by Christina Xu
We’ve probably all related to the picture above to some
level before as we embark on the standardized testing journey. However, it
doesn’t have to be that way. Whether or not you believe standardized testing is
fair, necessary, or representative of your abilities, you’re still going to
have to prepare.
So how do you prepare? I’ve compiled a list of steps that I
believe to be essential to any successful endeavor– of course, everyone learns
differently, but try to incorporate some of these elements in your study plan
of essentially any standardized testing of any level.
1. Have a plan! You can’t do much without
a plan of action and especially is the case with these sort of tests. You’ve
probably heard it many times, but once again, these tests are often very formulaic
and repetitive, so being organized is essential for success. I suggest blocking
out hours in advance where you can sit down without distractions and focus on
completing a whole test or a couple sections; essentially, you want to have
goals to reach in order to keep motivation up. Plans, goals, and landmarks are
the best way to accomplish something you may otherwise not be so keen to do.
2. Be motivated! Standardized testing is
probably not your favorite thing to do on a saturday morning, but let’s face
it, it’s something you have to do. There are many ways to stay motivated,
whether it’s thinking about college, the future, or just getting the worst part
of junior year over with, a drive is essential to doing well. Think of it this
way: the more motivation you have for doing it, the faster and more efficient
you tend to be, and, thus, the more successful you are bound to be.
3. Practice, Practice, Practice! This
seems to be the catchphrase for any standardized testing “how-to guide,” but
there really isn’t a better way to put it. Take it from someone who has learned
from experience that the best, and possibly only, way to combat this formulaic
test is by understanding the formula. And the only way to achieve that is by
practicing old tests, similar questions, and the like. It may take everyone a
different amount of time to achieve the final product (aka your goal), but just
know that as long as you are practicing, you will get there.
These are very general and quite applicable tips for really
any testing scenario, but especially standardized testing. In the end, you’re
going to want to find a path or plan that fits you, and continuously work for
it. Try to spread your workload out, try to destress and relax when you do
practice, and try to have a little fun with it sometimes! It doesn’t have to be
the most terrifying 4 hours of your life– instead, look at it as an opportunity
to show colleges (or other organization) your worth in just one small part the
process as a whole. Good luck!
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