When tackling multiple-choice questions, it's essential to start with the fundamentals of effective test-taking: carefully read the directions first, ensure you fully understand the question, and approach the multiple-choice options with a clear, systematic strategy. Mastering specific techniques for answering multiple-choice questions can significantly enhance your performance.
Multiple-choice questions often include several answers that seem correct. Your goal is to identify the best answer among the good ones. If you've narrowed it down to two options and both appear valid, choose the one that stands out as better, not just acceptable. When making your final selection, always revisit the question to ensure your choice aligns with its intent.
2. Navigate QualifiersQualifiers are words that modify the meaning of a statement, such as "always," "most," "equal," "good," or "bad." In multiple-choice questions, qualifiers can determine whether an option is correct or incorrect. Consider these two nearly identical statements: "It often rains in Florida" and "It always rains in Florida." While the first statement is true, the qualifier "always" in the second statement renders it false. To avoid errors, pay close attention to qualifiers by circling them in test questions or answer choices. This simple habit can make a significant difference in understanding and answering questions accurately.
To beat qualifiers you need to know the qualifier families:
- Always, usually, sometimes, never
- All, most, some, none (no)
- Great, much, little, no
- More, equal, less
- Good, bad
- Is, is not
When an answer option includes a qualifier from a specific group, try substituting it with each of the other qualifiers from that group, one by one. This approach helps identify which qualifier fits best. If the original qualifier in the answer option proves to be the most suitable, the option is true. However, if a different qualifier from the group fits better, the answer option is false.
3. Recognize the NegativesNegatives can appear as words like no, not, none, or never, or as prefixes such as il- (illegitimate), un- (unwise), or im- (improper). It's important to pay attention to negatives, as they can completely alter the meaning of a sentence. Negatives can change the meaning of a sentence. When two negatives are used, they cancel each other out, leaving the sentence’s meaning unchanged. When encountering negatives in a question, make it a habit to mark them. Focus on understanding the core meaning of the question or statement without the negative wording. This approach will help you more effectively determine whether the answer is true or false.
4. Use Grammar Clues While questions may vary in format, all must adhere to proper grammar rules. Even if an answer contains accurate information, you can eliminate it if it is grammatically incorrect or does not make sense.
5. Start by Marking Only the Sure Things, Then Make Three Passes Through the TestStart by answering all the questions that come to you easily on your first pass through the test. For the more challenging ones, highlight any qualifiers or negatives and eliminate as many incorrect options as possible. This approach sets you up for a stronger second pass. Sometimes, another question might even provide a clue to one that initially stumped you. On your second pass, focus on identifying the “best” answer from the remaining options, giving extra attention to the trickier questions. Finally, on your third pass, make an educated guess on any questions that remain unanswered—remember, a guess is always better than leaving it blank.
