Multiple Choice Testing Tips

If you’re like most students earning a high school diploma, you might cheer when you find out your upcoming test is multiple choice. After all, it’s not like you’ll have to write any essays or long answers, and you’ll always have at least a 25% chance of getting each question correct, right?

Then comes the day of the test. You look at one of the questions, browse through your options, and you find that both C and D seem right. Or maybe it’s an algebra test, and none of the answers match what you got after doing the math. What then?

When facing a multiple choice test, the following tips can help you out:

• Don’t stress: It seems like a weird thing to say, but don’t worry about passing the test. Focus on the test itself, not what might happen if you fail. Studies show that if you don’t stress, you’ll think more clearly and generally receive a higher grade.
• Answer the question yourself first: Before you look at the choices, think about how you would answer the question. This can keep you from getting stumped by multiple “correct” choices.
• Feel it out: If more than one answer seems right, try to picture each one as the correct answer. Often, one will feel wrong. If you trust your instincts, you’ll usually be right.

Preparation is also key for any test. If you’ve prepared by studying the subject material in advance, these tips will help you be confident when test time comes. Of course, don’t think too much about that when you’re actually taking your test. Once you’ve passed, you’ll be one test closer to getting your high school diploma being ready for your future.