Preparing for an Online Exam: Test Preparation Strategies

Online exams differ greatly from in-class tests, from the testing conditions to the materials you have available. Below are strategies to help you use your testing environment and study notes to their fullest extent.

1. Know exactly what will be covered and what kinds of questions will be asked. Practice tests, if provided, will be your best source of information.
2. Begin your study-review preparation far in advance of the test.
3. Take all comprehension checks, progress tests, and practice tests. For each question missed, find the relevant information in your text and read to locate the correct answer. Make a note in the margin using a different color of ink to call attention to this information. You need to correct your thinking, and this will require extra attention.
4. Work with a tutor to help clarify "muddy" concepts.
5. Organize your review so you have time to study everything. This includes text chapters, study guide exercises and progress checks, online lectures, online readings, summary outlines, lists of terms, sample problems, charts and graphs, practice exams.
6. Mark your textbook and online reading printouts to identify key information so it can be easily found. Your online tests are open book, but since most exams are timed you must organize your materials ahead of time.
7. Reserve time before taking the exam for a last, once-through review.
8. Take a break before starting the exam so you are rested and thinking clearly.
9. Make sure your environment is distraction, interruption free. Alert others that you need the designated amount of time to complete your test and cannot be interrupted.

(SOURCE : swccd.edu)