Considered a very important test since it is used as part of the licensing and certification process for teachers in many states, the PRAXIS test can definitely make many prospective teachers feel quite nervous. As a result, many often don’t give much thought as to the best ways to ensure they will pass the test on their first try. However, by taking some time to think things through before they sit down to answer the first question, it’s possible to do quite well on their first attempt. If you’re prepping for the PRAXIS, here are some great tips that will ensure you’ll pass.
Take Practice Tests
If you really want to be prepared for the test, take as many practice tests as you can prior to the real thing. And along with taking numerous tests, be sure to pay careful attention to any patterns that emerge in these tests. By noticing these patterns, you may find one particular area that you need to work on, which can help you when you sit down for the real test.
Pace Yourself
With this test, it’s important to pace yourself, since it is a timed test. Because of this, also remember your test score is based on the number of correct answers. So if you want to obtain the best possible score, it’s better to guess at an answer rather than leave it blank, which will give you a better opportunity to do as well as possible.
Don’t Second-Guess Yourself
Even if you are not sure about an answer you selected, don’t spend much time trying to second-guess yourself. Otherwise, you’ll slow yourself down too much, which could impact how many questions you get answered. And along with this, second-guessing yourself on one or two questions may place too much self-doubt in your mind, which could be a major distraction throughout the rest of the test.
Read Each Question Carefully
This can be tricky, since you want to answer as many questions as possible. However, since the test score is based on the number of correct answers, you’ll want to make sure you understand the questions before answering them. To master this technique, take as many practice tests as possible, and learn how to focus on what the question is really asking you.
Brush Up On Your Math
When it comes to the math part of the PRAXIS test, this is one section that can slow down most test-takers and lower their overall score. However, remember that calculators cannot be used, and you’ll have 60 minutes to complete the 40 multiple-choice questions. Therefore, it’s best to brush up on certain math concepts as area, perimeter, averages, ratios, and similar concepts.
Get a Good Night’s Sleep
As it is with any test you take, make sure you get plenty of sleep the night before. After all, if you’re fighting to stay awake during the test, chances are you’re not going to do very well. Since this is a very important test in relation to your future career, you’ll want to have every advantage you can possibly get on test day.
Believe in Yourself
Perhaps more than anything, having a strong belief in your ability to do well on the test can play a huge factor in your success. If you’ve prepared well and know the material as well as possible, there’s a good chance you’ll do well on the test. And remember, keep the test in its proper perspective. While it’s an important test for your career, it won’t define you as a professional. Even if you don’t do as well as you would have liked, if you pass the good news is that you won’t have to worry about it again.
While passing the PRAXIS test can involve hours of study time and taking plenty of practice tests, the good news is that with plenty of careful planning and self-confidence, you’ll probably come out of it with a great score. So prepare as well as possible, sleep well the night before, and walk into the room eager to tackle the PRAXIS.
