1.  Use the allotted time wisely. Make every effort to pace yourself so you can have a chance to answer every question within the time limit.

 2.  Be familiar with the mechanics of the test and the kinds of questions you can expect. Know the rules for scoring and what the penalties are for wrong answers. Whenever possible, take a practice test before the test date under the time limit and other conditions you can expect on the actual test.

 3.  Be thoroughly familiar with all the directions. Look over the entire test before you begin to answer the question. If you are familiar with the whole test concept, you will know what to expect in advance, thus avoiding confusion.

 4.  Take the questions in order but do not spend a lot of time pondering over those you are unfamiliar with. A good practice is to first answer the questions you are sure of. Then, if you complete the test before time is called, reconsider those about which you were uncertain. If you skip a question, make a mark on the test or answer sheet. Be sure to skip the corresponding number on the answer sheet.

 5.  Read each question carefully and thoroughly. Before answering the question, determine exactly what is being asked. Do not select the first answer you come to that seems to make sense. It may seem to fit, but you are looking for the best answer. Never skim a question for possible answers as you may miss important information.

 6.  Generally, on a standardized test, a person can do very well without answering every question. No one is expected to get a perfect score. Relatively few people are able to finish every question.

 7.  If there is no penalty for guessing, eliminate answer options which do not seem to fit and guess among the remaining options. If you make a straight guess at a multiple choice answer, you have a one-in-four chance of getting it right; if you eliminate one option, you have a one-in three chance of getting it right; and if you can eliminate two options, you have a one-in-two chance of getting it right.

 8.  Mark your answer sheet carefully. Make sure your marks completely fill the spaces. Keep your place, especially if you skip items. Putting the right answer in the wrong place can be extremely frustrating.

 9.  Do not mark more than one answer for each question on a multiple choice test unless the directions specify to do so. Questions with more than one answer marked are usually scored as incorrect.

 10.  A timed writing test makes it's own particular demands on you as a writer. In practicing for a writing test, try to simulate test conditions as much as possible. Practice writing responses to sample topics within the given time limit. It is important to be realistic about what you can do within the time frame.

Other Suggestions to Reduce Test Anxiety

 1.  Know your subject matter before entering the examination room. Uncertainty creates anxiety. If you have trouble studying, you should first learn to develop effective study habits.

 2.  Dress in such a way that you can adapt to any room temperature and dress as comfortably as possible.

 3.  Get a good nights rest before taking the test. Arise early enough to eat a hearty breakfast and to arrive at the test just a bit early. Allow enough time to look the environment over very well. Try to seat yourself away from potential sources of distraction. Do not sit near a window or a door, or a friend or relative, or an attractive person.

 4.  If you tend to stress easily, after being admitted to the test and before the test begins, take a few minutes to relax. To do this, close your eyes, breath deeply, and let your mind think of a calming, peaceful scene.

 5.  Take two or three sharpened number 2 pencils with erasers with you to the test. Also take a black ball point pen if you think you may have to write an essay. Knowing that you have everything you need for the test will help to reduce your anxiety.

 6.  Do not come into the examination room with thoughts of leaving early. Think only of using all the time allotted to you to focus on the exam, to read and comprehend the question, and to formulate and write answers. You should become so intent on the exam that you are surprised when the time is up.

 7.  The Test administrator has the responsibility of providing the right environment but it is your responsibility to enter the testing situation with the right attitude.