Test Strategies
RCSC Prep Workshop 2016
Test Preparation
 Study concepts, not just facts
 Write bullet points; create acronyms
 Look into corner of room
 Arrive early
 Bring 2 pens, 2 pencils, eraser, etc.
 Use toilet before exam
Test Taking Etiquette
 Look only at your paper
 Don’t say a word
 Don’t acknowledge anyone
 Read question paper thoroughly first
 Decide strategy for order
 Use rough paper (not hands)
General Test Strategies
 Tackle easiest questions first
 Concentrate on large point value
 Read question thoroughly (not answers)
 Figure out answer before looking
 Skip some questions – answers may appear
 Use all available time to check answers
Multiple Choice Strategies
 Look for related words
Example:
What is the antonym of “Vacate”?
a. Abandon
b. Occupy
c. Holiday
d. Discharge
Multiple Choice Strategies
 Look for parts of speech
Example:
What is the antonym of “Vacate”?
a. Abandon
b. Occupy
c. Holiday
d. Discharge
Multiple Choice Strategies
 Look for opposites in answers
Example:
What is the antonym of “Vacate”?
a. Abandon
b. Occupy
c. Holiday
d. Discharge
Multiple Choice Strategies
 Look for related words
Example:
What is the synonym of “Austere”?
a. Destitute
b. Ostentatious
c. Lavish
d. Strict
Multiple Choice Strategies
 Look for parts of speech
Example:
What is the synonym of “Austere”?
a. Destitute
b. Ostentatious
c. Lavishly
d. Strict
Multiple Choice Strategies
 Look for opposites in answers
Example:
What is the synonym of “Austere”?
a. Destitute
b. Ostentatious
c. Lavish
d. Strict
Multiple Choice Strategies
 Be careful of tricks
Example:
What is the synonym of “Enervated”?
a. Energetic
b. Exhaustion
c. Nervous
d. Weary
Multiple Choice Strategies
 Beware of elaborate answers
Example:
What is the synonym of “Ascetic”?
a. Frugal
b. The fusion of 2 elements into a single one
c. Elaborate
d. Nervous
Multiple Choice Strategies
 Look for clues in other answers
Example:
What is the antonym of “Ostentatious”?
a. Flamboyant
b. Austere
c. Pretentious
d. Yellow
Multiple Choice Strategies
 Watch for plural / singular
Example:
What is the synonym of “Reproach”?
a. Approval
b. Insults
c. Approach
d. Admonition
Multiple Choice Strategies
 All of the above is more often true
Example:
What is the antonym of “Desecrate”?
a. Spoil
b. Treat with disrespect
c. Violate
d. All of the above
e. None of the above
General Advice
 NEVER leave an answer blank!!!
 Note items you missed.
 Reread instructions.
 Correct only if misunderstood question.
 First answers usually correct.
 Fill in the blank: If unsure, GUESS!
 Short answer questions: Keep answer SHORT!
 Essay: Say as much as you can, but DON’T REPEAT.
References
 Where There’s a Will There’s an A
 Synonyms & Antonyms: <englishforeveryone.org>
 Test Taking Tips: <testtakingtips.com>