Test Taking Tips

Introduction

Get the inside on how to crack computer based certification tests from those who have years of experience developing computer assisted learning software...

Preparing for the Exam

These certification exams check your knowledge and experience on their subject. So the best way to get through is to learn and master each and every aspect of the product/subject and get hands on experience on it. You should follow these steps to prepare for any such certification exam:

• Identifying the exam objectives: for that you need to go through the product vendors site because these objectives keep on changing from time to time.
• Study the suggested reading material and make sure you understand everything and also perform the tasks they suggest.
• If you feel the need, you can also go for instructor-led or online training courses.
• Nothing beats a test better than taking it beforehand. Buy good test simulation software and test your skills on it.
• Register for the test at least two weeks before, this helps in building the tempo.

Before the test

• Be confident and relaxed.
• Sleep well the night before the exam.
• Arrive early at the test center with at least two forms of identification.
• If you need a quick drink of water or a visit to the restroom, take time before the exam, because once started the exam will not be paused for these needs.

At the Testing center

• You will be asked to present your ID and sign the log as you arrive at the testing center.
• The center in-charge will explain the rules that you have to follow during the exam and will ask you to sign a paper stating that you understand the rules of the exams and will follow them.
• You are not allowed to take in any sort of written or printed material with you to the exam. You will be provided with the scratch paper, pencils and anything you need for the exam.
• Before the test you will have an opportunity to take a practice exam that is not related with the subject but will give you an orientation of the exam process.
• If you have any problem regarding the testing process you can ask the test administrator.

Test Taking Approach

• As you start the test be calm and read the question and ALL its options carefully even if you think you know the answer.
• If you are taking an adaptive test REMEMBER you will not get a chance to change your answer once you move on, so be sure before you mark the answer. In a linear test you will have a chance to change the answer.
• If you know the answer, answer the question and move on, if you are not sure still mark your best guess and move on. If it is a linear test, you should also book mark the question so that you can return to it afterwards.
• Sometimes related questions also provide answer for the questions you were unsure of, so it is always a good idea to book mark the question.
• If you are unsure of the correct answer, read all options and eliminate options that are obviously wrong. Then choose from the options left.
• Once you finished answering all the questions, check the time left. If you have time, review the book marked questions.
• Never leave a question unanswered. All certification tests that we know are timed and count unanswered questions as wrong. If you don't have time, take a blind guess.