What is the best study schedule for a big upcoming test?

Question

How do I prepare for an upcoming test?

Answer 1

How would I prepare for an upcoming test? Let's assume that the course has included reading chapters in a textbook, doing homework problems, and taking quizzes.

First, I would re-read the relevant chapters of the textbook and, while reading, make flash cards of any items where my spider-sense says "Aha! This is JUST the thing my teacher would put on a test." [Note - if I had been smart enough to take notes or make flash cards the FIRST time I read the textbook, I could skip this step].

Then I would go back over my homework assignments and, in each assignment, identify the 20% - 25% hardest problems ' questions; I would rework those problems from scratch (i.e., not looking at the answer) and make flash cards about what I needed to know or do to solve those problems/questions.

Then I would go back over the quizzes and, like the homework, select the 20%-25% problems/questions that I had either missed, or had considered "tough", redo them (not looking at the answer), and make flashcards on what I needed to know or do to answer those problems / questions.

Finally, I would have a family member or friend quiz me on the flash cards a few times, shuffling them to alter their order so I did not get used to a particular sequence. After the first few runs thru the flash cards, I would have my quizzer start setting aside the ones I got right each time, keeping just the ones I missed for the next round. When I had all of them right, I would set them aside until the night before the test, when I would repeat the process I just described.

If you study for a test in this manner, I can just about guarantee that you will do well on the test.

Answer 2

Start by reviewing your own class notes. If your teacher provides you with a study guide, consult its criteria so that you know exactly what content and types of questions (multiple-choice, short-answer, essays, mix-and-match, diagramming, etc.) will be on the test. Also reach out to your teacher directly (in person and through email) with any and all questions you have about the test AHEAD OF TIME.

Form a study group with your classmates to feed off of each other in terms of sharing knowledge and information. They may be able to help you better understand any specific test topics you may be struggling with contextually and comprehensively, and you them as well.

Get a good night’s sleep the night before a test. Come to school the following day ready with working writing utensils.

Bottom line: DON’T PANIC. No matter what grade you get on a test, just knowing that you did your best and exercised your knowledge of the material at hand to the fullest reflects your own hard work and overall commitment to your studies.

All the best to you going forward! You will do just fine. If ever you need further assistance with contextual review, you know there is a tutor ready, willing, and able to help you out.

Answer 3

Hi students: Wow, big question! You are thinking, I have had some problems before with some tests and I am not feeling so good about that. What can I do differently to get that turned around?

I was in a teacher training program in California. The requirement for the program was to take an initial general test for teaching and then three separate tests. One test was for math and science and I knew those were not my strongest subjects. I studied for five weeks before taking this four hour test. Now you say, that seems a little excessive! Maybe, but I passed it the first time. There was a woman in my group that flunked the same test three times. What am I saying? Give yourself enough lead time to study and be prepared for that test. Also, 'enough time' is not one week or three days before. How many weeks? Well, have you taken the test before and if so, how well did you do? Also, is this specific test your strong skill or weak skill? I have had Toefl students who were in a study prep class for an entire semester; the end result, several improved their test scores by 50 points. 50 points may be the difference to getting into your desired program or not.

What to do:

a) Get a planner and write in the days and times of your upcoming classes and/or the test day.

b) When will you study?????? On the average, most students can do two hours per day. On the planner (yes!) make a date with yourself and schedule that study time.

c) How many days? Very few students want to study seven days a week. How about four or five days? Figure out which days of the week those will be for you and write that in your planner.

d) Have a 'study place' that is free from distractions (TV, computer, cell phone, cat, dog, brothers, sisters, etc.) and make this your place to study. Also, it should not be your bed (that's for sleeping!)

e) Lastly, you already know which sections will be difficult. Now is the time to reach out and find a tutor. Find someone who is good in that specific field. Determine if you are comfortable with that tutor; if not, change and find someone new. Schedule a regular 'check in time' each week for 30 to 60 mins. Ask the tutor how many weeks you should study for the test? Does that feel right? If not, up it to your comfort level.

You think, wow, that is so much money! Consider this, how much money will you spend if you have to retake this test? Think of it as an investment in your education and yourself.

Final word; set a goal for yourself. How about a 650 on SAT Reading or a 550 on TOEFL or passing that ASVAB the first time? Don't feel badly if you need some help to accomplish this goal; remember, not everyone is good at everything. We all need some help along the way. Hey, my students help me with computer functions all the time. Later!

Courtney W., MA