Are you concerned that final exams might pull down your GPA? Check out these “tried-and-true” tips for improving your performance on multiple-choice questions.
- Tip #1: Arrive prepared, relaxed, and confident
- Tip #2: Perform a quick survey of your exam
- Tip #3: Tackle challenging multiple-choice questions strategically
Book an appointment with an academic skills advisor at the Academic Skills Centre.
Arrive prepared, relaxed, and confident
- Avoid the temptation to “cram” the night before by giving yourself a good rest instead.
- If possible, do something relaxing one hour before your exam.
- Dress comfortably, eat a light snack, use the washroom, and arrive early to your exam location.
- Bring required supplies as well as a watch to track your time.
- Maintain a relaxed and confident outlook by setting aside negative thoughts. Read more on this topic on UVic Learn with the article Managing stress during exams.
- If you have a paper-based exam, keep your eyes on yours and label all booklets used with your first and last name and V number.
Perform a quick survey of your exam
- Complete a quick scan of your exam before starting in.
- Quickly calculate how much time to allocate to different parts.
- Read the directions carefully and underline key words.
- Warm-up by answering a few easy multiple-choice questions first. Then complete questions with the greatest assigned values.
Tackle challenging multiple-choice questions strategically
- Once you’ve completed some of the easier multiple choice questions circle back to more difficult multiple-choice questions.
- Write legibly and use all of your allotted time to check over your answers.
To learn more about this topic and to get help
Book a free in-person or online appointment with an academic skills advisor at the Academic Skills Centre!