what's coming up and make a mental note of easy and potentially time-consuming questions. Answer the easy questions first.
- Make sure you read the directions very carefully. Consider underlining keywords in the directions.
- put question marks next to answers you aren't confident about and move on... if you have time at the end, go back and revisit those questions. Also, use extra time to check for careless mistakes.
- For T/F or multiple choice questions, eliminate the obviously wrong answers, thereby increasing your chances of getting the correct answer. Some generally true guidance: A statement is usually false if it includes such absolute, black/white answers like "always", "never", or "only". Conversely, words like "usually", "most", "sometimes", "may", etc. often mean the statement is true. Also, note that a statement is only true if all of the parts of the statement are true.
- for math tests, if you have memorized formulas, write them down on the test paper or the back of the test paper as soon as you get the test, that way you aren't using up "brain space" trying to keep them fresh in your memory. The best way to prepare for math tests is to practice lots and lots of sample problems.
I applaud you for taking this initiative to continue improving! You've got this!
In general, ensuring that you understand the content and key concepts well (not just memorizing terms), will help improve your performance on tests. I recommend reading the material your teacher will be covering in ADVANCE of the class. This way you have some knowledge of the material coming into the class and when you hear the lecture, it will be easier to follow along. Also, make sure to ask clarifying questions to ensure that you have a solid understanding of the subject matter. Take good notes and summarize the most important concepts.
I can recommend some specific test-taking strategies:
- Make sure you are managing your time during test taking. quickly scan the test to see what's coming up and make a mental note of easy and potentially time-consuming questions. Answer the easy questions first.
- Make sure you read the directions very carefully. Consider underlining keywords in the directions.
- put question marks next to answers you aren't confident about and move on... if you have time at the end, go back and revisit those questions. Also, use extra time to check for careless mistakes.
- For T/F or multiple choice questions, eliminate the obviously wrong answers, thereby increasing your chances of getting the correct answer. Some generally true guidance: A statement is usually false if it includes such absolute, black/white answers like "always", "never", or "only". Conversely, words like "usually", "most", "sometimes", "may", etc. often mean the statement is true. Also, note that a statement is only true if all of the parts of the statement are true.
- for math tests, if you have memorized formulas, write them down on the test paper or the back of the test paper as soon as you get the test, that way you aren't using up "brain space" trying to keep them fresh in your memory. The best way to prepare for math tests is to practice lots and lots of sample problems.
I applaud you for taking this initiative to continue improving! You've got this!
Abirami S
Consultant
3
Answers
Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Updated
Abirami’s Answer
Begin with baby steps. Set aside a manageable 15-20 minutes each day for studying. As this routine becomes a habit, you can gradually extend your study time.
During these study sessions, start jotting down notes. Even if the subject seems tough, persist in spending your dedicated time and continue note-taking. After a few days, revisit these topics repeatedly. You'll find that with each review, your understanding of the concepts deepens. Remember, repetition is the key to mastering any subject. Keep going, you're doing great!
During these study sessions, start jotting down notes. Even if the subject seems tough, persist in spending your dedicated time and continue note-taking. After a few days, revisit these topics repeatedly. You'll find that with each review, your understanding of the concepts deepens. Remember, repetition is the key to mastering any subject. Keep going, you're doing great!
Sireesha Pendyala
1
Answer
Boston, Massachusetts
Updated
Sireesha’s Answer
Begin by strategically organizing your study approach. Identify the subjects or topics you must cover in preparation for the upcoming exam. Gather the necessary study materials and sample test questions.
Determine a daily study schedule, specifying the number of hours you'll devote to your studies. Commit to this schedule consistently, as unwavering dedication is crucial.
Upon completing each topic, assess your understanding by taking practice tests. Focus on questions related to the recently covered material. If you make any mistakes, take the opportunity to revisit and reinforce your comprehension of that specific topic.
Maintain a positive and self-assured mindset; trust in your abilities and your study plan. Avoid unnecessary self-criticism and stress and proceed with confidence in your capacity to excel.
Determine a daily study schedule, specifying the number of hours you'll devote to your studies. Commit to this schedule consistently, as unwavering dedication is crucial.
Upon completing each topic, assess your understanding by taking practice tests. Focus on questions related to the recently covered material. If you make any mistakes, take the opportunity to revisit and reinforce your comprehension of that specific topic.
Maintain a positive and self-assured mindset; trust in your abilities and your study plan. Avoid unnecessary self-criticism and stress and proceed with confidence in your capacity to excel.