Multiple choice tests are arguably one of the most loved types of tests by students. Compared to memory-based tests like identification and enumeration, multiple tests are easier to answer. If you are not sure about the answer to a question, you have at least 3-4 choices to choose from.

But, in some cases, multiple choice tests can be quite challenging. When that happens, here are some strategies that you can try to help ease the situation. 

Reading ALL the choices carefully
To save answers, we tend to skim over the choices and pick the one that seems to be the best. However, not reading the given choices carefully may prove to be your fatal flaw. Sometimes, the given choices may seem so alike, but they are different for one or two words. For example, choice A and D may both read “the sun sets to the east,” but choice A used the word “sun” while D used “son.” 

Using the process of elimination
When you don’t know the answer, it helps to cross some choices that don’t seem to make sense. For example, if the answer implies to be a state of matter, cross the choice that isn’t one.  On the other hand, if the sentence implies that the answer is plural, cross any choice that is singular. Eventually, you will be able to find the correct answer.

If you are not sure which one is the odd man, try plugging all the answers to the question. Then, pick the one which sounds the best to your gut.

Ignoring ‘legit test-taking tips.’ 
At times, you will hear “test tips” from your friends. For example, they may tell you to choose the middle choice if you don’t know the answer. Or if there is a choice that uses ‘never,’ ‘always,’ or ‘all,’ you should never choose them. They may seem like sensible advice, but don’t heed them

According to William Poundstone, who wrote “Rock Breaks Scissors: A Practical Guide to Outguessing and Outwitting Almost Everybody,” those aren’t true. The statistics don’t hold up. For example, Poundstone discovered that choices that use ‘never,’ ‘always,’ or ‘all’ are correct approximately 52% of the time.

Choosing the longest answer
Poundstone also found that choices that use longer sentences are most likely correct. According to Poundstone, this is because test makers make sure that the correct answer is indisputably right. So, the next time you see a choice that uses more complex words than others, pick that! 

If all else fails, then take a guess! We trust that you have studied for your exam more than studying the tricks of multiple-choice exams.  So, pace yourself and be consistent with your answers, unless you discover new information that says otherwise.

Knowing the tricks and tips may help you ace the test. However, tests are designed to test your knowledge and understanding of your lessons, so studying is still important. Make it a habit of studying at least two days for your exam, and you’ll surely pass your tests! 

References: 
http://www.businessinsider.com/4-ways-to-outsmart-any-multiple-choice-test-2015-6
https://www.thoughtco.com/multiple-choice-test-strategies-3212049

Contributed by: Allison Julianne Macasaet
She is a freelance writer on the side, a student of international relations on the other. Interests include fantasy books, international relations, and lifestyle.