Mathematics Test-taking Habits for Students

Looking for the best strategy for taking a math test? Use these 5, and you'll realize the best grades within no time. The experts have tried and tested them!

Many students hate mathematics exams. Some love them. But one thing to keep in mind is that if you don't love it, your chances of acing it are also low. Use these five mathematics test-taking ideas to switch from a mathematics test hater to liver and register your highest grades this semester.

Manage Your Time While Taking the Test

One of the most popular approaches to exams is to start at the beginning, solve every question to the last one and submit your paper. But we don't recommend this approach for mathematics.

We must first agree that scoring everything right in a mathematics test at college or university is almost impossible. Things are set up a bit differently here; only about 15% of students usually manage a first class, which means answering all questions in any given test is a challenge in the first place. But you can surely reap maximum scores when you use our approach.

Identify easy marks: - Go through the paper identifying all questions that appear easier to answer. Distinguish them from others.
Identify the topics: - Categorize each question into topics from which they're derived. You'll find it easier to deal with them, especially if it's a takeaway exam.
Think of a similar example: - While you may not have met the same question before, it's highly likely that you've dealt with or revised a similar question like it. Use the same idea to find the solution.
Come up with an answering plan: - You may start with your favorite topic (identified above) or the easier marks — whatever you prefer.

Check Your Answers for Validity

Checking your answers to see if they make sense before moving to the next question increases your chances of scoring highly in your exam. But many students find this a challenge because exams usually come with limited time. Use these tricks to check your answers for different topics quickly:

Probabilities: - Do all your probabilities sum up to 1? Is there a probability of a value greater than 1 or less than 0?
Algebra: - Substitute the unknowns with numbers to see if the algebraic equations make sense. For example, if 8x + 4 = 20 when x = 2, your answer is right.
Graphs and functions: - Graphs usually assume some models. For example, if you're drawing a graph for a normal set of data, it should assume the normal curve. Otherwise, your plotting could be having a problem.
Calculations: - Some calculations are easy to check for logic. For example, something might be wrong if you're calculating the number of people and your answer isn't a whole number.

What Is The Examiner Thinking?

First, it's important to understand that examiners are extremely busy people (you probably already understand this). That's why they always want to see only what they ask for. Therefore, you'll be their best student if you give them concise answers. We recommend that you write spot-on answers that solve the question alone. For example, use these tricks:

Do not overcomplicate single-mark questions. You won't score more marks for that.
Race care of the question's keywords like "prove," "explain," "write an example," and so on. Don't explain where the examiner only needs you to list.
Sometimes, the examiner may provide a guideline about the method marks. Know what will earn you marks from the rubric and include it in your solution. For example, if you'll earn marks for drawing a table, don't hesitate to draw a neat one.
Last but not least, all examiners love neat solutions. They don't want to sift through scribbles but love interacting with step-by-step solutions. Give them just that.

Get Help from Accomplished Experts Before The Exam

Mathematics is one of the subjects in which it's impossible to excel without expert support. Whether you need the latest test-taking tips or more knowledge from them, it's wise to have people to whom you can seek assistance at reach. You can also ask them to take your exams for you. For example, if you need someone to get your calculus exam done, you'll find a reliable expert online. You may also ask for help with other topics like:

Linear Algebra
Numerical Analysis
Applied Probability and Financial Risk
Probability
Random Variables
Discrete Mathematics

Prepare Well for the Exam

Preparation should come first, but here it is, after all. Unfortunately, many students still don't understand how to prepare adequately or on time for their mathematics exams. That's why they develop anxiety when the paper is around the corner. We recommend early studies (when you're still taking your classes). This is usually the time when your schedule isn't right yet. Last-minute revisions will only cause confusion.

Consider going over the notes you took after each class to make more sense of them. If something doesn't click, it's in your best interest to consult your lecturer or find a certified mathematics expert online who can help you understand the same. There are many reliable websites on which you can find the help you need instantly.

The Bottom Line

While each student may have a different approach to taking their mathematics tests, we're confident that these expert-endorsed tips will land you the best grades if put into practice. Start now and never give up! You'll thank us later.