When You Get the Test Back

What do you do with a test once it is returned to you with a grade? It's a good idea to do a quick analysis of your performance. Ask yourself a few questions:

• Was there a certain type of question that caused problems for you?
• Was your essay short on substance?
• Was there a question that took you by surprise? Why?
• Was there information that you didn't study?
• What were your strengths?
• What cost you points?

Look over the test to see if you can find a pattern, whether it reflects a problem or a strength in your test performance. If you do this several times, you'll learn a lot about improving your work.