Here is a great Checklist for answering Essay Questions from Tennesse State University:

Use the following as a guide when writing answers to discussion questions and as a checklist after you have written your answer.

1. Do I really understand what the question asks me to do?
2. Have I done any preliminary planning of my major points?
3. From reading the first sentence of my answer, does the reader know both what the question is and how I will develop my answer?
4. Do the major points stand out?
5. Are the major points supported with examples and facts?
6. Are there clear transitions between the major points?
7. Would someone who has not taken this class be able to understand the concept discussed in the way I explained it?
8. Have I completely covered all major points needed to answer the question?
9. Did I stick to the question?
10. Have I concluded with a summary statement?
11. Did I proofread for misspelled words, sentence fragments, run-on sentences, comma splices, subject-verb or pronoun/antecedent agreement errors, and other errors that might prevent the reader from understanding what I have written?
12. Is my handwriting readable, and have I left enough space for comments or additions?

It is common to have test anxiety because the tests count towards whether or not you pass the class or course. In fact, those people who do not have anxiety about taking tests tend to do worse, as it does not matter to them whether or not they do well. It is stated in many studies that a certain degree of test anxiety is good as it will sharpen your senses and make you more alert during the test. The problem is, having too much anxiety or worrying too much can harm your test score. As your anxiety rises, your memory may start to fail, causing you to forget all the things you learned.
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Ever hear about those who do not have to study for a test that is because they begin thinking about it long before they enter the test room. The test wise student makes a profile of the format of the test and the characteristics of the teacher. When they prepare for a test, they do not read and memorize every detail in their notes. They study specific information, in a specific way, for every type of test. They also make sure to take the time to work on themselves mentally, emotionally and physically to give their all for high marks.
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While fill-in-the-blank test questions are not common on standardized tests, it is a form of testing that many teachers use. Along with fill-in-the-blank questions, you may even have short answer questions on many of your tests, and there are strategies you can use to accurately answer these types of questions.
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Part 2 in our continuing series on Multiple Choice. See Part 1 here

4. Having Problems Choosing? Choose the One that is Closest to the Right Answer

Multiple-choice tests are quick and simple. Select the answer that is the closest to being correct.

A multiple-choice test that is well designed will give clues in the question that will help you to recognize an answer that is the best choice. If you are stuck, re-read the question and look for the clues.

Be alert and don’t fall for traps. Read all of the choices first.
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