Test-taking Triumph by Taylor

Test-taking Triumph by Taylor - January 2014 Scholarship Essay

Studying is important in order to be as successful as I have been throughout my high school career. I have had to develop excellent methods for studying. These methods differ based upon the subject. For example, I would not study for a math test in the same ways that I would study for history. My Advanced Placement classes have also impacted my study techniques as my score on the exam at the end of the course determined whether I would get college credit. So far, I have been extremely successful on Advanced Placement exams, with a score of four, meaning “well qualified”, on all three exams I have taken: World History, American History, and Literature and Composition. I also have a 4.25 grade point average and a 31 on the ACT to add to my achievements. I can attribute my success to my ability to prepare myself through the study skills that I have. Through attending study groups, using outlines and notecards, and using online databases of practice questions, I have become a triumphant test-taker.

Study groups allow me to collaborate with people in my classes to help prepare for tests. We go over material together, including our notes and any study material that the teacher has provided. This method is beneficial because if one student does not understand a certain concept, there is almost always another person there that can help. Study group has been especially helpful in my Advanced Placement Chemistry class, as that material is often complex and slightly confusing. I recently completed my first semester of chemistry and earned an A, a fact that I am very proud of. I can trace this back to the many hours spent at study group.

Using outlines and notecards has also been a very useful study technique. Before every math or science test, I always make a notecard with any formulas that are useful. This way, I have all of the important information in one place, written in a way that makes it easy to memorize. I also use flash cards for vocabulary in my Advanced Placement Government class. Flash cards are also idea for quick memorization. For history tests, outlines are generally the best study tool. I enjoy making outlines because, to me, they are the most logical way to organize information. These methods make my studying streamlined and organized, promoting testing success.

Using my resources, especially online, also helps me study. Taking practice tests found online, especially for Advanced Placement classes, has made all the difference in multiple situations. Practice Advanced Placement tests also help to prepare for the AP exam at the end of the year. By completing practice tests correctly, I can be sure that I am ready for the real thing. Taking practice tests is generally the final step in my studying routine. Once I have done well on a practice test, I know that I can do the same on the real thing.

All of these test taking skills are beneficial for different classes and different types of tests. I use them all on a consistent basis, and it has helped me to be successful. I plan to continue to use these test taking skills throughout college. Through attending study groups, making notecards and outlines, and using my resources, I have become a great test-taker. Study skills are important, and I am glad that I have found multiple methods that work for me.