Read each test item carefully before you select an answer. People often make mistakes because they fail to read the test question in detail, especially with questions containing “not” or “except.” Also, try to think of what the answer should be based on your knowledge of test content before you look at the answer choices. You will be less likely to choose an incorrect but attractive answer.
With most multiple-choice questions, you will be able to eliminate one or more of the answer options readily. Cross them off on the exam book and improve your odds of selecting the best answer for each test item.
Avoid spending too much time on any single test item. Take note of test items that may require extra time and come back to them after you have finished the rest of the exam. Computerized tests often display one question per screen. You will have the option to “bookmark” an item before you move on. Bookmarking is an effective technique to avoid leaving questions unanswered, and you will be able to return to the questions you have marked. Wear a watch and pace yourself through each of the three test sections: general, administrative, and clinical. Set up checkpoints during the exam to help your pacing.
Mark a response for each item. All items are scored equally and no points are subtracted for incorrect answers. Do not leave any items blank. If you do not know the answer to a particular question, eliminate as many answers as possible and make an educated guess.
If you are taking a pencil-and-paper exam, it may be helpful to make notes in the test booklet next to specific responses, such as “true” or “false” or “unsure.” This will save you time if you have to come back to a particular question.
If you are taking a paper-based test, make sure that you fill in the computer-scored answer sheet carefully and that you are not skipping any items or getting your answer sheet out of sync with the correct test item. Do not make any stray marks on the answer sheet. Fill in the circle using a No. 2 pencil and if you erase or change a test response, do so clearly and with care. If you leave an item blank because you need more time or want to come back to it, make sure to circle the question in your test booklet so that you will come back to the correct item on the answer sheet.
If you finish the exam with extra time, go back and make sure that you have answered each test item and that your answer sheet is properly completed. Look to make sure that you did not leave any blanks, and that you have selected only one response to each question.
Remember to watch out for questions phrased as negative statements (e.g., “Each of the following is correct EXCEPT”). The negative word may be printed in uppercase letters.
You may not bring your own calculator to the test center, but a whiteboard or calculator on the computer may be available. When you take practice tests, do so without using scratch paper to simulate actual test conditions.
Taking the test on the computer leads to eye muscle fatigue. If you stare at the screen for the entire duration of the exam, you may develop a headache that will impede concentration. Give your eyes a short break every ten or fifteen minutes by focusing on a distant object, such as the door to the testing room. (Make sure you do not appear to be looking at another candidate’s computer screen.)