You Have the Materials, but Do You Have the Tools?
The saying “practice as you’d like to perform” is applicable to so many things, especially test preparation. Practice tests are the foundation of preparation for this very reason. Practice tests help simulate test day and expose you to the content and structure of the test.
But taking a practice test is just the first step. After you take a practice test, it’s critical to do an in-depth analysis of your results and to complete targeted practice. That’s where the Test Innovators diagnostic suite comes in! Our diagnostic tools break down your results into an interactive, easy-to-understand report and provide recommendations for additional practice.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make the most of our diagnostic suite:
1. Take a test!
To get the most accurate diagnosis, you should take practice tests in an environment that simulates test day. Sit at a desk in a quiet, well-lit room with as few distractions as possible. We offer both online and paper practice tests so you can prepare for the format you’ll see on test day. The proctor videos in our video course help further simulate the test-day experience.
2. Analyze timing.
Time management is one of the most important skills when it comes to test taking. Our detailed timing graph allows you to analyze your time management skills. As you complete the practice test, our system keeps track of how long you spend on every question, when you select an answer choice, and when you change an answer choice. Analyzing your time management skills is the first step in improving them!
TIP: One of the best ways to decrease the time spent answering questions is to complete additional practice questions. Our data indicate that students who complete related practice exercises not only increase their chance of getting a similar question right the next time, but they also answer that question faster.
3. Identify the areas that need improvement.
When reviewing your practice test results, it’s important to identify the areas that need the most improvement so you can start practicing those topics first. Our Personalized Prep Plan does just that by providing recommendations for additional practice based on the results of your practice test. As you complete practice tests, the Prep Plan adapts to provide individualized recommendations for best next steps.
4. Consider tutoring.
A tutor will help you develop strategies and skills to master each section. All of our tutors teach foundational strategies, test-taking skills, and specific content with an individualized approach. Get started with a free consultation with one of our Test Innovators tutors.
5. Take more tests!
It’s important to periodically gauge how well preparation is going, and the best way to do this is by taking another practice test. Learn more about the 3 steps of successful test preparation.
