Tips for taking all types of tests:

• As soon as you get your test, write down any information you might forget during the test (e.g. formulas, equations, key points).

• Mark questions you are not sure of and come back to them later.

• Guess instead of leaving a question blank, unless you are penalized for wrong answers; you have a better chance of getting points.

Tips for taking multiple choice tests:

• Formulate an answer in your head before you look at the answer choices. This can help make options less confusing.

• Read all of the options and eliminate obviously incorrect answers to narrow your choices.

• Try each answer with the original question and decide whether it makes a true or false statement.

• When "all of the above" is an option, double-check to see whether there is more than one correct response.

• Watch for negative words, such as "except" or "not".

• Information to answer one question may appear in other questions on the test.

Tips for taking true/false tests:

Carefully read all qualifying words such as all, most, some, never, always, usually, more, and less. Be especially cautious of absolutes like all, best, only, always, and never.

Tips for taking matching tests:

• Preview both lists to get an idea of all the options.

• As you start to match items, look at one list and formulate an answer before you search the other list.

• Guess only when you are running out of time. If you guess incorrectly early, correct answers for later matches will be eliminated.

Tips for taking problem-solving tests:

• If you get stuck, try solving the problem on scratch paper, using formulas that might fit. You may stumble across the right solution.

• Be sure to check your work. Plug answers into equations to verify that they make sense (for example time wouldn't be a negative number).

Tips for taking essay tests:

• Write a brief outline, listing main ideas and supporting points, to organize your thoughts. You may get credit for ideas included in your outline even if you run out of time to complete your essay.

• Address and answer all parts of the question. Re-read the question to make sure you have covered all of it. List points you need to address and check them off as you go.

• Note action words in the question. If the question asks you to define, describe, compare, contrast, explain or summarize make sure you are doing what it asks.

• Don't waste a lot of time deliberating about the question. Get started by outline, then write. If you are stuck, write what you know and try for partial credit.