Examination Tips

Below is a list of helpful things to keep in mind as you prepare for and then sit for one of the examinations:

• Try to avoid situations that would trigger emotions such as worry, anger, depression, and lack of confidence right before the test day. These emotions interfere with memory and are sometimes called "memory thieves."
• Get a good night's sleep the night prior to the examination.
• Over-study a bit to build self-confidence and to remind yourself just how much you know, but don't study so much that you go to the examination site in a state of exhaustion.
• Avoid Stimulants. Stimulants can make you so wide awake that you may miss the point on some test items. Also, avoid tranquilizers, if your health condition permits. It is better to be a bit nervous before an examination than to be drowsy.
• Follow directions! If you read them too quickly, you may miss something important.
• Read each item very carefully. Don't jump to conclusions based upon a quick skimming of the wording.
• See if you can answer the item before looking at the four (4) response options.
• Never think you have immediately spotted the correct response. "Back into" the correct response by first eliminating the incorrect choices.
• Answer each item - guess if necessary. Your score is based upon the number of items you respond to correctly. There is no penalty for guessing.
• If you are not sure of an answer, look for clues in the item and even in the choices. If you are able to eliminate some options, your chances of being correct if guessing are improved.
• Use your time wisely. Take the items in order, but don't waste time worrying about those you cannot answer with certainty. Guess intelligently, select an answer, and if you have time at the end return for a second look. By then, you may have remembered something, or had a memory "jogger."
• Read the Candidate Information Bulletin. It is important that you understand administrative details about examination admission, examination rules, registration procedures, identification, score reporting, etc. Being familiar with these details will reduce your anxiety.