Important Note: As of this writing, many standardized tests
are no longer offered “on paper,” only on computer (CAT—for
computer-adaptive testing format). Among the most important that
fall into this category are the GMAT (Graduate Management
Admissions Test), GRE (Graduate Record Exam), and TOEFL
(Test of English as a Foreign Language), along with a number of
specific licensing tests.
What does this mean to you? Tests available only in CAT format
require a different strategy because of two important factors:
You can’t return to a previous answer, and you can’t skip a question
and return to it later. Make sure you know if you are taking a
computer or written test and practice (and strategize) accordingly!
Chapter 8
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How to Study for Tests
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A Special Note for Parents
Many parents take their children’s grades and test scores far too
seriously. Here’s my advice to them:
1. Don’t get overanxious about your child’s test scores. Too much
emphasis solely on grades can upset a child, especially one
already chafing under too much pressure.
2. Children who are afraid of failing are more likely to make
mistakes on tests. Help them feel confident about everything
they do.
3. Don’t judge your child by a single test score, no matter how
important the test. No test is a perfect measure of what a
child can do or what she has actually learned.
4. Talk to your child’s teacher as often as possible. Her assessment
will be a far better measure of how your child is doing than
any test, or even any series of tests.
5. Make sure your child attends school regularly. You can’t do
well on tests if you are rarely in class.
6. Make sure your child gets enough sleep, especially before a
big test. Tired eyes lead to tired grades.
7. Review test results with your child and show him what he can
learn from a graded exam paper. This is especially crucial in
math and the sciences, where a new concept builds upon the
previous ones.
8. Look at the wrong answers. Find out why she answered as
she did. This will identify times when your child knew the
right answer but didn’t fully understand the question.
9. Read and discuss any teacher comments on the test,
especially if your child received a poor grade.
How to Study
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