Transcript Basic Rules for Test Taking Success

Basic Rules for Test Taking
Success
Adelita G. Cantu, PhD, RN
05-06-03
Rule 1: Know the Parts of a Test
Question & How to Read Them
• A background
statement
• A stem
• A list of options
(keyed response &
distractors)
• Need all to make the
best choice
Rule 2: Read the Question Carefully Before
Looking at the Options, Identify Key Words in the
Stem
• The stem is the heart
of the item
• Look for key words
there
• Common error is to
miss the word
except, best,
always, never, etc
• Key words are
primary, first, initial,
early, most important,
except
Rule 3: Identify Theme of the Item & Base it on
Information Provided in the Stem
• Don’t jump to
conclusions; never
assume information
that is not given
• What is appropriate
for one patient; may
not be appropriate
here
Rule 4: Answer Difficult Questions by Eliminating
Obviously Incorrect Responses First
• Then select the best
of the remaining
options
• This will help sharpen
your focus
• If all seem right, skip
it and return to it later
Rule 5: Select Responses That Are Therapeutic
• Select responses that
communicate acceptance
• Eliminate bizarre,
inappropriate & punitive
responses
• Use as a guide the
principles of interpersonal
& therapeutic
relationships “accept the
patient as he or she is”
Rule 6: Know the Basic Principles That Guide the
Practice of Nursing
•
•
•
•
•
Nursing process
Accept the patient
Safety
Education
Therapeutic
communication &
actions
Rule 7: Look for Patterns in Your
Performance
• Analyze your test taking
behaviors
• Establish strategies to
correct
• Common ones are: read
into question; used
incorrect rationale for
selecting response;
changed the answer;
missed the key word, &
did not read all distractors
Rule 8: Manage Your Time
Effectively During Test Taking
• Think one minute per
question (practice)
• Stop distractors
• Don’t worry about
people finishing early,
this is not a race!
• Concentrate on
yourself
Rule 9: Do Not Change Answers Without Good
Reason or Sound Rationale
• Your 1st instinct is
usually logical &
systematic
• Deciding to change is
usually driven by
anxiety &
nervousness rather
than sound, rational
thought
• Are you a second
guesser?
Rule 10: Choose Option That Are Within the
Realm of Nursing
• Nursing & physician
judgment
• Action oriented
questions are based
on clinical situations
that require nursing
judgment