Getting ready for a test is something every student experiences. The skills required for test preparation are necessary throughout one's entire school career. Children in first grade need just as many test taking skills as a student striving to attain a doctorate in graduate school. Success during an exam not only requires test taking skills, but also proper preparation. While there are countless ways to get ready for a test, there are 5 that stand out as the most beneficial.

Systematic Material Skimming
The best way to help your child get ready for a test is to teach him/her how to correctly study. When exams cover an entire chapter, or multiple chapters of information, children tend to become overwhelmed. The best place to start is right at the beginning of the material. Have your child read all the chapter titles, heading titles, and definitions. Usually text books contain review questions at the end of each chapter or section. Read the review questions. Even if your child doesn't know the answers, it will let him/her know where to focus energy.

Flashcards
Flashcards can be used when your child is getting ready for a test with a partner, or studying alone. Flashcards work best if your child is the one to create them. Not only do they get the benefit of quiz repetition, but they also have the benefit of physically writing down study material.

Study Sheet of Difficult Information
While your child is getting ready for a test, he/she will come across information that is difficult to remember. Everyone has certain facts, figures, definitions, and dates that never seem to come to mind. Have your child write down particularly difficult information on a special study sheet. This sheet can be referenced immediately before the test to refresh the memory.

Quiz Child Using Review Sheet
Your child should never have to study alone. Getting ready for a test is mentally and emotionally draining. If your child doesn't have a study buddy, volunteer yourself. Most instructors hand out review worksheets. Quiz your child on the worksheet beginning 3 or 4 days before the exam. If the teacher does not provide a review worksheet, have your child create their own.

Enforce Homework Completion Each Day
Perhaps the best way to help your child get ready for a test is to help him/her absorb the information each day. Each night, ask your son or daughter what was learned in class and what type of homework was given. Have a specific time in which homework should be completed. If your child needs help, make yourself available. Getting ready for a test is much easier if information is digest over a few weeks, rather than crammed into 1 or 2 nights.

Testing is no picnic. It doesn't, however, need to be a stressful event filled with anxiety and fear. Preparation is the key to successful test taking. Getting ready for a test is simple if you help your child with these 5 study techniques.

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Jennifer Berry is a veteran elementary teacher. Jennifer has taught at every elementary grade level in a career spanning more than 20 years. Jennifer devotes here outside of the classroom time to her thriving elementary teacher web site. You will find printable worksheets that can be sorted by grade
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