How to Become a Better Test-Taker

Some students will confess that they just aren’t good test-takers. They say the anxiety and stress will get to them, and as a result, they will perform poorly on exams.

 

I say that sounds like a built-in excuse for underachieving. 

 

In life, there will be many instances where you have to either sink or swim. You can’t just shrug your shoulders and say, “I am not good at this, so if I fail, it is no big deal.” It may be a job interview, solving some immediate problem, or even something like constructing a budget you can live off of.

 

Here are some tips on how to become a better test-taker and conquer other problems in life as well. 

 

Over-Prepare

If you know you aren’t good at something and want to improve, then work even harder. However, work hard AND work smart.

 

For instance, you may be preparing for the ACT or SAT standardized exam to achieve a high score, making getting into the college of your choice much more accessible. But if you know you struggle with tests, then seek assistance from a professional tutor specializing in this field. 

 

Luckily, iAchieve has several tutors who have immense knowledge on both the SAT and ACT. Plus, they can either meet in person or tutor through remote learning. 

 

Talk One-on-One with Your Teacher

Teachers are people, too. If you go to them and voice your concerns, they will generally offer a bit of help for the test. It might be just a little advice or an encouraging word, but if they know you are worried, they will try to assist you in some sort of way. 

 

Visualize

It may seem a bit “New Age” for some, but if you visualize success in life, you are often preparing yourself for exemplary accomplishments and achievements. 

 

Visualizing can relieve stress as you plan ahead and map out a blueprint in your head. But, keep in mind, you just can’t wish upon a star and expect the best. Still, you must prepare accordingly. 

 

Rid Yourself of Problematic Distractions in Life

Of course, you can’t alleviate all distractions in life as a family and a job are commitments that must be met. But if you play video games ten hours a day, have drama-filled people in your life, and generally do things that are detrimental to your health, then you should consider paring back some of these issues and focus on what is essential. 

 

Always Read the Directions Carefully

Whether taking a test or preparing your taxes for the year, it is always vital that you read the directions carefully. You may assume you already know what the directions will say, but there is a chance you could be wrong. Take a moment, read thoroughly, and develop an understanding of what it is you are about to do. 

 

Don’t Accept Defeat

In life, just like with tests, don’t let your fears get to you. And don’t just accept Defeat without giving it your best try. If you know you struggle with something, then get better. If you lack knowledge on a topic, then educate yourself. A quick Google search will provide you with more information than you could ever read. There is no reason to concede a loss in today’s day and age of fantastic technology. 

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