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You have heard me say that test-taking skills can raise your scores, even on IQ tests. You probably already know some of the following. In any case, whether to learn something new or as a reminder, here are some ways to score higher on the next test you take.
Get good sleep. Sleep deficiencies seem to affect response time more than accuracy, but then many tests are timed, so get that sleep.
Be prepared. If you can get a sample test, or a previous version, so you know what kind of questions will be on it, you'll be more likely to study the right things.
Arrive on time. In general, test-anxiety is bad for test scores. Time pressure adds to test-anxiety, so avoid it by being on time.
Avoid nervous test-takers. Anxiety can be contagious, so don't sit near others who are obviously stressed.
Ask about the test. The administrator of the test may be willing to tell you where most people have trouble, and you can remember to double-check answers in that part of the test, or watch for "trick" questions there.
Have a cup of coffee. In various studies it has been shown that people score higher on written tests after as little as a half-cup of coffee. This may not be true if you are are a very nervous person, however, so use your own judgment with caffeine.
Breath deep. Take several deep breaths and let the tension drain from your muscles.
Continue to take a deep breath now and then throughout the test, to keep the oxygen level in your brain up.
Focus on each question. Getting totally involved in one question, even for a moment, reduces anxiety. It is better if you don't think about the other questions while working on the current one.
Take notes. If you are allowed to take notes, write down any information you might forget. This can be especially useful if you "crammed" for the test just before taking it.
Read instructions. Points are often lost because the instructions weren't followed.
Plan your time. Quickly review the test when you receive it and plan how much time to take for each section, allowing several minutes for reviewing the test afterwards.
Answer easier questions first. This gets your confidence up and is like a warm-up for the rest of the test.
Skip tough questions and return later. This is especially important on timed tests. You don't want to leave five easy questions unanswered because of time spent on a tough one.
Determine the test makers intent. If an answer seems too easy, and you are sure it's wrong, look for a similar answer. Test makers often try to catch sloppy test takers with answers that are close in appearance. Look for any other clues to intent when you are unsure of the right answer.
Answer all questions. Unless there is a penalty for a wrong answer (as opposed to an unanswered question), you should guess on questions you are unsure about. On multiple choice tests, eliminate as many unlikely answers as you can and pick one of the remaining ones. You might get half of these questions correct with this method.
Don't leave until the time is up. You may feel that you have done everything you can do, but why not use any leftover time to review the test once more? There may be a simple mistake that you can correct.
Studying is certainly the best way to score higher on a test. On the other hand, no matter how much you study, you know that other factors play a role too. Why not apply a bit of proper preparation and a few good test taking skills too?