Test Taking Tips

Multiple Choice Test Questions

Test writers often set “traps” where each wrong item “sounds” right, but when looking closely at the question and using your knowledge you should realize it’s the wrong answer.

• Read the question twice (2x) and consider the question carefully BEFORE reading the answer choices.
• Pay attention to key words in the question (vocabulary, dates, other trigger words such as NOT or ALL).
• Read all of the choices before choosing the answer.
• Eliminate any answers you know are wrong (often you will be able to narrow down your choices to two). 
• Look for two choices that are similar ideas—odds are they are wrong OR the answer is “all of the above”.
• Read the stem and the answer—does the answer make grammatical and logical sense?
• When an answer has too much information it probably isn’t right.—trigger words: always, never, none, all, only.
• When in doubt about an answer, try one of the following methods to discover the right answer.
• Usually the longest answer is the right one.
• Same word choice in the answer as in the question is a trigger that is the right answer.
• If two choices are direct opposites, one of them is likely the answer.
• If one choice includes one or more of the other choices, it is usually the right answer.
• If some or often is used in a choice, it should be strongly considered as the right answer.
• If all of the above is a choice, determine whether at least two other choices are correct.
• If one response is more technical or precise it is probably the correct answer.

Constructed Response Questions

Some Constructed Response questions may ask you to read a paragraph, read a graph, map, chart, or graphic organizer, to draw a conclusion, or make an inference.  These may require you to write a paragraph, add to or create a graphic organizer, create a map, or draw a picture.  

• Read the directions carefully—two times (2x) and number the steps required.  Read the question carefully before answering.
• Look for key words in the prompt and plan your answer accordingly and only read the information you need to—often times more information is given than is needed to answer the question.  Key question prompts:  compare, contrast, cause and effect, generalization, or a sequence.
• Plan your answer—write a quick outline or rough draft if time allows.
• Target your answer—include only the information that pertains to answering the question NOT all of the information you remember about a topic.
• Support your argument/thesis with evidence and supporting details.

Extended Response Questions

These are similar to Constructed Response Questions, but ask you to focus on a document of some kind or a study/lab.  These require more time to complete than a short answer and more organization.

• Carefully read the question—read it two times (2x) and determine what the question is asking you to do.
• Number the steps needed to answer the question.
• Analyze the document—write on the test if you are permitted to do so.  Write down all the information you know about the document in a list.
• Jot down an outline before writing.  Make sure you have a strong thesis statement and evidence.
• Consider the Prewriting Checklist
• Have I read the historical context and task carefully so I understand what I’m suppose to do?
• Have I read each of the documents?
• Can I establish a relationship or links between some or all of the documents?
• Have I thought of a thesis statement?
• Did I outline my essay?
• What should I include in my conclusion?
• Write your response.
• Proofread your Extended Response before submitting the test.

 Mental Extended Response Checklist

• Do I have a thesis for my essay?
• Do my points follow logical succession?
• Do I have a conclusion for my essay?
• Have I checked and corrected, grammar, spelling, and punctuation to the best of my ability?

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