Whether you're taking the SAT or ACT or are studying for a final exam, you will encounter many tests in high school and college that have multiple choice questions. We have some tips to help you answer these types of questions with confidence!

Read the entire question

Read a multiple choice question in its entirety before glancing over the answer options. While this may seem like common sense, it’s helpful to remember when you’re under a time crunch or are sure you know the answer despite not having read the entire question. 

Answer it in your mind first

After reading a question, answer it in your mind before reviewing the answer options. This will help prevent you from talking yourself out of the correct answer.

Use the process of elimination

Cross out all the answers you know are incorrect, then focus on the remaining answers. Not only does this strategy save time, it increases your likelihood of selecting the correct answer.

Use the true or false test

If you’re unsure of the answer options for a question, give each one a true or false test. Cross out the false answers first before identifying the correct answer. 

Look for answers hidden in questions

Sometimes, answers are hidden right in the question! This is another reason it’s important to read the question thoroughly before answering it. 

Answer the questions you know first

If you get stuck on a question, move on to the next one. Answer all the questions you’re confident about first before going back to the ones you’re unsure of. This can save you time and some pressure!

Know when to avoid selecting "All of the above" or "None of the above"

When you encounter an "All of the above" answer choice, do not select it if you are pretty sure that one or more of the other answer choices provided is incorrect. The same applies for "None of the above" if you are confident that at least one of the answer choices is correct.

Keep an eye on the clock

While it’s important to do your best to answer questions correctly, it’s just as important to make sure you answer all of them within your allotted time. Before your next multiple choice exam, practice your time management skills to make sure you’re ready to go.

Have any questions about preparing for your next exam? Text #Hello to 33-55-77 to chat with one of our advisors. If you're using a mobile device, click here to have the text message set up for you!