Tricky Test Types

 

Are there some tricks to taking different types of tests?

One of the first things you should ask when you find out you are having a test is, "What type of test is it? Is it multiple choice, essay, fill in the blank, etc?" Knowing the type allows you to use these tips to help you increase your chances of getting a good grade.

 

True/False Tests

1. Watch for trick questions. One word can make a question that seems true, really be false. For example, "The play Romeo and Juliet was not written by Shakespeare." Of course, the word "not" would not be in bold print on a test, but it is one of those trick words to watch out for.

2. Watch for details that can change a true statement false. For example, "The novel Romeo and Juliet was written by Shakespeare." The word "novel" wouldn't be in bold, but again this is a key word, since Romeo and Julietis a play, not a novel.

3. The following words are words to watch out for because they can easily change the meaning of a sentence:always, never, only,all and none.

 

Multiple Choice Tests

1. Find the answers that you know are wrong. This increases your chances of choosing the right answer.

2. Try to use context clues in the question or test to narrow your choices.

3. If you must guess and have no idea of what the answer is, choose the longest answer. Often the answer with the most information is correct.

 

Essay Tests

1. Understand exactly what your teacher wants in the essay. Don't include extra information, even if it is related to the topic. It may lower your grade to get off the topic.

2. Take a few minutes to make an outline. It will save you test time because you will know exactly what to say and where to say it.

3. Have a topic sentence or thesis statement and a topic paragraph.

4. If you need help on how to write an essay, look at the writing an essay page on this tour.