We frequently hear from students the idea that they are “ not a good test taker.” Today we will explain how to become one.
I’m Not a Good Test Taker Because…
A common myth that we hear from many students is the belief that there is a subset of people that are very good at taking tests, and that the student is among a minority of bad test takers.
The reality is that most people fall into the category of being average test takers, and therefore tend to perform average on tests. When the passing score for an exam like the Series 7, Series 79, Series 66, or CFA requires above average performance then it can get challenging, and require above-average preparation.
Furthermore, only a very small (very, very small) group of people score very well on tests, and put very little effort into studying for it.
Common Issues
Generally speaking, the common issues we hear from students that they believe contribute to them being a bad test taker (in order of how frequently we hear them) are:
- Test anxiety
- Don’t know where to start studying
- Bad memory
- Little-to-no background in the topic
First, text anxiety, and more general anxiety, is very real. Mental health goes beyond the scope of what we can handle as a tutoring business. On the other hand, for students that simply get nervous around test time, we can certainly help with some tips and tricks.
In fact, they are the same tips that will help you if you don’t know where to start studying, have a bad memory, or little-to-no background in the topic.
How to Solve Some of These Issues
Most people tend to be most nervous, when they are not sure they have enough knowledge to pass the exam. This is typically where we can come in. After seeing many thousands of students, we have a very good sense of when a student is ready to pass, or when it’s going to be close.
There are certainly some times when we get it wrong, however your best bet is to see what you are getting on your practice scores. Low scores won’t likely cut it, and high scores may cut it (as long as they aren’t because you memorized answers).
The secret to getting your scores up, is nothing other than studying and repetition. This also addresses the topic of having a bad memory, or being new to the subject.
How Do I Do It?
A good study strategy is constant repetition and review, as well as the introduction of new concepts and formulas as you go through your studying. As mentioned in prior blog posts, studying is a game of juggling.
Since most people are average students with average memories (we include ourselves in this definition!), repetition is key.
We know of no other way to ensure a topic lodges into your long term memory without repetition (which may include memory tricks such as association).
We have found that the best approach that tends to succeed with the most students is one where there is a constant review of all material (for FINRA and NAASA exams specifically) at least weekly. This typically includes taking a comprehensive practice exam. In between, fill in the gaps where you are weakest on a repetitive basis.
Overall, on top of reviewing formulas and definitions regularly, for about 20 minutes per day, this should add up to a winning formula and make you a better test taker.
As always, if you have any questions feel free to reach out. Good luck!