TEST TAKING STRATEGIES
Multiple Choice | Problem Solving | Pacing
- Read the directions carefully.
- Know how much time is allowed to finish each section of the test.
- Look for the central idea of each question. What is the main point?
- Look for helpful key words like always, never, none, except, most, least. Underline key words.
- Eliminate options you know to be incorrect.
- Question options that contain negative or absolute words. Try substituting a qualified term for the absolute one, like frequently for always; or typical for every to see if you can eliminate it.
- Regarding the "All of the above" choice: If you know two of three options seem correct, "all of the above" is a strong possibility.
- Use hints from questions you know to answer questions you do not.
- Remember that you are looking for the best answer, not only a correct one, and not one which must be true all of the time, in all cases, and without exception.
- Mark an answer for every question. You may lose credit by guessing incorrectly, but an unanswered question will cost you credit automatically.
- If time allows, review both questions and answers. It is possible you mis-read questions the first time.
Problem Solving
When you work through a problem, ask yourself three questions:
- What are you being asked to find?
- What do you need to know in order to find this?
- What are you already given on the problem to help you with your search?
After working through the problem, look back at what it asked you to find. Does your answer cover it? If not, go through the three questions again.
See AlgebraHelp.com for further problem solving strategies for algebra.
Pacing
Remember to pace yourself throughout the tests. Your instructor will record the amount of time left for each section on the board while an HSA test is being administered. You should be aware of your time and work accordingly. Below is the time schedule for each test:
High School Assessments Test Timing Schedule |
Content Area |
Session 1 |
Break |
Session 2 |
Break |
Session 3 |
English |
50 min |
5 min |
50 min |
5 min |
50 min |
Biology |
45 min |
5 min |
45 min |
5 min |
45 min |
Algebra |
50 min |
5 min |
50 min |
5 min |
50 min |
|
LINKS
Biology
Algebra
English
HSA Prep Online
HSA Exams (MD Department of Education)
Multiple Choice Test-Taking Tips
Test-Taking Strategies
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