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Study Exam Types
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An exam is fast approaching and you’re stressed. It’s not that you’re worried about your ability to learn the content, its just that you’re not a good test taker. What to do?
- The first thing you should do is pinpoint exactly what type of exam you will be taking.
Before you can focus on what areas to study in detail or to skim over you need to know what type of content on the exam your teacher will be asking for. The type of exam a teacher uses tests your knowledge of the content you were taught by them in a specific way. Below are some of the types of exams teachers use to test student knowledge – essay, multiple choice, short and long answer question, open book and open note exams, problem or case based exams and oral exams. In addition, I have identified two steps necessary for doing well on a test. I would argue that a student – regardless of whether they are in HS or college – should know:
- Type of knowledge tested, &
- How to complete the exam.
In addition, I have included two sets of advice – my own and advice from my source. The source cited for this post is The University of Newcastle, Australia website’s Surviving First Year online resource.
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General listing of Exam Types
- Essay - Type of knowledge tested: How much content you know about a subject. The more you know the subject and the more details you can provide the better your score will be. How to complete the exam: Your answer must be written in essay format. You need an introduction, a body & conclusion.
University of Newcastle: Summarize your notes and outline key terms that will help you remember the content of your notes.
Resident Planning Geek’s Advice: Recall the terms your teacher continually referred to in class that pertain to the subject of your exam. Your teacher wants you to pay attention to those terms. Chances are your teacher will include those terms on your exam.
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- Multiple Choice – Type of knowledge tested: ‘Rely on recognition rather than recall.’ You need to know the material thoroughly so that when it’s provided as an answer you know exactly which answer to select. How to complete the exam: Example #1: Cover up the answers and guess the correct answer. Uncover the answers and see if what you guessed is an option. Example #2: Cancel out wrong answers first by identifying what is completely incorrect. Narrow down your answers this way.
University of Newcastle: Know that multiple choice questions involve three parts. Firstly, a statement or stem; secondly, the question; and thirdly, a set of possible answers – only one of which is correct, while the others are distractions. The candidate is asked to circle or tick the correct answer to the question.
Resident Planning Geek’s Advice: Read your notes. Study with a friend. Ask each other specific questions based on notes from your class lecture, homework, and quizzes. Switch turns asking and answering. Try to cover as much as possible. If you study alone try using flash cards. Write specific answers on your flash cards and work your way through the deck. Also try recording yourself as you study aloud. Replay the audio to help you retain answers. (Audio works for me =)
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- Short & Long Answer: Type of knowledge tested: Detailed information including a definition and a supporting detail or example. How to complete the exam: Provide as much detail in your answers as possible. Refer back to textbook and classroom discussions for assistance when taking this exam.
University of Newcastle: When you get the exam immediately begin writing down concepts and terms. Don’t write more than you are asked for; quality over quantity.
Resident Planning Geek’s Advice: Study with others. This type of learning can be intensive. Take breaks – you don’t want to burn out early.
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- Open Book & Take Home - Type of knowledge tested: Open-book and take-home exams examine your understanding of particular topics and usually focus on your ability to synthesize, apply and evaluate a range of material in depth. How to complete the exam: Your answers for exam questions should include the “issues/concepts/theories” that were covered in class.
University of Newcastle: Stay up to date on class work and readings.
Resident Planning Geek’s Advice: Don’t be too laid back about this type of exam. Sometimes a teacher wants more comprehensive answers for a take home than for an in class exam. 1). Make sure that your essays are well developed and fluid rather than choppy. 2). Avoid misspellings. 3). Pay special attention to multiple choice questions. You are being given extended time to complete the exam. Questions might be trickier and require more thoughtful analysis. 4). Double check your definitions. Give the correct definition phrased in your own words.
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- Problem or Case BasedType of knowledge tested: “mathematical problems that require the use of equations, formula, or the application of scientific theories (such as those used in the disciplines of statistics, chemistry, engineering and physics).” Case-based exams require that you refute or support a position by providing evidence that supports your claim. How to complete the exam: You must know the equations, formula, or the application of scientific theories, as well as have an in depth understanding of the case-based arguments you are being tested on.
University of Newcastle: It is very important that you demonstrate the process you used to answer the question. Read questions and scenarios carefully and don’t rush into answers.
Resident Planning Geek’s Advice: Learn the formulas as you are being taught them in class. Ask questions in class or after class – what ever makes you feel comfortable. If you chose to do so after class write down your question as soon as it becomes a thought so that you don’t forget it by the end of class. Try not to be embarrassed when you do ask the question. It’s okay – if you don’t ask when you’re confused you’ll never get clarity on what you don’t understand. Also, for this exam in particular, avoid waiting until two days before the exam to cram formulas. Exam day might come and you might know small parts of all the formulas, but you don’t know any complete formulas. That would be a bummer. These types of exams require that you know the complete formula to get the complete points for each problem.
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- Oral – Type of knowledge tested: ‘test your knowledge through spoken interaction between you and examiners.” How to complete the exam:“Dress and act professionally.” “Interpret the question.” “Make use of your memory joggers and consult your notes if allowed.” “Avoid brief ‘yes’ or ‘no’ responses unless this is specifically requested.”
University of Newcastle: Practice answering questions with friends. Pay attention to your posture, eye contact, and clarity of speech. List issues in point form. (Great point. )
Resident Planning Geek’s Advice: Regarding content: I would tackle this exam like I would an essay exam. You need to start your oral presentation with an intro, and your speech must have a body, and a conclusion. You need to address in your speech the specific subject you are being tested on, as well as your interpretation (if required). You need to include terms that your teacher has referred to before. Regarding delivery: Practice before other people, practice in front of the mirror, have friends ask you questions – and try relaxation techniques. Practice breathing calmly and practice speaking normally rather than nervously chopping up your words.
© W. S. Hughes 2009
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