By Cale Vaughan/reporter
For most students, the difference between passing and failing can depend on how well they prepare for a test.
TR government instructor James Goss gave his lunchtime workshop Test-Taking Strategies Dec. 1 to help students increase their test-taking skills.
“Test-taking strategies are very important because you don’t want to freeze up during the test,” he said.
Goss said it’s important to understand how much time is allowed for each test. He said to not spend too much time on one question, rather to skip it and go back later.
Time management is the first step in the right direction, but the next step is for students to figure out the best way they absorb information.
Each student learns differently — they may learn by using auditory or visual methods, he said.
“A technique for test taking has to be the one that fits you,” TR student Mary Williams said.
Goss said he tries to help the students by adapting to their learning styles. He said even though flash cards are “old school,” some people find them effective.
Goss also said not to cram for an exam because procrastination can cause anxiety.
Students may feel more prepared and much calmer if they show up early for the test to go over potential questions with other students, he said.
If students are not prepared, they might have a meltdown, he said. At times, students get frustrated and write answers without reading the questions.
Being prepared isn’t the only way to relax. Goss said students should take a deep breath during the test to prevent those meltdown moments.
“I was a student before, and I had the same problems,” he said.
His final bit of advice is for students to take advantage of tutors and centers for academic success. Teachers and staff want to make sure students are successful, he said.
No matter which test, Goss said it’s important for students to understand their own learning weaknesses.
