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General Test-Taking Stratgies
The ASSET consists of tests in the areas of English, reading
and mathematics. Each of these tests contains multiple-choice
questions that offer either four or five answer choices from
which you are to choose the correct, or best, answer. The
following suggestions apply to tests in all four areas:
- Pace Yourself
The time limits set for each ASSET test give nearly everyone
enough time to finish all the questions. It is important
to pace yourself so you will not spend too much time on
one question.
- Read the Directions for Each Test Carefully
Before you begin taking one of the ASSET tests, read the
directions carefully. The English, reading and mathematics
tests ask for the "best" answer. Do not respond
as soon as you identify a correct answer. Read and consider
all of the answer choices, and choose the answer that best
responds to the question.
- The mathematics test asks for the "correct"
answer.
Read each question carefully to make sure you understand
the type of answer required. Then, you may want to compute
the answer you feel is correct and look for it among the
choices given. If your answer is not among the choices provided,
reread the question and consider all of the choices.
- Read Each Question Carefully
It is important that you understand what each question asks.
Some questions will require you to go through several steps
to find a correct answer, while others can be answered quickly
on the basis of your acquired knowledge.
- Answer the Easy Questions First
The best strategy for taking ASSET is to answer the easy
questions and skip the questions you find difficult. After
answering all of the easy questions, go back and answer
the more difficult questions.
- Use Logic In More Difficult Questions
When you return to the more difficult questions, try to
use logic to eliminate incorrect answers to a question.
Compare the choices to each other and note how they differ.
Such differences may provide clues as to what the question
requires. Eliminate as many incorrect answers as you can,
then make an educated guess from the remaining choices.
- Review Your Work
If there is time left after you have answered every question
in a test, go back and check your work in that test. Check
to be sure that you marked only one answer for each question.
You will not be allowed to go back to any other test or
mark answers to a test after time has been called on that
test.
- Answer Every Question
Your score on ASSET tests will be based on the number of
questions that you answer correctly; there is no penalty
for guessing. Therefore, you should answer every question
within the time allowed for each test.
- Be Precise In Marking Your Answer Sheet
Be sure that you blacken the correct circles on your answer
sheet. Check to be sure that the number of the line of ovals
on your answer sheet is the same as the number of the question
you are answering. Position your answer sheet next to your
test booklet so you can mark your answers quickly and completely.
- Erase Completely
If you want to change an answer on your answer sheet, be
sure to erase the mark completely.
