Multiple Choice Methods

Multiple Choice Methods
Section 1: The Five Methods For Test Taking Success
Method 1: �Look For Meticulous Phrasing
Method 2: �Use Common Sense
Method 3: �Recognize The Twin Towers
Method 4: �When In Doubt, Pick C
Method 5: �Deal With All Or None Of The Above
Section 2: Even More Test-Taking Techniques
Trick Questions
Two Best Answers
Changing Your First Answer
Either Or Neither
True-False Test
Unfamiliar Answers
Questions With Dates
Answering Equation Questions
One-Word Answers
Avoiding A Random Guess
Finding The Answer Below
The Right Answer To The Wrong Question
Section 3: Code Cracking Study Strategies
Review The Course Syllabus
Pay Attention To Lectures
Review Past Tests
Study Concepts
Practice Questions
Keep Course Quizzes
Create Your Own Flash Cards
Get Plenty Of Rest
Section 4: Last-Minute Prep Tips For Cracking The Code
Mastering Multiple Choice Tests Introduction
The fact is, there is a method to mastering exams. Everyone at some point or another feels unprepared for their big exam, so take these strategies to heart and use them every chance you get. You can learn this and excel as a test-taker, regardless of your reason for taking multiple choice tests.
Multiple Choice Methods
Most tests have a common principle behind them, something we call �patterning.� You can study all you want, but sometimes even the best memorization techniques will not beat the system behind the exam.
The first part of this book provides you with proven techniques that will help you reach the highest score possible. In the second section, you will develop your test-taking skills further by learning advanced strategies that researchers have found to be most effective against multiple choice exams.
In the final section, you will learn a few study tools and tips. Although you will not have to study hard using the methods in this guide, there are some �crack the code� methods you can adopt that will enable you to study better. When you combine these with your newly developed test-taking skills, you can conquer the world � or at least this exam.
Let�s begin by reviewing the specific methods that are commonly adopted by multiple choice test masters. These techniques are priceless. Using these techniques alone, you will find your test-taking skills improve exponentially.
Section 1: The Five Methods for Test Taking Success
There are certain strategies that all test writers have in common. If you master these and take nothing else away from this book, you will automatically become a better test-taker. These are the foundational methods that all writers use when creating multiple choice tests.
Method 1: �Look for Meticulous Phrasing
Great answers always sound �correct.� When in doubt, look for the answer that makes the most sense. A good multiple choice test writer will always provide two poorly-written answers and one or two answers that are phrased well. Eliminate the two answers that are poorly written. Of the remaining two choices, eliminate the least clear of the two. The best-phrased answer is always the right choice. For example, of the answers below, which would you select?
The term classical conditioning refers to a learning process:
A. Where responses are provided with stimuli.
B. Where individuals are associated with sequences.
C. That involves placing a neutral signal before a naturally occurring reflex.
D. That involves a natural reflex.
If you answered �C�, you are correct. Why? This answer is the most natural and well-phrased, although �A� is a close second. The key is to look for the BEST answer. However, responses cannot be provided with stimuli, and in �B�, individuals are not generally associated with sequences. Therefore, the best option is answer �C�.
Method 2: �Use Common Sense
Normally, when assessing a multiple choice answer, common sense is the key to your success. It is normal to want to choose the simplest and easiest answer. But often, the easiest answer is not the right answer. This is particularly true for math problems. If an answer seems too obvious, this is probably because the answer is incorrect. Cross this answer off your list.
Likewise, if you notice that two answers are very similar, the odds are very good that one of these answers is the best answer. Do your best to eliminate one of these to determine which of these is the best answer.
Method 3: Recognize the Twin Towers
If there are two answers that are very different from one another or are parallel but opposite to one another, cross these answers off your list; the odds are good that neither of these is the correct answer. These are likely there to distract you from the right answer.
Here is an example of Twin Towers in action:
A pendulum typically consists of a circle or other large object hanging from a string or cord. When the mass of the sphere doubles, what happens to the period of the pendulum?
A. It increases.
B. It decreases.
C. It remains the same.
D. More information is necessary to answer the question.
The answer to this question is �C,� the period remains the same. Two things happen here. First, you can cross the two parallel answers from your list. These are answers �A� and �B,� which cancel each other out. You are left with choices �C� and �D.� Of these, if you have to guess, the odds always favor answer �C.� Let�s learn more about this.
Method 4: When in Doubt, Pick C
There are lots of questions that are simply impossible to answer immediately. This is particularly true when taking standardized tests. For questions like this, rather than guess, your best bet is to answer �C.� Why? Research suggests that up to 32 percent of test questions use �C� as the answer. So, if you simply cannot answer a question, you are far better off answering with �C� than skipping the test question. If you can eliminate any possible wrong answers and are still left with �C� as a choice, go with �C�.
Method 5: �Deal with All or None of the Above
Most tests have a formula or template for questions with �all of the above,� �none of the above,� or �some of the above� choices. Many test writers will use a pattern that will have you answering �all of the above� most of the time or seldom. If you can determine this early on, you will be more confident of your answers.
Figure out whether the correct answer is �all of the above� or �none of the above� with a question or two you are confident about. That way, you will not feel that you are guessing for the remainder of the test. The choice for �all of the above� is most commonly used in K-12 testing.
By mastering these five simple strategies, you will sharpen your test-taking skills dramatically.
In the next section, we�ll talk more about how you can boost your studying techniques and about strategies for answering specific types of multiple choice questions. These strategies are more exclusive than the ones provided above.
Section 2: Even More Test-Taking Techniques
Now we�ll tackle some common test questions. You will learn how to begin to trust your gut when it comes to answering common multiple choice questions, including math questions, which can be challenging for some.
Trick Questions
Here is the truth about trick questions. Occasionally, you may run into a trick question. However, few test writers actually create trick questions. If you feel something is duplicitous, review the question and make sure you aren�t reading too much into it. They key here is to avoid overthinking the answer. Take the question for what it is and answer accordingly.
Two Best Answers
In cases where two answers seem best, imagine each answer as the correct one. If you can, visualize each answer as the best answer. Typically, you will see one answer as the best choice. You can also ask yourself whether one answer fully answers the question. If you find that one answer only partly answers the question, eliminate this answer. Remember, when answering questions, you are always in search of the BEST answer.
Changing Your First Answer
Many students have been taught that it is never okay to change their first answer. The truth is, you can change your answer IF you have a very good reason for doing so. Typically, students change their answers for bad reasons. So, when reviewing your test, make sure that you have a legitimate, factual reason for changing an answer. Guessing is not a good reason to change your answer.
Either or Neither
Either or neither is much like �all of the above.� You may run into this option, or a double negative. If you run into a double negative, create the equivalent of a positive statement. This will help you to eliminate the wrong answer. You can do the same for an either or neither question. Simply rephrase the question in a way that makes sense to you. This will make the question less confusing. In doing so, you have a better chance of answering the question correctly.
True-False Test
One way to eliminate false answers is to try a true-false test on questions. Simply apply a test to answers to see if the answer provides a �true� or �false� answer. This may also help you distinguish between two best answers. This is particularly true with absolutes. For example, if a true-false statement indicated that �All men born after 1953 were five times more likely to develop prostate cancer�, and you�re unsure if that statement is true, you should choose false due to the absolute nature of the statement. Surely there�s at least one man who disqualifies this statement, right?
Unfamiliar Answers
If there are answers containing terms or facts that are foreign to you, question whether they belong in your answer choices. They may be distractors, thrown into the choices to throw you off from the correct answer.
Questions with Dates
Answering questions with dates can be mind-numbing. While memorization may seem like the best solution, it is often not. Sometimes when you are left with options like 1940, 1941, 1942, and 1943, you end up forgetting the right answer, simply because the dates are too close together and your mind is already filled with too much information. Your best bet is often to select from two answers that you think are closest to the right answer, based on your knowledge.
Use any information that you have to assist you. For example, if you are asked a question regarding ancient history and one of your choices provides you with a date in the 1980s, you can automatically eliminate this choice and look for a date in the BC era. Make sense? Always use common sense when answering multiple choice questions. Most test writers use common sense when writing test questions. Keep this in mind.
Answering Equation Questions
When trying to figure out an equation that you are unfamiliar with, first eliminate any answers that contain terms that are not in the original equation. This will often eliminate one or two answers, leaving you with a better guessing ratio.
One-Word Answers
Often, the second-most difficult or technical answer, rather than the first, is the correct answer. If you find that you are faced with a list of words that are foreign to you, choose the second-most technical-sounding or complex word, rather than the first. While this may sound odd, it very often works.
The same is true of math questions. Often, the second-most complex equation or answer, rather than the first, is the correct answer.
This technique is very much like answering �C� most often. Once you get accustomed to answering multiple choice questions, you will begin to notice patterns and get into the habit of choosing the best answer to the questions placed before you.
Avoiding a Random Guess
The worst thing you can do on a multiple choice test is guess randomly. You will get a poor score. Always do your best to eliminate the worst choice and, if possible, the next least most likely answer. Remember some key points:
Eliminate poorly-phrased answers.
Eliminate answers with obvious mistakes.
Look for answers that include a word or two from the question, as these may be the correct answer.
Don�t overlook a simple solution to the question.
You have to read a question thoroughly to understand an answer. This is where understanding course context can come in handy.
Finding the Answer Below
If you aren�t sure about an answer, come back to it. You may find the answer (or hints to the answer) in another question. Often, multiple choice tests contain much of the course content. This is obvious, right? You are being tested on the course material. Scroll through the test and see what you can find.
You may, at the very least, be able to narrow down the answers to a question you are undecided about or are having trouble answering.
This is why it is a good idea to come back to questions you are not able to answer immediately. Don�t waste too much time on difficult questions. You can always come back to them later. Allocate your time appropriately. That way, you have enough time to get through the entire test once, then come back to questions you missed. You may find that you have the answer the second time through, simply by going through the entire test.
The Right Answer to the Wrong Question
Sometimes the answer is right, but it is the right answer to the wrong question. This is where it is important to read the question closely and carefully. This is also why it is important not to simply memorize facts. If you memorize information, you may recognize the right answer, but apply it to the wrong question.
This is a common technique used to determine whether you are actually applying the information correctly. Make sure that you are taking the time necessary to read through the information in the test.
If you are unsure, come back to the question later. Make sure the answer does not apply to a different question. This can cost you valuable points on an exam. Read through all of your options. Remember never to immediately pick the first answer that seems right. There may be a better answer.
In the next section, we�ll review some study tips. You can �crack the study code� to learn how to study efficiently, until taking a test becomes second nature. You don�t have to spend days or even hours studying. Once you combine your test-taking methods with your studying techniques, you will become a guru at test-taking.
Section 3: Code Cracking Study Strategies
Taking a multiple choice test is only half the battle. Preparation is also key. You don�t have to study for days on end to perform well on a multiple choice exam. In fact, we don�t recommend that you do. Sometimes you can store up so much information in your head that you forget the tough stuff.
It is sometimes best to just review the material that you learned in class prior to an exam. Here are some proven strategies for excelling on a standardized exam.
Review the Course Syllabus
Take some time to review your course syllabus. The odds are high that material for your exam will be pulled from this. Want to know how your teacher will select the main topics for your exam? Look at the syllabus.
Pay Attention to Lectures
Often during lectures, your professor will tell you what information will be included on exams. Listen closely when a professor says, �"This will be on the exam." As soon as you hear this, highlight the information. This makes test-taking easy.
Review Past Tests
Sometimes, past tests are available for a course. Try your local library or conduct an online search. You may even be able to find out from your professor if this information is available as study material. Use this information to become familiar with your instructor�s test writing style. You can find out whether your professor has a tendency to use �all of the above� questions or one-word questions. This will help you gain an edge over your competition.
Study Concepts
Memorizing facts is one way to learn, but trying to take in too much information can quickly bog you down. When the time comes to take a test, this information can become a jumble of dates, times, names, and numbers. Instead, take time to study concepts. Learn how the information you are learning in class is related. Study the subject matter and understand why the information is important. This will help you make critical decisions when test-taking time comes. Make sure you understand ideas and principles, so you can synthesize and analyze information on your exam.
Practice Questions
Take the time to answer the practice questions or exercises in your textbook, if this is an option. Doing so helps simulate the test taking experience. You will learn to make decisions about information and to select the best answer just as if you were sitting for the actual exam.
If there are multiple choice questions, answer them using the tips you learned previously.
Keep Course Quizzes
If you take quizzes throughout the year, keep them and review them. These will be life-savers during test-taking time, particularly for finals or exams that rehash concepts from a longer period of time.
Create Your Own Flash Cards
These can be a handy way to study small amounts of information in manageable chunks of time. Practice creating your own tests and quiz yourself on the content you�ve created.
Get Plenty of Rest
Nothing will destroy your test-taking ability faster than a poor night of sleep. Be sure that you get plenty of rest the night before your exam. While you may think it is a wonderful idea to stay up late studying for your exam, the chances are high this will severely affect your ability to perform well on any test.
It is much better for you to get a good night of sleep than to stay up late studying. A well-rested student will do much better than an exhausted student. This is true of any test, regardless of how much knowledge you have of test material.
Can it really be that easy? Yes, it can. You don�t have to study for hours on end to facilitate a smooth test-taking experience. Just adopt a few simple techniques and incorporate them into your test-taking practice. It really is that simple and easy.
Ready to crack the code some more? Let�s look at some last-minute strategies.
Section 4: Last-Minute Prep Tips for Cracking the Code
Here are some final pointers that will help you make the most of your examination.
Remember to plan ahead. Save some time to go back through your exam. You may find an answer to a question in the context of another question later in the exam.
Guess. You should when there is not a penalty for guessing and when you simply cannot employ any of the other strategies we discussed previously. Randomly guessing should be a last ditch effort.
Do not guess. If you are penalized for guessing, do not guess if you do not have a solid reason or cannot eliminate most of the wrong answers. Sounds contradictory, does it not? The point is, have a strategy.
Find hints throughout your test. Look for answers in the test to questions you skip, so you can make stronger guesses.
Change your first answers if need be. Only do so if you have a solid reason for doing so.
Look for the best answers. Keep in mind that you are always looking for the BEST answer, not a right answer. There is always the possibility that there is more than one possible answer.
Look for good phrasing. This helps you find the obvious best answers and eliminate poor answers.
When reviewing answers, look for obvious distractors. Usually there is at least one, which will eliminate wrong answers quickly and easily.
Eat something light before your test. Do not eat heavy foods that will bog you down and cause you to feel sleepy. Try something that will supply you with much-needed energy. A protein shake is a great idea.
Relax. Remember, you can do this!
With the test-taking tips in this guide, you will master your examination. Go into your test confidently. You can and will succeed!