How to take and pass a test the first time

Having trouble passing tests? It’s probably not because you don’t know the subject. Most of the tests are poorly written and not all questions have a relation to the real world! Having taken dozens of tests and exams, I can tell you from experience that there are 3 keys and 10 tips to successful test taking.

Most self-help articles on taking tests focus on taking the test itself: getting enough sleep, etc. This is not the place to start. While what you do on test day is important, and we’ll talk about it here, it’s not nearly as important as what you do in the weeks and days leading up to your test.

The key to passing the exam is proper preparation. Not just prepare; proper preparation. Yes, I know you’ve already heard that. But think about the last test you failed the first time. Was it because you weren’t smart enough? No. Was it because you did not have reasonable knowledge? Probably not. It was because you didn’t prepare properly. Not preparing properly can mean not knowing which book to read; not taking the time to research sample questions; not understanding what the questions are like and who wrote them. Not realizing that even though you know the topic, the exam questions are crazy, made up to trick you, or don’t even relate to the topic being tested. This is what you should do.

1. RESEARCH. Start on the internet and research prep classes on your topic. If you are going to become a construction contractor, you will write it down and make notes of what you find. Assuming you have already filled out the application to take the test, now you need to research the best class to take. You can also find many classes online.

2. DECISIONS. From your research notes, choose the best class. You may need to call the instructor and ask for testimonials from former students. Try to find out how the students did on the test.

3. DISCIPLINE. You have your course and sample questions. Take the time to create a daily study schedule. I can’t overemphasize this. Did you know that over 50% of those who take online courses never sign up for an ID and password? Proper preparation means follow through. Even if you take a local classroom prep class, you should study the materials before taking the test. Carve out some time for yourself and reward yourself after each session. Be realistic about how much you can accomplish.

Don’t underestimate the ability of the test you are about to take to be completely different from what you thought it would be. If you prepare thoroughly with the tips provided here and get a 90 on the sample exams, you will pass the exam. Follow my 10-step methodology:

1. Research prep classes and choose one to follow.

2. Through prep classes or through Internet research, get sample exams to take.

3. Take the actual exam no more than 1 week after the intensive preparation, and preferably within a few days.

4. Decompress the day before the exam and relax.

5. Get to the test center early and spend 30 minutes in the parking lot going over the highlighted or tabbed areas you were having trouble with.

6. On the test, think like the question writer. Make sure you read and understand the question before answering.

7. Review and answer everything you know cold first.

8. Next, attack those you don’t know. Eliminate answers that don’t make sense to narrow down your choices.

9. Do not change answers unless you are 100% sure that the first answer you gave was wrong.

10. No matter how you feel when you leave the test, go celebrate that you took it!

I have used this methodology on Coast Guard exams, Six Sigma Master Black Belt exams, Construction General Contractor exams, Airframe and Engine exams, Home Inspector exams, Certified Engineer exams, etc. , and works. Preparation and confidence with sample questions is key.

Do these methods take time and money? Yes! Getting your credential is worth it. GOOD LUCK.