We all know the basics of preparing for tests; start studying early, don’t cram, find a study buddy, etc.
These strategies are all well and good for the normal student, but what about those of us who want to rise above the crowd? It is getting more and more competitive out there so you need to increase your scores, but how?
To take your test-taking skills to the next level, you will need to implement speed reading, visualization, and test strategy skills.
When you add these tools to your normal test preparation you will see great results. These skills should only be used if you have the basics of test preparation understood. By constant application of these tools you can see long term results.
First, speed reading has been used for many years for lots of different purposes. It comes especially in handy when preparing for an exam.Speed reading allows you to cover vast amounts of information quickly and easily. By being able to cover material quickly you can have time to go over the material several times.
There are lots of great speed reading courses out there. Find one you like and try putting this skill into use right away.
Another tool to add is visualization. Visualizing how you do on your exam has been shown to help improve your grades. Try to start this several weeks ahead of time, but even doing this a few days before the exam helps too.
To do visualization, just run through your mind how the exam room will look. Try to fill in as many details in your mind as possible when doing this. What temperature is the room? What time of day is it?
Visualize yourself being calm and relaxed throughout the exam and confidently answering each question correctly. Just a few minutes a couple of times a day can work wonders.
Having a good test strategy is the final step in taking your test preparation to the next level. There are lots of resources on the internet about strategies for different types of exams, ranging from multiple choice to essay. It is best to start working on your test taking strategy a week before the exam.
By combining a few more tools like speed reading, visualization, and test strategy, you can take your grade to the next level.
In today’s competitive world a few extra points and mean the difference of getting into the schools of your choice or getting that degree.
