Test Taking Strategies for Teens to Enhance Exam Performance

Teens 13–17 · How-to · Updated October 1, 2026 · LearnLife Editorial

What do you need before starting a test?

Before your test day, prepare by gathering all the supplies you’ll need. This includes at least two pencils (with erasers), a sharpener, a calculator (if allowed), a watch or timer to track your time, and any permitted notes or formula sheets. Bring a water bottle to stay hydrated and a healthy snack for after the test. Preparing these items the night before prevents last-minute stress. Also, focus on physical readiness: get at least 7-8 hours of sleep, eat a balanced meal, and avoid heavy caffeine or sugary snacks that can spike anxiety.

Set up a dedicated, quiet study space days ahead to review material without distractions. Use your phone or computer only for studying, and turn off social media notifications during study times. Planning your route to the test location the day before helps you arrive on time without rushing. For example, if your test starts at 9 a.m., aim to be there 10-15 minutes early to settle in. Having everything ready before the test builds confidence and reduces anxiety.

What are the key test taking steps to follow?

When you start the test, follow these steps carefully:

1. Read all instructions slowly and out loud in your head. For example, if instructions say, “Answer all questions,” you know you can’t skip any. If it says “Choose the best answer,” you’ll focus on multiple-choice questions carefully.

1. Preview the entire test quickly. Skim through to see how many questions there are, their types (multiple choice, essay, true/false), and estimate how much time to spend on each. For instance, if there are 50 questions and 60 minutes, aim for about 1 minute per question but leave extra time for essays.

1. Begin with questions you know well. This builds momentum and confidence early on. If you see a math problem you can solve easily, do it first rather than spending time stuck on a harder question.

1. Use a watch or timer to pace yourself. Check the time after every 10-15 questions. For example, if you planned to spend 20 minutes on the first 20 questions, see if you’re on track and adjust if needed.

1. Don’t leave any question blank unless there’s a penalty for guessing. If you’re unsure of an answer, make your best guess. For example, eliminate one or two choices in multiple-choice questions to improve your odds.

1. Mark difficult questions and return to them later. Use a symbol like a star or question mark next to problems you skipped, so you can easily find them during review.

1. Review your answers if time allows. Use the last 5-10 minutes to double-check calculations, spelling, and that you answered every question. Look for careless mistakes like misreading a question or skipping a line.

By following these steps, you stay organized, reduce panic, and maximize your test performance.

How can you tell if your test taking strategy worked?

After the test, take a moment to evaluate how well your strategy worked. Reflect on questions like: Were you able to finish on time? Did you feel calm and focused throughout? Were you confident in your answers? A good sign is if you completed the test with time left for review without feeling rushed.

Your test score will give some feedback, but also consider your mental state during the test. If you felt less anxious and more in control than before, that’s progress. If you found yourself stuck or distracted, note that for next time. For example, if you guessed fewer answers and still finished, you might focus next on improving confidence for harder questions.

Keep a journal or notes about each test experience. Over time, patterns will emerge showing what works best for you. If a strategy didn’t work, such as spending too much time on one section, adjust your timing plan. Consistent reflection helps you improve and feel more prepared.

What should you do when test-taking goes wrong?

Tests don’t always go perfectly, and that’s okay. If you start feeling overwhelmed or confused during the test, try these steps:

• Pause for deep breaths.

Take three slow breaths, counting to four on the inhale and six on the exhale to calm nerves.

• Skip the tough question and move on.

For example, if a hard math problem is blocking you, mark it and return after answering easier questions.

• Use positive self-talk.

Remind yourself, “I’ve prepared for this,” or “I can handle one question at a time.”

• If you run out of time, write quick bullet points or partial answers.

For essay or short-answer questions, jot down main ideas or formulas even if you can’t write full answers.

• After the test, review what happened.

Did anxiety cause you to freeze? Did you misread instructions? Use these insights to practice calming techniques or study differently next time.

If anxiety or focus issues consistently interfere, talk to a teacher, counselor, or parent. They can help with accommodations or support. Remember, one tough test doesn’t define your abilities.

How can these strategies be adapted for teens with ADHD or similar challenges?

Teens with ADHD often face extra challenges with focus and managing time. Here’s how to adapt test-taking strategies:

• Break the test into smaller parts mentally.

Tell yourself, “I’ll focus on the first 10 questions, then take a quick stretch or deep breath.”

• Use allowed accommodations.

Many schools offer extra time, frequent breaks, or quiet rooms. Ask your counselor how to get these.

• Practice mindfulness before and during the test.

Simple breathing exercises or brief grounding techniques help reduce restlessness.

• Use fidget tools if permitted.

Small stress balls or textured items can help maintain focus without distracting others.

• Prepare with practice tests.

Doing timed practice tests at home helps build familiarity and reduces surprise on test day.

• Write out the test-taking steps in large print on a card.

Having a checklist to glance at during the test can remind you of pacing and skipping strategies.

These adaptations help you stay on track and reduce frustration, making test day less overwhelming.

What test taking strategies are especially useful for high school students?

High school tests often include diverse question types—multiple choice, essays, short answers, and sometimes projects. To handle this variety:

• Divide your time between sections.

For example, if your test includes a 30-minute multiple-choice and a 30-minute essay, plan accordingly so you don’t rush the essay.

• Take notes or outline essays before writing.

Quickly jotting main points organizes thoughts and makes writing clearer.

• Practice different question types before the test.

Try sample multiple-choice questions, practice essay prompts, and short-answer questions to build confidence.

• Use your scratch paper effectively.

For math or science tests, write down formulas and work through problems step-by-step to avoid careless mistakes.

• Stay aware of instructions for each section.

Sometimes essay questions have multiple parts; make sure you answer all.

• Join or form study groups.

Explaining material to classmates can reinforce your understanding and highlight areas you need to review.

These strategies help you manage complex high school exams and improve overall test performance.

What is a good test taking strategies checklist for teens?

Use this detailed checklist as a guide before and during your tests:

Use this checklist regularly to build habits that improve test performance and reduce anxiety.

Where can you learn more about test taking strategies?

There are many helpful resources tailored for teens and different learning needs. For example, articles on test taking strategies for middle school students focus on building foundational skills, while resources for teens with ADHD offer specialized tips to manage concentration and anxiety. Websites and guides on study tips for teens can also provide advice on organizing time, reviewing material, and practicing test questions. Exploring these resources can expand your toolkit and help you discover strategies that fit your learning style. For instance, practicing tests under timed conditions at home mimics real test environments and builds confidence. Consistent practice and learning from your experiences prepare you for more successful exams.

Frequently asked questions

How can I reduce test anxiety before exams?

Reduce test anxiety by preparing early, getting enough sleep, and eating well. Use deep breathing exercises or visualization techniques like imagining yourself answering confidently. Avoid cramming the night before. If anxiety feels overwhelming, reach out to a counselor or trusted adult for support and strategies to stay calm.

What should I do if I don’t finish the test on time?

If time runs out, prioritize answering easier questions first next time and pace yourself better. For now, if allowed, write brief notes or bullet points for incomplete questions to show partial knowledge. After the test, practice timed mock exams to improve pacing.

Are there specific strategies for multiple-choice tests?

Yes. Read each question carefully and try to answer before looking at options. Eliminate clearly wrong answers to improve your guess. Watch for tricky words like “always” or “never” that might indicate false answers. Guess if unsure unless the test penalizes wrong answers.

How can I study better for essay questions?

Practice outlining your essay answers before writing. Focus on a clear introduction, body with supporting details, and conclusion. Use bullet points during the test to organize ideas quickly. Reviewing sample essay questions helps build confidence.

Can I get accommodations for test taking if I have ADHD?

Many schools provide accommodations such as extra time, breaks, or quieter testing rooms for students with ADHD. Talk to your school counselor or special education coordinator early to request these supports and understand the process.