The landscape of education and professional assessment has irrevocably shifted towards the digital realm. From university midterms to pre-employment screenings and professional certifications, online tests have become a ubiquitous part of our learning and career journeys. While the core principles of studying and understanding the material remain paramount, the online format introduces unique challenges and requires specific strategies for success. Excelling in these digital assessments isn't just about knowing the answers; it's about mastering the environment, technology, and specific techniques suited to this medium.
This article provides comprehensive tips to help you navigate and excel in your next online tests.
Before the Test: Laying the Foundation for Success
Thorough preparation is non-negotiable, regardless of the test format. However, for online tests, preparation extends beyond just content mastery to include technical and environmental readiness.
- Understand the Terrain: Know Your Test Format
- Platform Familiarity: Is the test administered through a specific platform like Blackboard, Canvas, Moodle, ProctorU, or a proprietary system? If possible, explore the platform beforehand. Look for tutorials or practice modules offered by the institution or testing body. Understanding navigation, button functions (like 'save,' 'next,' 'flag for review'), and how answers are submitted can prevent costly confusion during the actual test.
- Question Types: Will it be multiple-choice, true/false, short answer, essay, drag-and-drop, or a combination? Knowing the format helps you tailor your study and practice approach.
- Rules and Regulations: Are online tests open-book or closed-book? Is backtracking allowed? Are there specific time limits per section or question? Clarify all rules with your instructor or the testing authority. Pay close attention to policies regarding academic integrity and proctoring.
- Timing: Know the total duration of the test and if there are specific time allocations for different sections. This is crucial for planning your pacing.
- Master the Material: Content is Still King
- Structured Study Plan: Don't cram. Develop a realistic study schedule leading up to the test date. Break down the material into manageable chunks.
- Active Recall and Practice: Don't just passively read notes. Use flashcards, teach the concepts to someone else, or work through practice problems. Seek out practice online tests if available, as they simulate the actual experience closely.
- Identify Weak Areas: Focus your study efforts on topics you find challenging. Don't just stick to what you already know well.
- Technical Readiness: Your Digital Lifeline
- Hardware Check: Ensure your computer or laptop meets the technical requirements specified. Check your webcam and microphone if proctoring is involved. Make sure your device is fully charged or plugged in.
- Software Check: Update your operating system and web browser. Some testing platforms require specific browser versions or may necessitate disabling pop-up blockers or installing dedicated software (like lockdown browsers). Do this well in advance.
- Internet Connection: A stable, reliable internet connection is critical. Test your speed and stability. Plan to take the test in a location with the strongest signal. Consider having a backup plan, like a mobile hotspot, if your primary connection is prone to issues (but check if switching networks is permitted).
- Trial Run: If a practice test or system check tool is available, use it! This helps confirm that your hardware, software, and internet connection are compatible with the testing environment.
Setting the Stage: Creating the Optimal Environment for Online Tests
Your physical surroundings can significantly impact your performance during
online exams. Unlike a controlled classroom setting, you are responsible for creating an environment conducive to focus.
- Choose Your Location Wisely:
- Quiet Space: Select a room where you are least likely to be interrupted by family members, roommates, pets, or outside noise.
- Comfortable Setup: Use a comfortable chair and ensure your desk is at an appropriate height. Good ergonomics can prevent physical discomfort from becoming a distraction.
- Adequate Lighting: Ensure the room is well-lit to avoid eye strain. If a webcam is used for proctoring, ensure your face is clearly visible.
- Minimize Distractions:
- Silence Devices: Turn off your phone, smartwatch notifications, email alerts, and any other potential digital distractions. Close unnecessary browser tabs and applications on your computer.
- Inform Others: Let household members know you will be taking an important test and request not to be disturbed during that specific timeframe. Put a "Do Not Disturb" sign on your door if necessary.
- Gather Necessary Materials (Legitimately):
- Permitted Aids: If allowed, have your textbook, notes, calculator, or other permitted resources organised and within reach.
- Scratch Paper/Pen: If permitted for calculations or note-taking, have them ready. Check the rules regarding scratch paper, as some proctored exams have specific requirements (e.g., showing it to the camera before and after).
- Water: Stay hydrated, but keep drinks away from your keyboard and mouse. Avoid snacks unless explicitly permitted, as eating can be distracting or flagged during proctored exams.
During the Test: Strategies for Peak Performance
You've prepared, set up your environment – now it's time to tackle the test itself.
- Read Instructions Meticulously:
- Before starting, carefully read all instructions provided on the screen. Re-read them if necessary. Misinterpreting instructions is a common, avoidable error in online tests. Pay attention to details about time limits, navigation, and how to submit answers.
- Manage Your Time Effectively:
- Pacing: Keep an eye on the clock (usually displayed on the test interface). Allocate your time wisely based on the number of questions and their point values. Don't spend too long on a single difficult question; flag it and return later if the platform allows.
- Section Timing: If the test has multiple sections with separate time limits, adhere strictly to those limits.
- Tackle Questions Strategically:
- Read Carefully: Read each question and all answer choices thoroughly before selecting an answer. Watch out for negatives (like "Which of the following is NOT...") or absolute terms (like "always" or "never").
- Process of Elimination: For multiple-choice questions, eliminate obviously incorrect answers first to narrow down your options.
- Answer Everything (Usually): Unless there's a penalty for incorrect answers (negative marking), it's generally better to make an educated guess than to leave a question blank.
- Use Available Tools: Utilize features like flagging questions for review, highlighting text (if available), or a digital scratchpad if provided.
- Stay Focused and Avoid Panic:
- Maintain Concentration: It can be easier to get distracted at home. Make a conscious effort to stay focused on the test. If your mind wanders, gently bring it back.
- Manage Test Anxiety: If you start feeling overwhelmed, take a few deep breaths. Remind yourself that you've prepared. A brief pause can help reset your focus.
- Navigating Technical Glitches:
- Stay Calm: If your internet drops, the platform freezes, or you encounter another technical issue, don't panic.
- Document the Problem: Take screenshots or photos of any error messages, including the time.
- Contact Support Immediately: Use the provided technical support channel (chat, phone) if available. Inform your instructor or the testing administrator as soon as possible, providing the documentation you gathered. Prompt communication is key.
The Ethics of Online Testing: Integrity Matters
The unsupervised nature of some online tests can present temptations. However, maintaining academic integrity is paramount.
- Understanding Proctoring: Many online exams employ proctoring methods to ensure honesty. This can range from AI-based monitoring (webcam, microphone, screen activity analysis) to live human proctors watching via webcam or lockdown browsers that prevent accessing other applications or websites. Be aware of the proctoring method used and follow all related rules.
- Seeking Legitimate Support: If you're struggling with the material, seek ethical help with online tests. This includes:
- Attending instructor office hours.
- Forming study groups with peers.
- Utilizing university tutoring centers or academic support services.
- Using official practice materials and resources.
These legitimate avenues provide real learning and skill development, unlike unethical shortcuts.
At
Academia Scholars, we help students with writing online tests for all courses and study areas. Besides writing your online tests and TEAS exams, we also handle professional management of online classes including weekly discussions, assignments, quizzes and peer responses. We can also assist you with writing essays,
research papers, term papers, case studies,
thesis and
dissertations.
Specific Types of Online Assessments: Tailoring Your Approach
Not all online tests are created equal. Your strategy might need slight adjustments depending on the specific type.
- Open-Book vs. Closed-Book Online Tests:
- Open-Book: Don't assume open-book tests are easy. They often focus on application and critical thinking rather than rote memorization. Time limits can still be tight, so simply looking up every answer isn't feasible. Organise your notes and materials beforehand for quick reference. Focus on understanding concepts, not just locating facts.
- Closed-Book: Preparation relies heavily on memorization and deep understanding, just like a traditional in-person exam. Strict adherence to rules against using outside resources is crucial, especially if proctoring is involved.
- High-Stakes Examinations (e.g., TEAS Exams):
- Assessments like the TEAS exams (Test of Essential Academic Skills), often required for nursing program admissions, carry significant weight. Preparation should be particularly rigorous. Utilise official study guides and practice tests extensively. Familiarise yourself thoroughly with the specific content areas, timing constraints, and the online testing interface used for these critical evaluations. The pressure is higher, so anxiety management techniques become even more important.
After the Test: Learning and Moving Forward
Once you've submitted your test, the process isn't quite over.
- Review and Reflect (If Possible):
- Some platforms or instructors allow you to review your submitted online tests, showing which questions you got right or wrong. Take advantage of this opportunity.
- Analyze your mistakes. Did you misunderstand the question, lack knowledge on the topic, make a careless error, or run out of time? Identifying patterns in your errors helps you improve for the future.
- Don't Dwell on Imperfection:
- Whether you feel you aced it or struggled, try not to obsess over the results immediately. Learn from the experience, acknowledge your effort, and focus on preparing for the next challenge. Every test is a learning opportunity.
Conclusion
Excelling in online tests requires a blend of solid subject knowledge, technical preparedness, strategic test-taking skills, and unwavering academic integrity. By understanding the specific demands of the online format, creating an optimal testing environment, managing your time effectively during the assessment, and preparing diligently, you can significantly improve your performance. Remember that while technology facilitates these assessments, your focus, preparation, and ethical conduct remain the core drivers of success. Approach your next online assessment not as an obstacle, but as an opportunity to demonstrate your knowledge and adaptability in the evolving digital landscape.