Testing 101: How to Choose the Right Answer

In my last article I presented four time-management tips that, if practiced, will result in higher test scores on the TerraNova test, or on any test. In this article, I will suggest seven practices that will help students choose the right answer when testing.

1. Distinguish Between Correct and Almost-Correct Answers

Typically, the correct answer on an achievement test does not stand out from all the other possible answers.  Achievement tests are constructed in such a way as to present answer choices that are similar, reasonable, or logical. This being the case, students should pay close attention to what the test item is asking so that errors in logic or carelessness do not result in a wrong answer.

For instance, on math tests an answer to a multiplication problem could be the result you would get if you added instead of multiplying.

2. Read the Answers to Yourself Silently

Students should “try out” the answers by repeating the question and the various answer choices to themselves. Carefully read word for word and avoid adding words that have been deliberately left out to make an item incorrect.

3. Consider Every Choice

It’s not uncommon for students to choose the first or second choice because it looks right.  Again, because answers are typically similar, guard against impulsivity and take the time to consider every answer choice before choosing an answer.

4. Eliminate Unreasonable or Unlikely Answer Choices

Students should eliminate answer choices that could not possibly be correct.  Doing so will increase the likelihood that an “educated guess” will prove correct if they do not positively know the right answer.

5. Avoid Random Guessing

When ample time remains on the test, students should take the time to work or think through the item when faced with two plausible answers.

6. Anticipate the Correct Answer

If working through math problems, remember that in addition or multiplication problems, the answer is always larger than the numbers added or multiplied.  In subtraction, the answer is always smaller than the top number.

7. Read all Directions and Identify Key Words or Symbols

When working through a vocabulary test where directions and tasks change frequently, students should not skip reading directions because they “know what to do.”  Tasks that appear identical (like identifying words that mean the same) may actually be different (like identifying words that are opposites).  Only by reading each set of directions can students be sure.

In math, certain terms imply various operations which if applied, will yield the correct answer.  Usually in a story problem, the words “in all” or “all together” indicate addition is the operation to be used.  Likewise, the words “difference” or “were left” indicate that subtraction is the operation to be used.

Want to practice the above using one of our practice tests? We have two to practice with: The One Hour Practice Test and Achieving Peak Performance. Both are available as instant downloads so you can start preparing immediately!

Thanks for reading!

Curt Bumcrot, MRE

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