It is important to manage your time efficiently during tests. This skill is vital to your academic success. The tips below will help you.
Before the Test
Learn as much as you can about:
- The amount of time you will have to take the test
- The number of questions that will be on the test
- The type of questions that will be on the test
Arrive early with appropriate supplies (if necessary):
- Sharpened pencils and back-up pen
- Erasers
- Calculator
- Scrap paper
During the Test
Preview the entire test before you begin to:
- Determine how much time to allot for each section of the test
- Get a general idea of the questions
- Ask the professor any questions you may have
- Make sure you have all pages of the test
Use the following guidelines to help you manage your time during the test:
- Jot down any formulas, terms, or dates you think may be important before you read the test
- Prioritize the order in which you complete the test based on:
- Points—Spend more time on the questions that are worth more points
- Degree of difficulty—First answer all easy questions, and then go back to harder questions (Don’t dwell on questions you don't know. Answers to harder questions may appear later in the test.)
- Allot an appropriate amount of time at the end of the test to review your answers
Essay Tests
- If you are given potential essay questions before the test, draft an outline of your responses for each question.
Adapted from:
Gardner, J. N., & Jewler, A. J. (Eds.). (1992). Your college experience: Strategies for success. Belmont, CA: Wadsworth.
Wong. L. (2006). Essential study skills (5th ed.). Boston, MA: Houghton Mifflin.
Information provided above can also be downloaded by clicking here: Time Management During Tests