Test-Taking Tactics

Tips & techniques for cracking the new Computerized Multiple-Choice tests

CLEP now uses a computer version similar to SAT. However, there are many fundamental differences in the testing objectives, format and phrasing of the two tests.

While CLEP is designed to test college level "achievement" (what you know), the SAT is a trickier test that tests your aptitude in a highly competitive setting. CLEP tests largely steer clear of ambiguity. It is also a much shorter test lasting only 90 minutes.

The goal of a CLEP exam is to test college-level proficiency. If you have a sufficiently strong grasp over the subject or test material, you can more than meet the passing threshold of most highly-rated colleges.

CLEP is also considered easier than AP (Advanced Placements), so if you have a choice, go for the former!

A Simple Checklist for Maximizing your CLEP Score!

- Practice makes Perfect: The test software has a tutorial that you can use to familiarize yourself with various types of questions before taking the actual test.

- Follow Directions Closely: Pay careful attention to the directions given by your test administrator. It is equally important to read the directions in the software before you start attempting the questions.

- Set the Right Pace: Ensure that you aren't working your way too slowly through the test. Don't borrow time from other sections that you may know better. You should have tackled at least half the questions in a section before exhausting half the time allocated.

- Keep an eye on the (onscreen) clock: Working too fast can lead to early burnout, while working too slow can result in missed questions and last-minute rush.

If in doubt, click the time icon to check how much time you have left



- Avoid Preconceived (premature) Assumptions
Read all answer choices carefully before responding. Even if the 1st or 2nd option appears correct, you might find a better fit in the remaining options.

- Don't sweat the tricky stuff
Don't work on the trickier questions too long- move on! You can mark such questions using the "Mark" tool in the exam software. At the end of the test, you could go back to those questions if you still have time left!



- It's ok to Guess!
Here's some good news: While the old paper version of CLEP awarded a 1/4th negative mark for incorrect answers, the computerized tests do not deduct any points for incorrect answers. It's a good idea to answer all questions (even those you don't know) but make an educated guess wherever possible!

- Request Scrap paper if required
You are allowed to use the official scrap paper (make sure not to carry your own!). It can be quite handy to scribble your notes or perform a quick calculation. But do not- we repeat, do not mark your answers on the scrap paper. Use the computer for that!

- Significance of certain keywords
Pay careful attention to the usage and interpretation of the related keywords below:

* All/ Always/ Every
* But/ However
* Generally/ Usually/ Often
* None/ Never/ Not
* Seldom/ Sometimes
* Rarely/ Seldom
* May/ Perhaps
* Must/ Necessary
* Except/ Only


Keywords such as 'All', 'Always' and 'Every' indicate that there are no exceptions to the proposed answer.

Keywords such as 'Generally', 'Usually' and 'Often' indicate that exceptions are possible, but not likely.

- A handy tool for last-minute Reviews
Use the "Review" tool to revisit questions you have marked for review, as well as the ones which you haven't attempted or accidentally skipped.



Another advantage of computerized testing is that you can view your test scores instantly upon completing the exam.

CREDIT TRANSFERS:
If you'd like your CLEP score forwarded to a specific college, make sure you enter the corresponding code number at the time of taking the exam.

If you've already taken CLEP and would like to have a copy sent to your designated college, you can do so by filling out the Transcript Request Form (look in the bottom of your score report)

If you don't have the form, call (800) 257-9558 to order the transcript (credit card required). CLEP scores are kept on file for 20 years and can be requested at a later date for a small fee.