Test Taking Tip: Answer the Question in Your Own Words First
Formulate an answer in your own words before reading the answer options.
It will help “activate” memories relevant to the topic before you read the answers.
When you read the answer options, you’ll be less distracted by incorrect answers that “sound correct” or “look like the right one.” There are quite a few distractors that look good, but are actually incorrect, so you’ll need to rely on your active recall strategies instead of recognition.
If you can’t come up with a precise answer, try to recall some facts, terms, or other information relevant to the topic addressed by the question.
If the stem is too vague and doesn’t provide enough information to help you identify an answer or relevant terms, skim the answer options to orient yourself to the topic being asked about. Once you identify the topic, come up with your own answer before carefully re-reading and considering each answer.
