University of Wisconsin Stout | Wisconsin's Polytechnic University

• Carefully read the instructions on the cover of the test booklet.
• Read the directions for each test carefully.
  
• Read each question carefully.
• Pace yourself—don't spend too much time on a single passage or question.
• Pay attention to the announcement of five minutes remaining on each test.
• Use a soft lead No. 2 pencil with a good eraser; do not use a mechanical pencil or ink pen.
• Answer the easy questions first, then go back and answer the more difficult ones if you have time remaining on that test.
• On difficult questions, eliminate as many incorrect answers as you can, then make an educated guess among those remaining.
• Answer every question. Your scores on the multiple-choice tests are based on the number of questions you answer correctly. There is no penalty for guessing.
• On difficult questions, eliminate as many incorrect answers as you can, then make an educated guess among those remaining.
• Answer every question. Your scores on the multiple-choice tests are based on the number of questions you answer correctly. There is no penalty for guessing.
• If you complete a test before time is called, recheck your work on that test.
• Mark your answers properly. Erase any mark completely and cleanly without smudging.
• Do not mark or alter any ovals on a test or continue writing the essay after time has been called. If you do, you will be dismissed and your answer document will not be scored.

• Carefully read the instructions on the cover of the test booklet.
• Do some planning before writing the essay; you will be instructed to do your prewriting in your Writing Test booklet. You can refer to these notes as you write the essay on the lined pages in your answer folder.
• Do not skip lines and do not write in the margins. Write your essay legibly, in English.
• • Carefully consider the prompt and make sure you understand the question it asks—reread it if you aren't sure.At the beginning of your essay, make sure readers will see that you understand the issue.
  • Decide how you want to answer the question in the prompt.Explain your point of view in a clear and logical way.
  • Then jot down your ideas on the topic: this might simply be a list of ideas, reasons, and examples that you will use to explain your point of view on the issue.If possible, discuss the issue in a broader context or evaluate the implications or complications of the issue.
  • Write down what you think others might say in opposition to your point of view and think about how you would refute their arguments.Address what others might say to refute your point of view and present a counterargument.
  • Think of how best to organize your ideas.Use specific examples.
• Vary the structure of your sentences, and use varied and precise word choices.
• Make logical relationships clear by using transitional words and phrases.
• Stay focused on the topic.
• End with a strong conclusion that summarizes or reinforces your position.
• If there is time, do a final check of the essay when it is finished.
• • Correct any mistakes in grammar, usage, punctuation, and spelling.
  • If you find any words that are hard to read, recopy them so your readers can read them easily.
  • Make any corrections and revisions neatly, between the lines (but not in the margins).

Here are some ways you can strengthen your writing skills:

• Read and write frequently. Read as much as you can from a variety of sources, including plays, essays, fiction, poetry, news stories, business writing and magazine features.
• Become familiar with current issues in society and develop your own opinions on the issues. Think of arguments you would use to convince someone of your opinion. Taking speech and debate classes can help you think through issues and communicate them to others.
• Practice writing in different formats and in as many real situations as possible. Write letters to the editor, or letters to a company requesting information.
• Try some writing in extracurricular activities. School newspapers, yearbooks, and creative writing clubs offer opportunities to express ideas in writing.
• Share your writing with others and get feedback. Feedback helps you anticipate how readers might interpret your writing and what types of questions they might have. This can help you anticipate what a reader might want to know.
• Learn to see writing as a process—brainstorming, planning, writing and then editing. This applies to all writing activities.
• Listen to the advice your English teacher gives you about your writing.
• Strive for your writing to be well developed and well organized, using precise, clear and concise language.
• Remember that everyone can improve writing skills. Confidence and skill will grow with the more writing you do. Practice and work lead to achievement.