Beginning Algebra, 11th Edition

STUDY SKILLS Analyzing Your Test Results^237

Analyzing Your Test Results

STUDY SKILLS

1. You read the directions wrong.


2. You read the question wrong or skipped over something.


3. You made a computation error.


4. You made a careless error. (For example, you incorrectly copied a correct
   answer onto a separate answer sheet.)


5. Your answer is not complete.


6. You labeled your answer wrong. (For example, you labeled an answer “ft”
   instead of “ft^2 .”)


7. You didn’t show your work.


8. You didn’t understand a concept.


9. You were unable to set up the problem (in an application).


10. You were unable to apply a procedure.

An exam is a learning opportunity—learn from your mistakes.After a test is returned, do the following:

N Note what you got wrong and why you had points deducted.

N Figure out how to solve the problems you missed.Check your textbook or notes, or ask your instructor.

Rework the problems correctly.

N Keep all quizzes and tests that are returned to you.Use them to study for future tests and the final exam.

Typical Reasons for Errors on Math Tests

These are test taking errors.
They are easy to correct if
you read carefully, show all
your work, proofread, and
double-check units and
labels.

These are test preparation
errors.You must practice the
kinds of problems that you
will see on tests.

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⎪

⎨

⎪

⎩

⎧ ⎪ ⎪ ⎪ ⎪ ⎪ ⎪ ⎨ ⎪ ⎪ ⎪ ⎪ ⎪ ⎩

Read Read Not Didn’t

directions question Computation exact or Not Labeled show

Test wrong wrong error accurate complete wrong work

1

2

3

Didn’t understand Didn’t set up problem Couldn’t apply concept

Test concept correctly to new situation

1

2

3

Below are sample charts for tracking your test taking progress. Use them to find out

if you tend to make certain kinds of errors on tests. Check the appropriate box when

you’ve made an error in a particular category.

What will you do to avoid these kinds of errors on your next test?

Test Taking Errors

Test Preparation Errors