Testing, Testing, 1-2-3

As Exam I quickly approaches, I have some study tips for you. First off, I'd like to apologize for not getting Jeopardy! up in a timely manner. It's on the left side of this page in the links list.

Also, have something you're not sure about? Comment on this blog with your questions by 2:00 p.m. tomorrow (Sunday) and I'll answer back by 7:00 p.m. at the latest.

Now, for those test taking tips. Maybe you've heard some of these before, maybe you're not even worried about the exam. For the rest of you, here you go:

1. The test has 24 multiple choice questions and you have to answer 20 of them. Just go through and answer the ones you definitely know, then worry about the ones you don't. You might come across ones you don't know right at first. Don't panic! And really, the multiple choice section is more general than the Jeopardy! game.

2. There are six short answer choices and you have to do three of them. Again, go out of order if you have to. Jump right to the one you really know and are excited about, then do other ones. I don't care what order you answer them in, as long as you label them with the prompt number.

3. The big one: essay. If you're scared of the grammar/mechanics/spelling portion, don't worry too much. I'll take off a couple points, but nothing major. Be more concerned if your handwriting is atrocious. You know who you are. Remember that essays can be bent to your strengths. Don't change the question I ask completely (bad), but choose a direction and run with it. Remember that you should write your essay according to what you can most logically argue and back up with evidence. That doesn't necessarily mean it's your true opinion. How would I know, anyway?

4. Go ahead and make that philosopher chart. I'm not much of a chart person myself; I usually make flashcards to study. Do things however you best work, and if you don't know, this is a good chance to start understanding your own brain. There are good things to know about those philosophers: Name, branch of philosophy (agency, epistemology, etc.), side (fate, idealist, etc.), and major contributions and opinions (cogito ergo sum, allegory of the cave, etc.). If you don't understand the overall ideas of each guy, review. Use sources online to help you get the big picture.

5. Look at the links to the left on this blog. Check out the philosophy dictionary if you're not sure what something means. For example, keep in mind that philosophy has different definitions for "materialism" and "idealism" than our normal everyday language does.

6. Plan your time on the test. you have about 80-85 minutes for the whole block. Start with this: one minute for each multiple choice, 10 minutes for each short answer, 30 for the essay. Bend this to your own strengths and weaknesses. Give yourself slightly less time so you have a few minutes at the end to review and breathe. Use the clock or wear a watch.

7. Go out of order if you want to. Do the essay first or whatever. There are no rules.

8. Write outlines for you essays and short answers so there aren't scribbles everywhere. Also, as soon as you get the test, try writing down the stuff you think you might blank on. You'll be turning in everything you write on, so bring lots of paper if you think it will help.

9. Don't cram. You know this. Seriously, don't wait until Sunday night. I hope you haven't even waited until now. Also, I know you will do it. I know I will hear it. But really, don't look at last minute stuff right before class, and ABSOLUTELY DO NOT ask other people things you're not sure about. DO NOT LISTEN to your fellow students spout off random tidbits of information just before. Bring your mp3 player, Walkman, Ghetto Blaster, whatever and tune them out. Studies show you do better on tests when you don't look at anything and just relax for 10 or 15 minutes before an exam.

10. Trust yourself. Don't waste time reviewing the things you know. Go over what you aren't sure about and don't stress over every tiny fact--that's why I give you choices.

You know more than you think you know.