Test Taking and “Street Smarts”

Introduction

Often, instructors will include problems or questions that have a twist to them – these questions, affectionately known as “trick questions” are designed to see if you are paying attention and REALLY know the material. Rather than genius, solid street smarts are required to be successful! 

Math Word Problems

The most common type of tricky question is the dreaded “word problem” used by many math teachers. Successful test taking here begins with identifying the key words in the questions, and turning them into mathematical symbols. Next, ask yourself what the problem is really asking you to find. If you put all of this together, you will find you have turned a word problem into a solvable and recognizable equation.

Attempting MCQs

The next type of trick question is used in multiple choice questions – one answer is very close but worded slightly differently. Here, you have to be alert and on your toes. Don’t ever assume that any test is free of trick questions! 

Be Alert

The best test taking strategy is to go into any test with your eyes wide open – look actively for any twists and tricks that may show up. Better yet, try to anticipate the type of trick questions that may arise BEFORE you start the test taking process. 

Improve Your Skills

A useful way of building this type of street smarts is to work logic problems – they can be found in the magazine section of your local grocery store and really do help build perceptive skills.