PQRST

The PQRST Method. This five step process helps you synthesize reading materials and prepare for a test. This is a good to do with study partner or group, but you could do it on your own. Begin this process several days before the exam.

1) Preview: look over the course syllabus, your written notes, and the headings and sub-headings of the assigned reading. This provides an overview of the content and concept you will be studying.

2)Question: develop a list of questions, including those

- Created from the headings and subheadings in the reading

- From your written notes

- Discussed in class

- Provided at the end of chapters

- Given on the study guide (if one is provided)

- That you have about the topic

*For example, if a major heading or subheading is "phase of the moon" then ask yourself, what are the phases of the moon.

3)Read: Read the assigned reading and your written notes, and look for answers to your study questions. Headings and subheadings should help guide your search. Keep an eye out for other information to add to your list of questions. Reflect on what you read, and connect new materials to what you already know.

4)State: in your own words, say aloud and/or write down the answers to your study questions. Use mnemonic devices, concepts such as diagrams, analogies, and/or other study strategies to aid your memory and understanding in this process. A list of study strategies is provided on handout 3.10.3.

5) Test: Answer your study questions without looking at your notes or reading, and then check to see if your answers are correct and complete. Your brain needs to absorb and apply new information, so test and retest over several study sessions.

7 Tips for Taking Tests

Try the following 7 test-king tips on your next quiz or test:
1. Skim over the test, and estimate the amount of time you will spend on each section.
2. Read the directions carefully. What are you being asked to?
3. For multiple choice questions, read and answer the choice before marking your answer.
4. If you are not sure of the answer, read the choices again. If you are still not sure, move on to the next question. After answering the questions you are sure of, go back to any you have skipped.
5. Eliminate the answer choice that you know are wrong. Then choose your answer from the ones that remain.
6. When you asked to fill in blanks, substitute one of the choices into the blank at a time, and read the resulting sentence(s). Which choice sounds right?
7. For your essay question, first jot down the main points you want to make, and use these as an outline for your essay. Afterwards, read it through. Does your answer make sense, and is it reasonably complete?