Posted: September 7th, 2023

Test-Taking Strategies for Improved Outcomes

What areas related to test-taking do you feel need improvement? What strategies could you utilize to improve your own test-taking skills? List a minimum of five strategies you have identified that will assist in your successful outcome.
Your initial response to the post should be 400 words in length and include proper APA formatting when referencing your resources.

7 minutes ago

Test-Taking Strategies for Improved Outcomes
Effective test-taking is a skill that requires practice and refinement. As a research tutor and instructor, I aim to continuously enhance my abilities to successfully complete assessments. There are several areas of test-taking that could benefit from improvement, along with specific strategies to target each.
Time management is one domain that warrants focus, as the timely completion of tests allows for full consideration of each question (Cottrell, 2020). To address this, I will practice self-monitoring with a timer to gauge pacing. This enables adjustments as needed to ensure sufficient time is allotted per section or question type. Sample tests in simulated conditions will also prepare me for the pressures of an exam setting (Kauffman & Mohan, 2016).
Another opportunity is strengthening my approach to different question formats. For example, multiple choice questions involve close reading to discern subtle differences in similar answer options (Cottrell, 2020). My strategy here involves annotating questions to methodically eliminate implausible choices. For essay questions, outlining my response before writing demonstrates clear organization of ideas to evaluators (Kauffman & Mohan, 2016).
Reviewing content is key, yet focusing attention on high-yield topics is important for optimal study (Cottrell, 2020). I will utilize practice questions to gauge my mastery of learning objectives, allowing re-focus on weaker areas. Self-testing promotes long-term retention better than re-reading materials (Kauffman & Mohan, 2016; Pan et al., 2016). This will be done in conjunction with practice exams to experience questions in a low-stakes environment.
Positive self-talk and managing test anxiety are also strategies to employ. Normal pre-test nerves can be reframed into excitement rather than debilitating stress (Cottrell, 2020). Deep breathing, visualizing success, and self-encouragement empower me to perform at my best.
In summary, with a multifaceted approach targeting time, question types, content review, and mindset, my test-taking skills can be strengthened for future successful outcomes. Regular practice and self-evaluation will ensure continuous improvement.
Cottrell, S. (2020). The study skills handbook (5th ed.). Red Globe Press.
Kauffman, D. F., & Mohan, A. (2016). A framework for classroom assessment. New Directions for Teaching and Learning, 2016(145), 33–44. https://doi.org/10.1002/tl.20178
Pan, J., Agarwal, P. K., & Cheng, L. (2016). The role of self-testing in enhancing learning and retention. Frontiers in Psychology, 7, Article 1453. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2016.01453