Testing Strategies

The following general test-taking strategies are intended to help students do their best on the PSAE tests:

1. Before taking the test, be sure that you understand the directions for each of the tests.
2. Read each question carefully so that you understand what the question is asking.
3. Try to answer questions in less time than those given in the table so there will be time to answer more difficult questions and review your answers.
4. Answer the easy questions first and skip over the more difficult questions.
5. Answer the more difficult questions next.
6. Answer every question during the time allowed; there is no penalty for guessing.
7. If time is available after answering all the items in a test, go back and check your work on that test.
8. Be precise in marking your answers on your answer sheet.  The question that you are answering should match the number of the line of ovals on your answer sheet.  Erase all unintended marks completely.
9. Transfer a block of answers to your answer sheet at a time.

These are some suggestions to pass along to students the day or two before the test:

1. Be confident in your ability to do well on the test.  You can do well.  Be prepared to work hard on the tests.
2. Eat a good breakfast.
3. Get plenty of rest the night before the test so you will be in the best physical condition to take it.
4. Plan to arrive at the gym promptly at 8:00 a.m. for the test session so you will have time to be seated without feeling rushed.
5. Dress comfortably and in layers so that you will be comfortable in a variety of temperatures.
6. Bring you ID, several #2 pencils with erasers, and a calculator you know how to use.
7. Wear a watch to keep track of your time.