can homework help you prepare for tests

Does Homework Improve Academic Achievement?

• Share this story on facebook
• Share this story on twitter
• Share this story on reddit
• Share this story on linkedin
• Get this story's permalink
• Print this story

Educators should be thrilled by these numbers. Pleasing a majority of parents regarding homework and having equal numbers of dissenters shouting "too much!" and "too little!" is about as good as they can hope for.

But opinions cannot tell us whether homework works; only research can, which is why my colleagues and I have conducted a combined analysis of dozens of homework studies to examine whether homework is beneficial and what amount of homework is appropriate for our children.

The homework question is best answered by comparing students who are assigned homework with students assigned no homework but who are similar in other ways. The results of such studies suggest that homework can improve students' scores on the class tests that come at the end of a topic. Students assigned homework in 2nd grade did better on math, 3rd and 4th graders did better on English skills and vocabulary, 5th graders on social studies, 9th through 12th graders on American history, and 12th graders on Shakespeare.

Less authoritative are 12 studies that link the amount of homework to achievement, but control for lots of other factors that might influence this connection. These types of studies, often based on national samples of students, also find a positive link between time on homework and achievement.

Yet other studies simply correlate homework and achievement with no attempt to control for student differences. In 35 such studies, about 77 percent find the link between homework and achievement is positive. Most interesting, though, is these results suggest little or no relationship between homework and achievement for elementary school students.

Why might that be? Younger children have less developed study habits and are less able to tune out distractions at home. Studies also suggest that young students who are struggling in school take more time to complete homework assignments simply because these assignments are more difficult for them.

These recommendations are consistent with the conclusions reached by our analysis. Practice assignments do improve scores on class tests at all grade levels. A little amount of homework may help elementary school students build study habits. Homework for junior high students appears to reach the point of diminishing returns after about 90 minutes a night. For high school students, the positive line continues to climb until between 90 minutes and 2½ hours of homework a night, after which returns diminish.

Beyond achievement, proponents of homework argue that it can have many other beneficial effects. They claim it can help students develop good study habits so they are ready to grow as their cognitive capacities mature. It can help students recognize that learning can occur at home as well as at school. Homework can foster independent learning and responsible character traits. And it can give parents an opportunity to see what's going on at school and let them express positive attitudes toward achievement.

Opponents of homework counter that it can also have negative effects. They argue it can lead to boredom with schoolwork, since all activities remain interesting only for so long. Homework can deny students access to leisure activities that also teach important life skills. Parents can get too involved in homework -- pressuring their child and confusing him by using different instructional techniques than the teacher.

My feeling is that homework policies should prescribe amounts of homework consistent with the research evidence, but which also give individual schools and teachers some flexibility to take into account the unique needs and circumstances of their students and families. In general, teachers should avoid either extreme.

Link to this page

Copy and paste the URL below to share this page.

Celebrating 150 years of Harvard Summer School. Learn about our history.

14 Tips for Test Taking Success

Worried about getting through your next big exam? Here are 14 test taking strategies that can help you do your best on your next test.

Mary Sharp Emerson

From pop quizzes to standardized tests, exams are an important part of the life of every high school student.

The best way to ensure that you’ll get the grade you want is to understand the material thoroughly. Good test taking skills, however, can help make the difference between a top grade and an average one. Mastering these skills can also help reduce stress and relieve test-taking anxiety. 

In this blog, we’ve divided our tips for test taking into two categories: seven things you can do to prepare for your next exam and seven things you should do once the test begins. We’ve also included four strategies that can help with test taking anxiety.

We hope these test taking tips will help you succeed the next time you are facing an exam, big or small!

Seven Best Strategies for Test Prep

You’ve probably heard the quote (originally credited to Alexander Graham Bell): “Preparation is the key to success.”

When it comes to test taking, these are words to live by. 

Here are the seven best things you can do to make sure you are prepared for your next test.

1. Cultivate Good Study Habits

Understanding and remembering information for a test takes time, so developing good study habits long before test day is really important. 

Do your homework assignments carefully, and turn them in on time. Review your notes daily. Write out your own study guides. Take advantage of any practice tests your teacher gives you, or even create your own. 

These simple steps, when done habitually, will help ensure that you really know your stuff come test day. 

2. Don’t “Cram”

It might seem like a good idea to spend hours memorizing the material you need the night before the test.

In fact, cramming for a test is highly counterproductive. Not only are you less likely to retain the information you need, cramming also increases stress, negatively impacts sleep, and decreases your overall preparedness.

So avoid the temptation to stay up late reviewing your notes. Last minute cramming is far less likely to improve your grade than developing good study habits and getting a good night’s sleep.

3. Gather Materials the Night Before

Before going to bed (early, so you get a good night’s sleep), gather everything you need for the test and have it ready to go. 

Having everything ready the night before will help you feel more confident and will minimize stress on the morning of the test. And it will give you a few extra minutes to sleep and eat a healthy breakfast.

4. Get a Good Night’s Sleep

And speaking of sleep…showing up to your test well-rested is one of the best things you can do to succeed on test day.

Why should you make sleep a priority ? A good night’s sleep will help you think more clearly during the test. It will also make it easier to cope with test-taking stress and anxiety. Moreover, excellent sleep habits have been shown to consolidate memory and improve academic performance, as well as reduce the risk of depression and other mental health disorders. 

5. Eat a Healthy Breakfast

Like sleeping, eating is an important part of self-care and test taking preparation. After all, it’s hard to think clearly if your stomach is grumbling.

As tough as it can be to eat when you’re nervous or rushing out the door, plan time in your morning on test day to eat a healthy breakfast. 

A mix of complex carbohydrates and healthy protein will keep you feeling full without making you feel sluggish. Whole wheat cereal, eggs, oatmeal, berries, and nuts may be great choices (depending on your personal dietary needs and preferences). It’s best to avoid foods that are high in sugar, as they can give you a rush of energy that will wear off quickly, leaving you feeling tired.

And don’t forget to drink plenty of water. If possible, bring a bottle of water with you on test day.

6. Arrive Early

Arriving early at a test location can help decrease stress. And it allows you to get into a positive state of mind before the test starts. 

Choose your seat as soon as possible. Organize your materials so they are readily available when you need them. Make sure you are physically comfortable (as much as possible). 

By settling in early, you are giving yourself time to get organized, relaxed, and mentally ready for the test to begin. Even in a high school setting, maximizing the time you have in the test classroom—even if it’s just a couple of minutes—can help you feel more comfortable, settled, and focused before the test begins. 

7. Develop Positive Rituals

Don’t underestimate the importance of confidence and a positive mindset in test preparation. 

Positive rituals can help combat negative thinking, test anxiety, and lack of focus that can easily undermine your success on test day. Plan some extra time to go for a short walk or listen to your favorite music. Engage in simple breathing exercises. Visualize yourself succeeding on the test. 

Your rituals can be totally unique to you. The important thing is developing a calming habit that will boost your confidence, attitude, and concentration when the test begins.

Explore College Programs for High School Students at Harvard Summer School.

Seven Best Test-Taking Tips for Success

You have gotten a good night’s sleep, eaten a healthy breakfast, arrived early, and done your positive test-day ritual. You are ready to start the test! 

Different types of tests require different test taking strategies. You may not want to approach a math test the same way you would an essay test, for example. And some computerized tests such as SATs require you to work through the test in a specific way.

However, there are some general test taking strategies that will improve your chances of getting the grade you want on most, if not all, tests. 

1. Listen to the Instructions

Once the test is front of you, it’s tempting to block everything out so you can get started right away. 

Doing so, however, could cause you to miss out on critical information about the test itself.

The teacher or proctor may offer details about the structure of the test, time limitations, grading techniques, or other items that could impact your approach. They may also point out steps that you are likely to miss or other tips to help improve your chances of success. 

So be sure to pay close attention to their instructions before you get started.

2. Read the Entire Test

If possible, look over the entire test quickly before you get started. Doing so will help you understand the structure of the test and identify areas that may need more or less time. 

Once you read over the test, you can plan out how you want to approach each section of the test to ensure that you can complete the entire test within the allotted time.

3. Do a “Brain Dump”

For certain types of tests, remembering facts, data, or formulas is key. For these tests, it can be helpful to take a few minutes to write down all the information you need on a scrap paper before you get started. 

Putting that important information on paper can relieve stress and help you focus on the test questions without worrying about your ability to recall the facts. And now you have a kind of “cheat sheet” to refer to throughout the test!

4. Answer the Questions You Know First

When possible, do a first pass through the test to answer the “easy” questions or the ones you know right away. When you come to a question that you can’t answer (relatively) quickly, skip it on this first pass. 

Don’t rush through this first pass, but do be mindful of time—you’ll want to leave yourself enough time to go back and answer the questions you skipped. 

* It’s important to remember that this technique is not possible on some tests. Standardized computer-based tests often do not allow you to skip questions and return to them later. On these types of tests, you will need to work through each problem in order instead of skipping around. 

5. Answer the Questions You Skipped

Once you’ve done a first pass, you now have to go back and answer the questions you skipped.

In the best case scenario, you might find some of these questions aren’t as challenging as you thought at first. Your mind is warmed up and you are fully engaged and focused at this point in the test. And answering the questions you know easily may have reminded you of the details you need for these questions.

Of course you may still struggle with some of the questions, and that’s okay. Hopefully doing a first pass somewhat quickly allows you to take your time with the more challenging questions.

6. Be Sure the Test is Complete

Once you think you’ve answered all the questions, double check to make sure you didn’t miss any. Check for additional questions on the back of the paper, for instance, or other places that you might have missed or not noticed during your initial read-through.

A common question is whether you should skip questions that you can’t answer. It’s not possible to answer that question in a general sense: it depends on the specific test and the teacher’s rules. It may also depend on the value of each individual question, and whether your teacher gives partial credit.

But, if you’re not penalized for a wrong answer or you are penalized for leaving an answer blank, it is probably better to put something down than nothing.

7. Check Your Work

Finally, if you have time left, go back through the test and check your answers. 

Read over short answer and essay questions to check for typos, points you may have missed, or better ways to phrase your answers. If there were multiple components to the question, make sure you answered all of them. Double check your answers on math questions in case you made a small error that impacts the final answer. You don’t want to overthink answers, but a doublecheck can help you find—and correct—obvious mistakes.

Four Ways to Cope with Test-Taking Anxiety

Nearly every student gets nervous before a test at some point, especially if the exam is an important one. If you are lucky, your pre-test nervousness is mild and can be mitigated by these test taking tips. 

A mild case of nerves can even be somewhat beneficial (if uncomfortable); the surge of adrenaline at the root of a nervous feeling can keep you focused and energized.

For some students, however, test taking anxiety—a form of performance anxiety—can be debilitating and overwhelming. This level of anxiety can be extremely difficult to cope with. 

However, there are a few things you can do before and during a test to help cope with more severe stress and anxiety:

1. Take a Meditation or Sitting Stretch Break

Take a minute or two before or even during a test to focus on your breathing, relax tense muscles, do a quick positive visualization, or stretch your limbs. The calming effect can be beneficial and worth a few minutes of test time. 

2. Replace Negative Thoughts with Positive Ones

Learn to recognize when your brain is caught in a cycle of negative thinking and practice turning negative thoughts into positive ones. For example, when you catch yourself saying “I’m going to fail”, force yourself to say “I’m going to succeed” instead. With practice, this can be a powerful technique to break the cycle of negative thinking undermining your confidence.

3. Mistakes are Learning Opportunities

It’s easy to get caught up in worrying about a bad grade. Instead, remind yourself that it’s ok to make mistakes. A wrong answer on a test is an opportunity to understand where you need to fill in a gap in your knowledge or spend some extra time studying. 

4. Seek Professional Help

Test taking anxiety is very real and should be taken seriously. If you find that your anxiety does not respond to these calming tips, it’s time to seek professional help. Your guidance counselor or a therapist may be able to offer long-term strategies for coping with test taking anxiety. Talk with your parents or guardians about finding someone to help you cope.

Following these test taking tips can’t guarantee that you will get an A on your next big test. Only hard work and lots of study time can do that. 

However, these test taking strategies can help you feel more confident and perform better on test day. Tests may be an inevitable part of student life, but with preparation and confidence, you can succeed on them all!

Sign up for our mailing list for important information about Harvard Summer School.

About the Author

Digital Content Producer

Emerson is a Digital Content Producer at Harvard DCE. She is a graduate of Brandeis University and Yale University and started her career as an international affairs analyst. She is an avid triathlete and has completed three Ironman triathlons, as well as the Boston Marathon.

Everything You Need to Know About College Summer School: The Complete Guide

This guide will outline the benefits of summer courses and offer tips on how to get the most out of your experience.

Harvard Division of Continuing Education

The Division of Continuing Education (DCE) at Harvard University is dedicated to bringing rigorous academics and innovative teaching capabilities to those seeking to improve their lives through education. We make Harvard education accessible to lifelong learners from high school to retirement.

10 Test-Taking Strategies for Success

Posted on April 11, 2024

By Sophia Learning

Tests are part of the academic experience, whether you’re taking in-person or online courses, prepping for the SATs, ACTs, or AP exams, or sitting for admissions tests like the MCAT or GRE. 

In addition, if you’re planning a career that involves exams for your credentials, such as the state bar exam, the NCLEX for nurse licensing, or the USMLE to become a licensed medical physician, you will need to have strong test-taking techniques. 

As tests become more challenging, studying may not be enough on its own. Effective and consistent preparation is the key to success with your exams. Here are 10 tips to prepare for tests, no matter how big or small. 

Before the Test 

1. develop good study habits .

Understanding and recalling information for a test takes more than an all-night study session. Coursework is scaffolded and cumulative, meaning each new concept builds upon the previous ones. If you never crack a book and try to cram all your studying in at the last minute, your test scores may suffer for it. 

It’s important to develop good study habits long before your big test. Do all your homework assignments and assigned readings, review your notes, and prepare your own study guides. If you have an opportunity to prepare with practice tests or optional assignments, take advantage of them. Sophia courses include a mix of flashcards and other study tools, interactive practice opportunities, and practice Milestone tests to help you prepare. 

2. Get a Good Night’s Sleep 

Showing up to a test well-rested is one of the most crucial aspects of success. Being well-rested helps your recall and your ability to articulate your thoughts in a clear and concise manner. If you’re tired and foggy, you may not be able to think clearly. 

In fact, good sleep habits are important for your entire academic performance before, during, and after testing. Lack of sleep impacts both short- and long-term memory, and regular rest is integral to memory consolidation, the process of preserving vital memories and discarding irrelevant information. 

3. Give Yourself Time  

Taking an exam often comes with a little anxiety and stress, even if you’re confident in the material. The last thing you need is to be in a rush before or during the test and adding to your stress. 

On the day of a test, get up a little early and take your time. Eat a healthy breakfast (or lunch, depending on the time), and review your notes or flashcards one last time. Avoid excess sugar or caffeine, which can leave you feeling tired in the middle of your exam. If your exam time is flexible, choose a time of day when you know you can really focus.   

4. Find the Right Location 

If you have to travel for your test, get there early and give yourself time to get organized and settled before the test begins. If you have materials for your test, such as notecards, a calculator, or other permitted tools and materials, make sure you have them ready to go the night before. 

Something simple, such as a traffic jam or car trouble, can leave you locked out of your test. Giving yourself extra time ensures you’re not rushing, or worse, showing up to locked doors because you were late. 

If your exam is offered remotely, choose a quiet, comfortable place with a stable internet connection where you can take the test without interruption.   

5. Don’t Cram 

As mentioned, if you cram, you may not earn high scores, but there are bigger things at stake. Some people have excellent recall and can cram for a test and ace it. However, that often comes with forgetting most of the information shortly after. 

All of your courses have value in your academic journey. Some are even essential to prepare for your advanced coursework that will prepare you for your career. If you only retain the information long enough to get a good test score, you’re only getting a good grade – not the true education you need for success in your job role. 

In addition, cramming has a negative impact on your sleep quality, stress levels, and overall preparedness. Your education is a marathon, not a sprint. 

During the Test 

6. read the instructions carefully .

Though it may be tempting, don’t dive right into the test. Read – and re-read – the instructions to ensure you understand any rules or guidelines for the test. Make sure you understand the test structure, length, and time limit before you begin. 

If possible, look over the entire test briefly before beginning, which may give you insights into which sections may take a little more or less time. Then, you can plan how you want to approach the test to complete as much as possible within the allotted time. 

7. Answer the Questions You Know Early 

It can be tempting to tackle the hardest or most time-consuming questions first, but that can leave you without adequate time to complete enough for a good score. When you’re looking over the test, answer the questions you know first. If you come to a question that you can’t answer quickly, skip it and come back later. If possible, mark the questions that you’ve skipped so you can easily find them again. 

Don’t rush your first pass, but try not to dwell on any questions. You want to be sure you’ll have time to go back and answer the questions you skipped. 

While this technique can be helpful for some types of tests, including Sophia Milestones, some testing formats don’t permit you to skip questions and go back later. With these, you will need to work through each question before moving onto the next. This is often by design. 

8. Return to Skipped Questions 

After your first pass, return to the questions you skipped. It’s possible that the warmup from answering the other questions will make these easier. 

However, if you’re still struggling, you have more leeway to take your time. Don’t be afraid to use the same technique of skipping questions if you’re stuck and moving on, then returning to them later. It’s better to have a few missed questions than running out the clock while you dwell on one. 

9. Make Sure Your Test Is Complete and Check for Errors 

This can depend on the format of the test. If your exam is timed, you may not have an opportunity to check it over one last time. If you do, make sure you’ve answered all the questions. Even if you think you’re finished, check through the entire test again to ensure you haven’t missed any questions. 

While it’s good to check for errors, avoid second-guessing yourself. There’s a difference between realizing an earlier answer isn’t correct and doubting yourself. Only make changes if you’re sure you’ve made a mistake. 

After the Test 

10. reflect on the experience .

Take a breather once the test is complete but prepare to think about where you can improve for the future. Consider strategies or techniques that would have helped, questions you struggled with or couldn’t answer, and how you can prepare better for the next test. 

If you did well, you should consider what contributed to your success and how you can use that information in the future. If you didn’t do as well as you had hoped, consider it an opportunity to learn from your test-taking experience and develop better strategies moving forward. 

Develop Your Test-Taking Skills

Tests and exams can cause anxiety and stress even if you’re prepared, but far more if you’re not. When you can approach an exam with confidence that you know the material and did the work, it’s much easier to perform well. 

Category: Student Success

Subscribe to our blog

About once a month, we'll send you Sophia news, educational insights, and more. Only the good stuff - we promise.

*All fields are required.

Start a free trial no credit card required!

Try a Sophia course for free. Your free trial work is applied toward course credit when you become a member.

• Privacy policy
• Cookie policy
• Terms of use

Get Free Profile Evaluation

How to Prepare for a Test: Top 11 Test Prep Strategies

Struggling with test-taking? This article explores 11 effective strategies to improve your test-taking skills to help you achieve better exam results.

From pop quizzes to standardized testing, exams are a big part of education. Of course, understanding the material thoroughly is key to achieving a good grade, but knowing how to prepare for a test will make a big difference. Mastering key test prep strategies can help you alleviate exam stress and anxiety.

Therefore, these comprehensive test prep strategies will equip you with the necessary tools to succeed in any exam .

Top 11 Test Prep Strategies

Employ active learning techniques.

Passive reading is not the most effective way to retain information. Engage in active learning techniques such as summarizing concepts in your own words, teaching the material to someone else, or creating flashcards for quick review.

Use Past Exams or Sample Questions to Practice

Using past exams or sample questions is not only an effective study technique but also helps you work on your time management skills . For example, using resources and technology at your disposal is one of the best time management techniques. That’s because you’ll be working smarter, not harder! 

So, if available, complete these past exams to get an idea of what you may be asked and become familiar with the exam's style. Aim to complete your practice exams within the time constraints to simulate the test experience. 

Create a Study Group

Another beneficial tip when learning how to prepare for a test is to create a study group. Explaining and talking about concepts with your team will help you solidify your knowledge, gain different perspectives, and learn from others. 

Make Use of Mnemonic Devices

Mnemonic devices are memory aids that help you remember information by associating it with something easier to remember. For example, creating a song about the materials you’re studying is a mnemonic device. You can also use acronyms, visual imagery, or rhymes to memorize lists, formulas, or important concepts.

Seek Clarification

Asking for help or clarification is key in test prep strategies ! If you have any doubts or questions about the material, don't hesitate to ask your teacher or classmates. You can also consult online resources to make sure you have a thorough understanding of the topic.

Incorporate a Meditation or Sitting Stretch Break

Did you know these calming practices can prove beneficial in reducing stress and improving your overall test-taking experience ? Devote one or two minutes before or during your test to relaxation. For example, you can focus on your breathing, release any tension in your body, or even visualize a positive outcome.

Aim for 20-30 Study Sessions

Multiple 20-30 minute study sessions help your brain retain more information than trying to sit and study for several hours. If you don’t have much time, make sure you incorporate 10-15 minute breaks every half hour to allow your brain to rest and process what you're studying.

Prioritize Sleep

Are you asking yourself what to do before a test? One of the most important things is to prioritize sleep. Staying up late and cramming on the nights leading up to your test may be tempting, but it will do more harm than good. 

Getting enough sleep the week of your exam will help you stay alert during the test, improve your long-term memory, and reduce your stress levels. 

Another crucial thing to do before a test is to eat well. You should aim to eat slow-release carbohydrates and proteins while steering clear of anything packed with sugar. 

If your exam is in the afternoon, then ideally, you should have lunch at least one to two hours before your test so you don’t feel that afternoon slump while taking the exam.

Create Your Own Test Questions

Did you know that creating your own test questions helps you think critically? Think about the things you're most likely going to be tested on and aim to devise the trickiest questions to challenge your knowledge. 

For instance, if you have a history test about the French Revolution, you can come up with a question like, "what motivated the people to revolt against the French king?”

Brain Dump Once The Exam Begins

Another key test prep strategy is to write out any facts or formulae you’ve been struggling to remember on scrap paper as soon as you’re allowed to write. This takes the information out of working memory and frees your brain to do its best work.

FAQs: How to Prepare for a Test

Learning how to prepare for a test is essential, but it often raises questions about the best methods and practices. This section will address frequently asked questions about test-prepping strategies to provide you with the best practical tips to maximize your test-taking skills.

1. What Should I Do Before a Test?

Before your test, you should cultivate good study habits , such as completing assignments on time, reviewing notes daily, and creating study guides. It’s best to avoid cramming the night before the test. Instead, organize all the necessary materials, and get a full night's sleep. Additionally, prioritize a healthy breakfast to fuel your mind. Aim to arrive early at the test location so you reduce stress and have time to mentally and physically prepare. 

2. What Not to Do Right Before a Test?

Going into the test unprepared significantly decreases your chances of success, so it’s never a good idea to walk in blind without studying. But one of the worst things you can do is put off studying until the last minute and cram the night before. 

Plus, you don’t want to drink too many caffeinated beverages or have too many sugary snacks before an exam. 

3. What Is the Best Way to Prepare for a Test?

Give yourself ample time to study a few weeks before the exam, and try to use old exams or practice questions. Read your notes out loud and try to teach the concepts you’re learning to other people. You can also create flashcards or organize a study group.

4. How Do You Physically Prepare for a Test?

Preparing yourself physically for a test involves getting adequate sleep in the weeks leading up to the exam. You should also aim to eat healthy and exercise. Try incorporating meditation and yoga into your routine to help reduce stress and improve memory.

Final Thoughts

Learning how to prepare for a test is more than just memorizing these top 11 strategies. It’s about developing effective study habits to help you become a life-long learner and equip you with valuable personal and professional skills. 

It's important to recognize that no universal test prep strategy works for everyone, so don’t be shy to experiment with different strategies and discover what works best for you.

Embrace the opportunity for personal growth, and witness your transformation into a successful student equipped with skills that extend far beyond the boundaries of academia.

Book Your Free Assessment Today

Take Control of Homework

Find the right college for you, don't let it control you..

Although very few students love homework, it does serve a purpose. Homework helps you:

• Reinforce what you've learned during the day.
• Build study habits that are essential in college.
• Prepare for your classes.
• Get a sense of progress.

College life involves a lot of adjustments for students. Will you have homework in college? Yes. And it can be one of the most daunting tasks you face there. Out-of-the-classroom learning is part of the college experience and essential for academic success. The good news is that learning some homework tips now will make it easier to do college homework later.

Set the Mood.

Create a good study area with everything you need (e.g., a calculator). If you don't have a quiet place at home, try your local library.

Know Where to Begin.

Make a list of everything you need to do. Note all deadlines. Do the more challenging assignments first so you don't have to face them at the end.

Study at the Same Time Every Day.

Even if you don't have homework every night, use the time to review notes. If sitting down to work is part of your everyday routine, you'll approach it with less dread. Also, you'll become a pro at using time productively.

Keep Things in Perspective.

Know how much weight each assignment or test carries. Use your time accordingly.

Get More Involved.

Keep your mind from wandering by taking notes, underlining sections, discussing topics with others, or relating your homework to something you're studying in another class.

Organize the Information.

People process information in different ways. Some people like to draw pictures or charts to digest information, while others prefer to read aloud or make detailed outlines. Try to find the methods that work best for you. Ask your teacher for recommendations if you're having trouble.

Take Advantage of Any Free Time.

If you have a study period or a long bus ride, use the time to review notes, prepare for an upcoming class, or start your homework.

Study with a Friend.

Get together with friends and classmates to quiz each other, compare notes, and predict test questions. Consider joining a study group.

Communicate.

If you have concerns about the amount or type of homework, talk to your family, teachers, or counselor. They can help you understand how much time you need to allot for homework and how to manage your tasks.

Celebrate Your Achievements.

Reward yourself for hitting milestones or doing something unusually well.

Related Articles

The Learning Strategies Center

• Meet the Staff
• –Supplemental Course Schedule
• AY Course Offerings
• Anytime Online Modules
• Winter Session Workshop Courses
• –About Tutoring
• –Office Hours and Tutoring Schedule
• –LSC Tutoring Opportunities
• –How to Use Office Hours
• –Campus Resources and Support
• –Student Guide for Studying Together
• –Find Study Partners
• –Productivity Power Hour
• –Effective Study Strategies
• –Concept Mapping
• –Guidelines for Creating a Study Schedule
• –Five-Day Study Plan
• –What To Do With Practice Exams
• –Consider Exam Logistics
• –Online Exam Checklist
• –Open-Book Exams
• –How to Tackle Exam Questions
• –What To Do When You Get Your Graded Test (or Essay) Back
• –The Cornell Note Taking System
• –Learning from Digital Materials
• –3 P’s for Effective Reading
• –Textbook Reading Systems
• –Online Learning Checklist
• –Things to Keep in Mind as you Participate in Online Classes
• –Learning from Online Lectures and Discussions
• –Online Group Work
• –Learning Online Resource Videos
• –Start Strong!
• –Effectively Engage with Classes
• –Plans if you Need to Miss Class
• –Managing Time
• –Managing Stress
• –The Perils of Multitasking
• –Break the Cycle of Procrastination!
• –Finish Strong
• –Neurodiversity at Cornell
• –LSC Scholarship
• –Pre-Collegiate Summer Scholars Program
• –Study Skills Workshops
• –Private Consultations
• –Resources for Advisors and Faculty
• –Presentation Support (aka Practice Your Talk on a Dog)
• –About LSC
• –Meet The Team
• –Contact Us

Five-Day Study Plan

Don’t cram, use a five-day study plan.

• Figure out what you need to know in (“prepare”).
• Make sure you know it (“review”).
• Start in advance & switch things up.

1. Preparing study material for an exam is an active process. This is where you identify, organize, and consolidate your material. You want to end up with a study guide, flash cards, quizlets, concept maps, practice test questions that you made up, etc. (Don’t just passively re-write your notes or re-read a chapter–instead make something new.) Staring this five days before your exam helps solidify the material, plus it gives you time to identify what you still don’t understand so you can get your questions answered.

2. Reviewing the material you prepared should also be active-this is where you figure out how much you actually know and what you still need to work on. Try “blank page testing,” quizzing yourself or a friend, and/or taking practice exams.

Some Examples of Preparation and Review Strategies

3. Switch up preparation and review People learn faster and perform better if they work in brief blocks of time spread out over longer periods of time, rather than in a few lengthy “cram” sessions. For example:

• You will perform better on an exam if you spend one hour studying each day for 20 days than if you spend 10 hours studying each day for two days before the test.
• It is easier to learn to shoot a 3-pointer better if you practice a little bit each day for a month rather than have one marathon session in an afternoon.
• You will learn the tuba best if you practice a little each day (though your roommate may disagree about anything regarding you learning the tuba–fair enough).

Put that principle to work by mixing up preparation and review. Don’t do all of your preparation, then stop that and do all of your review. Mix them up to learn best! (Use this principle to your advantage when you need to prepare for multiple exams/projects simultaneously–it can be a great silver lining in those stressful times to know that going back and forth to work on multiple subjects helps you learn each one better.)How to Make a Five-Day Study Plan

• Break the material on the exam into chunks or groups of material. (By chapter? Topic? Lecture? You decide what makes sense depending on your class.) For the example below, we will use 4 chunks or groups of material (A, B, C, and D). For example, Chunk A might be chapters 1-2, Chunk B is chapter 3, Chunk C is chapters 4-5, and Chunk D is chapter 6.
• Plan to spend about 2 hours studying on each of the five days.
• Work with the material in 2 ways: preparation and review.
• Decide what preparation and review strategies will work best for you, and include those on your five-day study plan chart. Click here for a downloadable word document of a Five-Day Study Plan .

Sample Five-Day Study Plan ChartClick here for a downloadable word document of   A Five-Day Study Plan .You will have to get creative with your plan for those times when you have two or three prelims or other big assignments in the same week. During the five days you are studying for your exam be kind to your future self and don’t neglect your other courses! Would you like to learn more?

• Memory: Why cramming for tests often fails
• Why Cramming Doesn’t Work
• Back to School: Cramming Doesn’t Work in the Long Term
• The Importance of Having a Study Plan
• 5 Reasons Personalized Study Plans are Effective

Up Next: What do you do with practice exams?

References:

Blerkom, D. L. (2012). Orientation to college learning (7 edition). Boston: Engage

Blerkom, D. L. and Mulcahy-Ernt, P. I. (2004). College reading and study strategies. Boston: Cengage.

Texas A&M University Academic Success Center (n.d.).  5 day study plan . https://asc.tamu.edu/study-learning-handouts/5-day-study-plan

Login or sign up to be automatically entered into our next $10,000 scholarship giveaway

Get Started

• College Search
• College Search Map
• Graduate Programs
• Featured Colleges
• Scholarship Search
• Lists & Rankings
• User Resources

Articles & Advice

• All Categories
• Ask the Experts
• Campus Visits
• Catholic Colleges and Universities
• Christian Colleges and Universities
• College Admission
• College Athletics
• College Diversity
• Counselors and Consultants
• Education and Teaching
• Financial Aid
• Graduate School
• Health and Medicine
• International Students
• Internships and Careers
• Majors and Academics
• Performing and Visual Arts
• Public Colleges and Universities
• Science and Engineering
• Student Life
• Transfer Students
• Why CollegeXpress
• $10,000 Scholarship
• CollegeXpress Store
• Corporate Website
• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• CA and EU Privacy Policy

Articles & Advice > Majors and Academics > Articles

Our Best Advice for Homework, Studying, and Tests

Homework, studying, and tests, oh my! There's just so much work to be done, but don't stress. You can make your studies easier by checking out our best advice.

by CollegeXpress

Last Updated: Sep 5, 2023

Originally Posted: Nov 26, 2021

Homework, studying, and tests make up a huge bulk of your academic life whether you’re in high school or college—and they can also be difficult and draining. So to help you get through this semester and beyond, we’ve compiled our best advice to help you get your schoolwork done. From tips to work smarter to playlists for your study sessions to the best snacks for your brain power, we’ve got everything you need right here to ace all your assignments and tests. (And don’t worry about any content labeled “for college students” or “high school”; most of this advice can help students of any age.) Good luck with your studies!

Learning how you study best

• Infographic: Find Your Learning Style and Study Smarter : You know the saying: Study smarter, not harder. And there's no smarter way to study than figuring out how you learn best.
• 5 Smart Study Tips for All Students : Some things about studying don’t change whether you’re in high school or college. These five tips will help you study smarter for better grades at any level.
• 5 College Study Tips That Will Make Your Life Easier : Despite the previous advice, a lot of things about studying will change when you get to college. Here are five tips to make the transition easier.
• 6 Creative Study Tips for College Students : These creative study methods will help you refine your study approach for your learning style so you can enjoy it a little more along the way.
• 5 Things You Need for Your Next Study Session : Any good study session should include a few key things. So before you kick it off, make sure you set yourself up for success.
• Top 5 Study Tips From a College Freshman : Who better to give you study tips than a college freshman who’s learned how to adapt from high school to college-level schoolwork? Check out their insider advice!

Boosting your academic skills

• How to Improve Your Time Management and Study Skills : Worried about doing well in all your classes with so much homework, so many tests to study for, and not enough time in the day? Don’t be! Here’s some great advice to make it work. 
• How to Get Organized and Manage Your Time as a High School Student : Struggling to get it together? These simple tips can help you get organized, get homework done efficiently, and manage your time better in high school.
• How Can I Improve My Memorization for School? : While memorization isn't the ideal way to learn, sometimes it's needed. One of our experts has eight quick methods for you to try out.
• How to Balance Homework and Internships in High School : A big part of being responsible with your academics is learning how to balance them with everything else. Here’s how you can succeed in your classes and an after-school internship.
• A Step-by-Step Guide for an Effective Research Paper : Mastering the art of the research paper is one thing you need to learn for college. Here are some tips for effective writing.
• Video: Top 10 Ways to Avoid Procrastination : Procrastination is the killer of all productivity. A sure-fire way to boost your academic skills is to stop procrastinating and do the work with these 10 tips.

Preparing for finals and AP tests

• 3 Important Tricks to Help You Survive Finals Week : Wondering just how you’re going to make it through finals? Here are three keys to making it out alive by the end of your tests.
• 21 Apps to Get You Through Finals This Semester : Finals week is always a stressful time, and even more so if you have to manage finals from home. Here are 21 apps that will make exam season easier.
• 9 Study Tips to Help You Conquer AP Tests : Whether you're tackling your very first test this year or prepping for your very last one, these 10 study tips will help you score high on any AP exam.
• The 5 Best Ways to Handle AP Exam Stress : It’s never too early to prepare yourself for AP tests, but it certainly can be too late. Here’s some advice for handling AP exam stress to prep you ahead of time.
• Poetry Study Guide for AP English Language & Literature : Check out our quick poetry review that can help you score high on AP English tests, both Literature and Language.

Studying for standardized tests

• When Should I Start Studying for the ACT or SAT? : If you're wondering when to start studying for standardized tests, that’s good news—you probably like to be prepared, which can only help you ace your exam. Here's some expert advice on when to start prepping.
• How to Prepare for the ACT, SAT, and Other Tests : This standardized test guide covers the ACT, SAT, AP tests, and more. It's basically everything you need to know to get ready for your high school exams!
• 2 Easy Study Tips for Both Admission and Language Tests : The SAT. The ACT. AP tests. And the TOEFL too? International students have a lot to juggle, but the test prep pros at Magoosh are here for you.
• 4 Awesome (and Free) SAT Prep Resources : Looking for resources to help you get ready for the SAT? Check out these four fun, easy-to-use, and totally free online test prep resources!
• The Best ACT Test Prep Sites, Books, and More : These are simply the best ACT prep resources available, from websites to books and beyond, plus other helpful tips for doing well on this college admission test.
• How to Tackle the Hardest Parts of the ACT : The ACT is pretty tough overall, but some sections are more difficult than others! Luckily, familiarizing yourself with the harder parts can help you maximize your study time.

Taking care of yourself

• How Important Is Sleep to Academic Success? : Better sleep is a key component to better studying in college. Here's how you can improve your sleep and in turn boost your academic performance.
• The Best Study Snacks for Healthy Eating in College : With finals stress, a lot of students turn to food for comfort and not always in the best way. Read on to learn how to snack healthily this finals season.
• Feeling Burnt Out? 5 Steps to Get Back on Track : If you feel like you're in a studying rut, here are five ways to fight burnout and work your way out of it.
• College Stress Solutions for Academic Anxiety : Stress from college coursework is no joke, but there are methods you can employ to ease that stress, including these solutions from a college expert.
• How to Create Smart, Long-Lasting Habits in High School : It's important to develop good study skills and healthy habits that you can carry from high school to college. Read these tips and find what works best for you!

Making your studies more fun

• 5 Simple Ways You Can Make Studying More Fun : How do you make studying more fun? It's often a matter of managing your time, scheduling intensive periods as well as breaks, giving yourself small rewards, and creating the right environment.
• Great Study Playlists for All Your High School Classes : Who doesn't need a little musical inspiration to face their chemistry homework head on? These four playlists for all types of classes should do the trick!
• Top 5 Ambience Playlists to Soundtrack Your Studies : Looking for a great instrumental playlist to create the perfect distraction-free atmosphere for studying? Check out student writer Hailey's top picks on YouTube and Spotify!
• Easy Ways to Make Studying for Standardized Tests Fun : We know, we know—studying for standardized tests is never going to actually be fun, but these ideas can certainly make it more bearable and enjoyable to get through.
• Fun SAT Vocab Prep With the Dictionary of Difficult Words : The Dictionary of Difficult Words is a children's book that's useful for all ages, especially students studying for the SAT. Unwind and review your vocab at the same time with this unconventional test prep book!
• The CollegeXpress SAT Word Game : Our SAT Word Game will help you study for the test and participate in a little friendly competition with other CollegeXpress students. Can you make it on our leaderboard?

We've compiled our top-tier content for other topics too, like how to find internships and the best advice for transferring. Check them out using the tag  "our best advice."

Like what you’re reading?

Join the CollegeXpress community! Create a free account and we’ll notify you about new articles, scholarship deadlines, and more.

Tags: college academics high school academics homework our best advice study skills study smarter studying test prep

Join our community of over 5 million students!

CollegeXpress has everything you need to simplify your college search, get connected to schools, and find your perfect fit.

High School Class of 2022

Starting the college admissions process as an international student was daunting. Thankfully, CollegeXpress was the first website I used for that cause and it helped me so much, from knowing where to start to deciding what my next move would be. I'll take a gap year, but I’m certainly using the website again when applying for fall 2023.

Fabiola Rodriguez

CollegeXpress helped me on my journey to get to the school of my first choice by showing me all the options I have. I didn’t know of the College of Southern Nevada until I went on this website, and it helped me look for other choices and compare what colleges would be right for me.

Tinuola Dada

$2,000 Community Service Scholarship Winner, 2015

I am very excited to be this year's recipient of the Multicultural Student Community Service Scholarship. This scholarship will bring me ever closer to my academic and professional goals. CollegeXpress has been an exceptional resource to me, and I recommend it to all rising seniors as they begin to navigate the college application process.

Joan Franklin

I love this website and have been using it for years with my students. I originally bought products through Wintergreen Orchard House and appreciated having key facts at my fingertips when advising students. Your site is easy to access and offers a wide array of topics I need as a busy college counselor.

Maurice Whan

$2,000 Spring Scholarship Contest Winner, 2021

This year has been tough for my family and myself, so receiving this scholarship has been a blessing in disguise! CollegeXpress has been an excellent resource in helping me prepare financially for college. Thank you again for this amazing opportunity!

•   7 of the Best Study Methods for Finals Week
•   Helpful Tips for Better Attention and Focus in the Classroom
•   Cultivating a Growth Mindset: How to Embrace Your Unique Creative Abilities
•   Our Best Advice on Building Important Skills as a Student
•   Your Ultimate Guide to a 4.0 Grade Point Average

Colleges You May Be Interested In

Drake University

Des Moines, IA

University of Louisiana at Lafayette

Lafayette, LA

Grace College

Winona Lake, IN

Salve Regina University

Newport, RI

Hofstra University

Hempstead, NY

Personalize your experience on CollegeXpress.

With this information, we'll display content relevant to your interests. By subscribing, you agree to receive CollegeXpress emails and to make your information available to colleges, scholarship programs, and other companies that have relevant/related offers.

Already have an account?

Log in to be directly connected to

Not a CollegeXpress user?

Don't want to register.

Provide your information below to connect with

8 Study Tips To Prepare for a Test

• Study Skills
• Test Prep Strategies
• SAT Test Prep
• ACT Test Prep
• GRE Test Prep
• LSAT Test Prep
• Certifications
• Homework Help
• Private School
• College Admissions
• College Life
• Graduate School
• Business School
• Distance Learning

• B.A., English, University of Michigan

Interested in getting a better grade on every single test that you take? I bet you didn't know that when you sit down to study, there are actually study tips that can help you make the most of your time. Oh. You did know? Well, good. Perhaps that's why you're on this page! You wanted to learn more about these eight study tips so you can learn the test information faster, stay focused longer, and get a score that's higher than you'd get going it alone.

Take a peek at the following study tips to get ready for the next test you take in school. 

Focus On Studying

So, you sit down to study and you can't seem to keep your mind on your work, huh? Relax. This article has you covered because it has the tricks and tips to keep you on the right track. Read here for concrete ways to fix your wandering attention and stay focused on Napoleon's conquests, the Pythagorean Theorem, your multiplication tables, or whatever else it is you're supposed to be learning.

Study Smart For Any Test

Got a multiple-choice test coming up? An essay exam? The Redesigned SAT ? Need to know how to cram for your test in an hour? A few hours? A few days? Check out this list for study skills tips related to major tests, minor tests, and every single one of those tests and quizzes in between.

Study In One of These 10 Places

Okay. We all know that studying in the middle of a hockey game is probably not ideal. So, where is a good place to park it, get out your notes, and learn some material? This study skills tip describes ten great places to learn a little bit about something new. Nope, your great-aunt's funeral is not one of them, but we can understand why you're tempted.

Listen To Music Designed For Studying

Theorists argue about the efficacy of playing music while studying, but every good student knows that absolute quiet can sometimes send you flying off the nearest balcony. Check here for twenty-five lyric-free tunes sure to get you through your next study session, (and safely to your next class.) There are also links to study music spots on Pandora and Spotify, too. 

Avoid The Top 7 Study Distractions

This study skills tip is invaluable because it lets you know which distractions to watch out for before you pick up your notes. Here, you'll find five internal distractions and five external distractions with quick, easy fixes, so you can be at the top of your game when you learn the test material.

Use Mnemonic Devices

Roy G. Biv is not your crazy cousin's new boyfriend. It's an acronym used by school kids to remember the colors of the rainbow (although the "indigo" and "violet" colors are often replaced by purple). But that's beside the point. Using an acronym, one of many mnemonic devices, to remember something is smart! Mnemonic devices can aid your memory when you're trying to cram famous battles, scientific formulas, and dead poets' last words into your brain before a test. This article gives you a few more.

Eat Brain Food To Boost Memory

Nope. Pizza doesn't qualify as brain food. 

No one's claiming that the choline inside of an egg will get you testing into the 98th percentile on the SAT. But it can't hurt, right? An egg is just one of the foods your body uses to pump up the brain (in a good, non-habit-forming way.) See here for more brain foods proven to boost memory, enhance brain function, and make you less hungry. 

Find Time to Study

Time management is tough. No one knows that more than a student! If you're trying to fit study time into your busy life, while maintaining your health, happiness, and the programs patiently waiting on your DVR, then this study skills tip will truly help you out. Here, you'll learn how to get rid of time drains, schedule study time, and actually have some time left for a little fun. 

• 7 Study Tips Smart Students Use
• Study Tips for Better Grades
• How to Study the Night Before a Test
• Setting Up a Study Schedule
• How to Prepare for a Test in 3 Months
• Best Ways to Study for Economics Exams
• Preparing for Final Exams
• How to Study for a Test in 5 Days
• Preparing for a Test in One Month
• Tips for Studying for a Midterm Exam
• 10 Ways to Maximize Your Study Time
• 6 Study Tips for Visual Learners
• How to Study For the SAT
• Top 15 Test Tips for Multiple Choice
• Effective Reading Strategies
• How to Prepare for an Exam Two Months Away

UZ Tashkent

Recently viewed courses

Recently viewed.

Find Your Dream School

This site uses various technologies, as described in our Privacy Policy, for personalization, measuring website use/performance, and targeted advertising, which may include storing and sharing information about your site visit with third parties. By continuing to use this website you consent to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use .

   COVID-19 Update: To help students through this crisis, The Princeton Review will continue our "Enroll with Confidence" refund policies. For full details, please click here.

Enter your email to unlock an extra $25 off an SAT or ACT program!

By submitting my email address. i certify that i am 13 years of age or older, agree to recieve marketing email messages from the princeton review, and agree to terms of use., how to study for a test: 10 steps to ace your next test.

We promise your teacher isn’t out to get you. As unpleasant as taking a test can often be, it actually does more than just show your teacher what you know: it can actually help you learn.

Studies have shown that students who are tested regularly actually learn more content and retain it longer than students who have not been tested. Great news for final exams.  Frequent testing has even been shown to help decrease test anxiety.

Not sure how to study for a test? Follow these study tips to make your best grade!

1. Get informed

• textbook chapters and topics the test will cover
• test format

2. Think like your teacher

Your homeworks assignments, quizzes, handouts, daily notes , and classwork are all indicators of what your teacher thinks is important about the information and what might appear on the test.

3. Make your own study aids

When it comes to learning, practice tests work BETTER than simply highlighting or re-reading your notes. So, turn your notes into flashcards or use a flashcard app for memorizing Spanish vocab. Ask your friends to quiz you or write your own practice test.

4. Practice for the inevitable

Outline essays ahead of time. For math tests, do plenty of practice problems similar to ones that you KNOW will appear. Make a list of questions that you think might show up on the test (and then make sure you can answer them!).

Free SAT Practice Tests & Events

Evaluate and improve your SAT score.

5. Study every day

If you have a test in a week, studying a little each day will help you identify tough concepts or weak areas in your knowledge in advance. Can't figure out factoring? Log on to Homework Help and get your questions answered.

6. Cut out the distractions

Distractions make it difficult to pay attention to what you’re doing, which in turn makes it harder to commit facts to memory. Give yourself a leg up by turning off the notifications on your phone, temporarily blocking your favorite websites, or sticking to instrumental music while you study (so you’re not tempted to sing along!). Taking a break every 45 minutes or so will also help you stay focused.

7. Divide big concepts from smaller details

If you're studying a big topic—like the Civil War for history  or cellular processes for biology —try breaking the material you need to study into chunks. Study one battle at a time or one chapter section at a time—and then quiz yourself. Ask yourself questions about what you’ve just studied, and even write your answers down.

8. Don’t neglect the “easy” stuff

Even if you’ve been acing a certain subject or concept all year and think the test will be a breeze, you should still give it a review before the big day. You don’t want to lose points for careless errors or forget to memorize a key geometry formula.

9. Don’t skip school

Missing classes automatically puts you at a disadvantage. Make sure you go to class (especially during the week leading up to the test) and attend any review sessions your teacher holds. Did you have to miss an important class? You can always ask your teacher or one of our tutors  for help catching up.

10. Review the day of the test

Before you take the test, give yourself time for a quick review. Shuffle through those flashcards a couple of times or re-read your chapter outline. This will ensure the material is fresh in your mind.

Still stuck on how to study for a test?

Try an online tutoring session with one of our experts, and get help in 40+ subjects.

Try a Free Session

Explore Colleges For You

Connect with our featured colleges to find schools that both match your interests and are looking for students like you.

Career Quiz

Take our short quiz to learn which is the right career for you.

Get Started on Athletic Scholarships & Recruiting!

Join athletes who were discovered, recruited & often received scholarships after connecting with NCSA's 42,000 strong network of coaches.

Best 389 Colleges

165,000 students rate everything from their professors to their campus social scene.

SAT Prep Courses

1400+ course, act prep courses, free sat practice test & events,  1-800-2review, overcome your test anxiety with our new test-success course.

Free MCAT Practice Test

I already know my score.

MCAT Self-Paced 14-Day Free Trial

Enrollment Advisor

1-800-2REVIEW (800-273-8439) ext. 1

1-877-LEARN-30

Mon-Fri 9AM-10PM ET

Sat-Sun 9AM-8PM ET

Student Support

1-800-2REVIEW (800-273-8439) ext. 2

Mon-Fri 9AM-9PM ET

Sat-Sun 8:30AM-5PM ET

Partnerships

• Teach or Tutor for Us

College Readiness

International

Advertising

Affiliate/Other

• Enrollment Terms & Conditions
• Accessibility
• Cigna Medical Transparency in Coverage

Register Book

Local Offices: Mon-Fri 9AM-6PM

• SAT Subject Tests

Academic Subjects

• Social Studies

Find the Right College

• College Rankings
• College Advice
• Applying to College
• Financial Aid

School & District Partnerships

• Professional Development
• Advice Articles
• Private Tutoring
• Mobile Apps
• Local Offices
• International Offices
• Work for Us
• Affiliate Program
• Partner with Us
• Advertise with Us
• International Partnerships
• Our Guarantees
• Accessibility – Canada

Privacy Policy | CA Privacy Notice | Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information | Your Opt-Out Rights | Terms of Use | Site Map

©2024 TPR Education IP Holdings, LLC. All Rights Reserved. The Princeton Review is not affiliated with Princeton University

TPR Education, LLC (doing business as “The Princeton Review”) is controlled by Primavera Holdings Limited, a firm owned by Chinese nationals with a principal place of business in Hong Kong, China.

globeteacher.com

How Does Homework Help You Prepare For Tests

A lot is taught at school and it is not always possible to sit and down and interact with each student individually to unearth where s/he is lagging behind. Schoolwork serves as a unit of measurement for a student’s grasp over a particular subject or topic. It allows the teacher to assess how well or how poorly as student is catching up with the daily proceedings of the class. Homework help college enables students as well to self-assess their strong and weak areas and resolve their problems accordingly.

Test performance

Homework tends to expand beyond the realms of what is taught at school. In doing so, it pushes the student to partake in research exercises as often s/he has to dig up extra materials in order to keep up with class lectures. As a result, especially for subjects that require you to refer to multiple sources of information, one can provide a better output in his/her answers in their respective tests than the average performer. It firms the student’s grip on a particular topic.

Homework help answers: developing habits

Benefits of homework are many and people will always be mentioning one or the other but in order to reap its harvests, one has to make it a habit to do their homework on a regular basis. Cross-checking of test questions and tasks that the teacher sets for the students throughout the year, on a particular subject, will reveal how if a student does his /her homework regularly, s/he are bound to find familiar questions in their tests.

Homework as a habit makes the student learn the subject in a smooth process and relaxes any form of tension that test-preparation at the eleventh hour might exert; one is able to retain a lot from the school curriculum through this habit.

To help improve oneself

In this busy world parents don’t have time for their children in order to sit with them and help them with their homework; not everyone can afford a paid tutor; for college students living away, far away from their homes, the few resorts they have, if a doubt is ever to arise, are their professors, books and the internet; while some are just too busy with other work (mostly non-academic) and several, too lazy. For these folks there are service providers who help them with their homework and related doubts in exchange of a certain sum of money.

These groups or organization or firms or however they call themselves, employ skilled professionals to solve your problems regarding your homework. They will do an essay for you, solve your trigonometry problems, write your term paper and so on. Their charges are not sky-high but there is no compromise with quality. If chosen wisely, students can avail themselves the best homework service .

Since these firms and organizations mostly work online, their services can be easily availed whenever and from wherever one feels like. Then again it is this online feature of these services that fraudsters tend to exploit to dupe one of his/her money. So it is necessary to choose wisely.

Learning Corner

• Where Do I Start?
• All Worksheets
• Improve Performance
• Manage & Make Time
• Procrasti-NOT
• Works Cited/Referenced/Researched
• Remote & Online Learning
• Less Stress
• How-To Videos

You are here

Daily practice.

Homework in college will likely look, feel, and be used differently than the homework you were assigned in high school, and it's possible there won't be any homework assigned at all. If this is the case, make it a point to give yourself some homework (finding practice problems, doing outside readings, making mind-maps about all that you've learned, etc.). And, If you are assigned homework, do your best to take full advantage of it.

Homework is your opportunity to practice what you've learned in class, or to test your learning and find gaps where you need to engage in additional research or testing or practice. Homework is there to help you learn the content fully. It's your chance to practice what you know so you’re fully prepared to perform on your test. If you're working to identify/solve/explain/connect as a part of your daily learning practice, then you're working to remember, and when you get into your tests you'll draw on your memories as you retrieve your answers.

Common types of homework might be practice problems, practice questions, assigned reading, assigned videos, quizzes covering what you've read or viewed, discussion board posts, interviews/experiences, self-reflections, etc.

The goal of these activities is to give you hands-on practice with the concepts and problems, and to get you thinking about what you know and/or don't know, as well as why something is used or solved in the way that it is. Have you already read about the memory process ? If not, give it a look, and if you have then you'll remember that engaging in repetition and elaboration are aspects of the learning and memory process that will help you to remember the material for the long-term. Simultaneously, this practice will show you what you know well and what you need to spend more time learning. All of these skills play a part in self-monitoring, which is what helps to give you an accurate picture of how you’ll do on your tests.

To make the most of your homework practice, and to be sure the homework is preparing you for the test, consider the following tips so you can be most effective in your practice approach:

• Don’t take shortcuts . Looking up answers immediately or simply guessing until you get an answer right doesn’t actually teach you the material. If you notice a pattern but aren't entirely sure why it's there, find out. If you feel like you just don't know it, ask yourself to sit with the problem just a little bit longer to see what you might be able to pull from your memory. Actively engaging with information in order to gain comprehension is what makes homework most effective, and the work to find the answer without looking it up is one of the ways you can be actively engaged.
• See problem-sets as opportunities to test yourself . Self-testing and practice testing are some of the most effective ways to study, learn, and retain information (Dunlosky, 2013). You're asking your brain to actively engage again. To be even more effective, think about what types of problems and ideas are being presented. Don't try to memorize individual problems or questions; do all you can to be able to identify the problem type or the concept, and to know what you would apply to achieve a solution/answer. 
• Practice identifying the concepts you’ll be tested on . Every homework problem/question is an example of a concept the instructor wants to make sure you know — it's chosen intentionally. So try to think about why: what does your professor want you to demonstrate that you know? What does your instructor want to see you explain or make connections to? Approaching your preparation like this can help you make sense of how problems are designed and also get you thinking about how they relate to the larger concepts in the course.
• Mix up problems from different chapters and parts of the term . This mixing increases retention and retrieval (Roediger, 2013), helps keep you from falling into a familiarity trap, and let's you start thinking about how all of the content you've been learning is connected and informs itself.
• Work toward comprehension .  If you’re struggling to understand how to do a problem or answer a question, revisit the text/your notes and examine the information again. If it still doesn’t make sense, ask a peer, friend, or your instructor for guidance. Don't be afraid to keep asking until you understand, and if you need to ask again, that's fine.
• If there aren’t enough practice problems or questions, make up your own . One of the best ways to prepare for tests is to try to anticipate possible problems or questions and then answer them.
• Schedule regular blocks of time throughout the week to work on your homework . As in, don't wait to do it all at once on a single huge chunk of time; rather, distribute it over the course of several days. Not only is this a proven strategy for effective learning (it's distributing your practice, and distributed practice has been proven to be one of the most effective ways to prepare for exams) (Dunlosky, 2013)), it's also a way to reduce your stress level because you'll have the time to complete the work at a manageable pace, to take breaks as you need them to refresh, to walk away from problems when it feels like you just can't solve them, and to return ready to to think and focus on the work.
• Overlearn the material . Overlearning means you know the information and how to do a problem so thoroughly that you can retrieve it quickly even during a stressful exam. To achieve this, continue to engage in practice problems or testing yourself beyond getting the answer right just once. Test yourself and practice so you can get it right every time.

If you're already using these strategies, awesome, and if you see some you haven't tried yet that you're interested in exploring, we hope you will. We get that this is all a process, and it's not always easy to make changes to the way that you practice and learn material. But we hope that you'll experiment and add to your strategy toolbox.

We're including a few worksheets below. Check them out for the difference between initial learning and review/practice, new activities to help with the learning process, and what it is to engage in the study cycle.

Want to talk more? Come and see us: Waldo Hall 125 | Monday thru Friday | 9 AM to 5 PM. You don't need an appointment, and our strategists are here to chat with you about all things learning and studying. Strategists are students too, and can offer recommendations and ideas. We can't wait to chat!

active_learning.jpg

study_cycle.jpg

make_it_stick_page_1.jpg

WE'RE HERE TO HELP:

Mon-Fri, 9am to 5pm PST

Our drop-in space will be closed on Mondays from 2-3pm during spring term for a staff meeting.  

Drop in: 125 Waldo Hall

Call us: 541-737-2272

Email us: [email protected]

Use of ASC Materials

Use & Attribution Info

Contact Info

• PRO Courses Guides New Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade Sign In
• EDIT Edit this Article
• EXPLORE Tech Help Pro About Us Random Article Quizzes Request a New Article Community Dashboard This Or That Game Popular Categories Arts and Entertainment Artwork Books Movies Computers and Electronics Computers Phone Skills Technology Hacks Health Men's Health Mental Health Women's Health Relationships Dating Love Relationship Issues Hobbies and Crafts Crafts Drawing Games Education & Communication Communication Skills Personal Development Studying Personal Care and Style Fashion Hair Care Personal Hygiene Youth Personal Care School Stuff Dating All Categories Arts and Entertainment Finance and Business Home and Garden Relationship Quizzes Cars & Other Vehicles Food and Entertaining Personal Care and Style Sports and Fitness Computers and Electronics Health Pets and Animals Travel Education & Communication Hobbies and Crafts Philosophy and Religion Work World Family Life Holidays and Traditions Relationships Youth
• Browse Articles
• Learn Something New
• Quizzes Hot
• This Or That Game
• Train Your Brain
• Explore More
• Support wikiHow
• About wikiHow
• Log in / Sign up
• Education and Communications
• Tests and Exams
• Exam Revision
• Test Preparation

How to Prepare for a Test

Last Updated: April 15, 2024 References

This article was co-authored by Jai Flicker and by wikiHow staff writer, Jennifer Mueller, JD . Jai Flicker is an Academic Tutor and the CEO and Founder of Lifeworks Learning Center, a San Francisco Bay Area-based business focused on providing tutoring, parental support, test preparation, college essay writing help, and psychoeducational evaluations to help students transform their attitude toward learning. Jai has over 20 years of experience in the education management industry. He holds a BA in Philosophy from the University of California, San Diego. This article has been viewed 191,084 times.

Tests are a necessary part of school life—at some point, you'll have to prove how much you've learned. If you tend to stress out about tests and feverishly cram, you're not alone—but there are better ways to prepare for a test. Here, we've gathered some tips on how to study for your next test, including scheduling regular study sessions, finding different ways to study the material, and taking care of yourself the night before and day of the test.

Study Tips to Prepare for a Test

Turn in your homework on time, review your notes every day, and study in small increments to retain more information. Get a good night’s sleep before your test and eat a healthy breakfast in the morning. Arrive at your test location early and perform breathing exercises to reduce stress.

Start studying several weeks before the exam.

• For example, if you have a test on April 30, you might plan study sessions on the 29th, 28th, 25th, 22nd, 18th, and 15th. Notice that the dates are going backward from the exam date, so your first study session is on the 15th, 2 weeks before the exam.
• If you haven't yet covered all the material that will be on the exam by your first study session, don't worry about it! Just focus on what you have covered and add the other material in as you get to it.

Study in short bursts to retain more information.

• If you need to have a couple of study sessions in a row, plan a break of at least 10-15 minutes in between. That allows your brain to rest and process what you've studied.

Set specific goals for each study session.

• For example, if you planned 6 study sessions, you might take a practice test the first session, then spend the next 2 sessions on the material you had problems with in the practice test. Then, you could take another practice test and reassess your knowledge to plan the rest of your sessions.

Study in a quiet area.

• If there's not a good place to study at home, you might study in the library instead. Many libraries have study carrels or rooms you can sign up to use.

Go for a walk after each study session.

• If you have a recording related to the material you're studying—perhaps you found a related podcast or recorded your teacher's lectures—you might listen to that while you're walking to further reinforce your knowledge.

Take practice tests to assess your knowledge.

• Don't neglect areas you're strong in! You still need to review those areas—you just don't need to spend as much time on them.
• Try to take your test under simulated test conditions. For example, if you only have an hour to complete the test, set a timer for one hour before you begin. You might even get a friend or family member to "proctor" your practice test for you.

Joseph Meyer

Review basic concepts before diving into advanced topics. Identifying the gaps in your knowledge helps you avoid difficulties later on. Take an assessment or get your teacher's advice on where you can improve. Practice targeted exercises to build a strong foundation so you can confidently tackle new lessons.

Create flashcards for quick review.

• For example, waiting in line is the perfect time to go through a few flashcards.
• You can also give your flashcards to a friend or family member so they can quiz you.

Make a mind map if you're a visual learner.

• You might also look into computer apps that help you construct mind maps and other study tools. Many are available for free while others require a subscription. Just search online or ask your teacher if they know of any apps they might recommend.

Read your notes out loud.

• If you find that you stumble over something when you read aloud, it might be that you aren't that familiar with that concept yet. Go over it again until you understand it.

Teach the subject to someone else.

• Younger children are great for this because you'll need to explain more advanced concepts to them using language they'll understand. Putting terminology into your own words like this can help you uncover things you might not completely understand about the material.

Make up your own test questions.

• For example, if you have a history test on the French Revolution, one of your questions might be "What motivated the people who originally revolted against the French king?"
• As another example, if you have a math test, you might create your own math problems to solve based on the formulas introduced in your class.
• If you have access to your teacher's old tests, use those to get an idea of the types of questions your teacher typically asks. That'll make it easier to come up with your own questions.

Get a study group together.

• Don't forget to include a little time to socialize as well! For example, you might get some classmates together to study for 30 minutes, then watch the latest episode of a TV show you all enjoy.

Attend review sessions offered by your teacher.

• Most teachers offer review sessions within a week of the test or after all the material to be tested has been covered in class. Sometimes these are regular class sessions, but they might also be offered at a different time.

Get at least 8 hours of sleep the night before.

• It's a good idea to try to go to bed a little earlier than you normally do the night before the test. Do something relaxing before bed, such as taking a bath.
• You might find it hard to fall asleep, especially if you're nervous about the test—and that's normal! But avoid taking a sleeping pill, which could make you groggy the next day.

Eat a nutritious breakfast the morning of the test.

• If you normally have a cup of coffee in the morning, don't skip it before the test—you don't want caffeine withdrawal to hamper your performance. At the same time, don't over-indulge. Too much caffeine can make you jittery and unfocused, so limit yourself to a single cup.

Give yourself plenty of time to travel to the test location.

• If you've never been to the testing location before, you might want to do a dry run so you're more familiar with the area and know how to get there.

Do deep breathing exercises right before the test.

• Continue breathing this way for 3 to 5 minutes, keeping your focus solely on your breath. If you find that your mind wanders or you start worrying about the test, gently pull your mind back to your breath.

Supercharge Your Studying with this Expert Series

Expert Q&A

Reader Videos

• Schedule a meeting with your teacher to go over your graded test. They can help you understand where you went wrong so you know how to better prepare in the future. [16] X Research source Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• After your test, reward yourself for a job well done! Doing something fun, such as going shopping or watching a movie, will also keep you from worrying about how you did on the test. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• Search online for videos or podcasts about the material you're studying. They can help engage you and reinforce what you learned in class. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

• Avoid cramming, which can increase your anxiety levels. If you haven't studied adequately, just focus on the main concepts of the class and try to understand the big picture. [17] X Research source Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• Don't consume alcohol or other drugs the night before the test. While it might be tempting to "take the edge off," these substances will cloud your thinking and make it hard to focus. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• Change negative self-talk, which can increase your anxiety and make the test more difficult. For example, instead of saying "I'm going to fail this test," you could say "I've worked hard to prepare for this test. I'm going to do okay." Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

You Might Also Like

• ↑ Jai Flicker. Academic Tutor. Expert Interview. 20 May 2020.
• ↑ https://blog.suny.edu/2013/12/scientifically-the-best-ways-to-prepare-for-final-exams/
• ↑ http://academicsupport.uw.edu/study-skills/preparing-for-tests/
• ↑ https://www.lynchburg.edu/academics/tutoring-academic-support/test-preparation/
• ↑ https://www.harrisschool.edu/unusual-study-tips-for-your-next-test/
• ↑ https://www.albany.edu/main/features/2004/12-04/1exams/exams.html

About This Article

To prepare for a test, review your notes every day after school, focusing on the main concepts for each topic. After each study session, review what you’ve learned by using flashcards or the questions at the end of each chapter. Additionally, try sticking notes with important concepts where you’ll see them often, like the bathroom mirror or the inside of your locker, to reinforce what you’re studying throughout the day. Once you’ve studied all the information, try taking a practice test to see what you still need to work on. To learn more, like how to deal with stress and anxiety the night before a test, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No

• Send fan mail to authors

Reader Success Stories

Jwala Srivastava

Feb 14, 2022

Did this article help you?

Nov 18, 2016

Sirene Zidane

May 11, 2016

Henry Kruger

Oct 26, 2016

Apr 4, 2017

Featured Articles

Trending Articles

Watch Articles

• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Do Not Sell or Share My Info
• Not Selling Info

Don’t miss out! Sign up for

wikiHow’s newsletter

Choose Your Test

Sat / act prep online guides and tips, how to do homework: 15 expert tips and tricks.

Coursework/GPA

Everyone struggles with homework sometimes, but if getting your homework done has become a chronic issue for you, then you may need a little extra help. That’s why we’ve written this article all about how to do homework. Once you’re finished reading it, you’ll know how to do homework (and have tons of new ways to motivate yourself to do homework)!

We’ve broken this article down into a few major sections. You’ll find:

• A diagnostic test to help you figure out why you’re struggling with homework
• A discussion of the four major homework problems students face, along with expert tips for addressing them
• A bonus section with tips for how to do homework fast

By the end of this article, you’ll be prepared to tackle whatever homework assignments your teachers throw at you .

So let’s get started!

How to Do Homework: Figure Out Your Struggles 

Sometimes it feels like everything is standing between you and getting your homework done. But the truth is, most people only have one or two major roadblocks that are keeping them from getting their homework done well and on time. 

The best way to figure out how to get motivated to do homework starts with pinpointing the issues that are affecting your ability to get your assignments done. That’s why we’ve developed a short quiz to help you identify the areas where you’re struggling. 

Take the quiz below and record your answers on your phone or on a scrap piece of paper. Keep in mind there are no wrong answers! 

1. You’ve just been assigned an essay in your English class that’s due at the end of the week. What’s the first thing you do?

A. Keep it in mind, even though you won’t start it until the day before it’s due  B. Open up your planner. You’ve got to figure out when you’ll write your paper since you have band practice, a speech tournament, and your little sister’s dance recital this week, too.  C. Groan out loud. Another essay? You could barely get yourself to write the last one!  D. Start thinking about your essay topic, which makes you think about your art project that’s due the same day, which reminds you that your favorite artist might have just posted to Instagram...so you better check your feed right now. 

2. Your mom asked you to pick up your room before she gets home from work. You’ve just gotten home from school. You decide you’ll tackle your chores: 

A. Five minutes before your mom walks through the front door. As long as it gets done, who cares when you start?  B. As soon as you get home from your shift at the local grocery store.  C. After you give yourself a 15-minute pep talk about how you need to get to work.  D. You won’t get it done. Between texts from your friends, trying to watch your favorite Netflix show, and playing with your dog, you just lost track of time! 

3. You’ve signed up to wash dogs at the Humane Society to help earn money for your senior class trip. You: 

A. Show up ten minutes late. You put off leaving your house until the last minute, then got stuck in unexpected traffic on the way to the shelter.  B. Have to call and cancel at the last minute. You forgot you’d already agreed to babysit your cousin and bake cupcakes for tomorrow’s bake sale.  C. Actually arrive fifteen minutes early with extra brushes and bandanas you picked up at the store. You’re passionate about animals, so you’re excited to help out! D. Show up on time, but only get three dogs washed. You couldn’t help it: you just kept getting distracted by how cute they were!

4. You have an hour of downtime, so you decide you’re going to watch an episode of The Great British Baking Show. You: 

A. Scroll through your social media feeds for twenty minutes before hitting play, which means you’re not able to finish the whole episode. Ugh! You really wanted to see who was sent home!  B. Watch fifteen minutes until you remember you’re supposed to pick up your sister from band practice before heading to your part-time job. No GBBO for you!  C. You finish one episode, then decide to watch another even though you’ve got SAT studying to do. It’s just more fun to watch people make scones.  D. Start the episode, but only catch bits and pieces of it because you’re reading Twitter, cleaning out your backpack, and eating a snack at the same time.

5. Your teacher asks you to stay after class because you’ve missed turning in two homework assignments in a row. When she asks you what’s wrong, you say: 

A. You planned to do your assignments during lunch, but you ran out of time. You decided it would be better to turn in nothing at all than submit unfinished work.  B. You really wanted to get the assignments done, but between your extracurriculars, family commitments, and your part-time job, your homework fell through the cracks.  C. You have a hard time psyching yourself to tackle the assignments. You just can’t seem to find the motivation to work on them once you get home.  D. You tried to do them, but you had a hard time focusing. By the time you realized you hadn’t gotten anything done, it was already time to turn them in. 

Like we said earlier, there are no right or wrong answers to this quiz (though your results will be better if you answered as honestly as possible). Here’s how your answers break down: 

• If your answers were mostly As, then your biggest struggle with doing homework is procrastination. 
• If your answers were mostly Bs, then your biggest struggle with doing homework is time management. 
• If your answers were mostly Cs, then your biggest struggle with doing homework is motivation. 
• If your answers were mostly Ds, then your biggest struggle with doing homework is getting distracted. 

Now that you’ve identified why you’re having a hard time getting your homework done, we can help you figure out how to fix it! Scroll down to find your core problem area to learn more about how you can start to address it. 

And one more thing: you’re really struggling with homework, it’s a good idea to read through every section below. You may find some additional tips that will help make homework less intimidating. 

How to Do Homework When You’re a Procrastinator  

Merriam Webster defines “procrastinate” as “to put off intentionally and habitually.” In other words, procrastination is when you choose to do something at the last minute on a regular basis. If you’ve ever found yourself pulling an all-nighter, trying to finish an assignment between periods, or sprinting to turn in a paper minutes before a deadline, you’ve experienced the effects of procrastination. 

If you’re a chronic procrastinator, you’re in good company. In fact, one study found that 70% to 95% of undergraduate students procrastinate when it comes to doing their homework. Unfortunately, procrastination can negatively impact your grades. Researchers have found that procrastination can lower your grade on an assignment by as much as five points ...which might not sound serious until you realize that can mean the difference between a B- and a C+. 

Procrastination can also negatively affect your health by increasing your stress levels , which can lead to other health conditions like insomnia, a weakened immune system, and even heart conditions. Getting a handle on procrastination can not only improve your grades, it can make you feel better, too! 

The big thing to understand about procrastination is that it’s not the result of laziness. Laziness is defined as being “disinclined to activity or exertion.” In other words, being lazy is all about doing nothing. But a s this Psychology Today article explains , procrastinators don’t put things off because they don’t want to work. Instead, procrastinators tend to postpone tasks they don’t want to do in favor of tasks that they perceive as either more important or more fun. Put another way, procrastinators want to do things...as long as it’s not their homework! 

3 Tips f or Conquering Procrastination 

Because putting off doing homework is a common problem, there are lots of good tactics for addressing procrastination. Keep reading for our three expert tips that will get your homework habits back on track in no time. 

#1: Create a Reward System

Like we mentioned earlier, procrastination happens when you prioritize other activities over getting your homework done. Many times, this happens because homework...well, just isn’t enjoyable. But you can add some fun back into the process by rewarding yourself for getting your work done. 

Here’s what we mean: let’s say you decide that every time you get your homework done before the day it’s due, you’ll give yourself a point. For every five points you earn, you’ll treat yourself to your favorite dessert: a chocolate cupcake! Now you have an extra (delicious!) incentive to motivate you to leave procrastination in the dust. 

If you’re not into cupcakes, don’t worry. Your reward can be anything that motivates you . Maybe it’s hanging out with your best friend or an extra ten minutes of video game time. As long as you’re choosing something that makes homework worth doing, you’ll be successful. 

#2: Have a Homework Accountability Partner 

If you’re having trouble getting yourself to start your homework ahead of time, it may be a good idea to call in reinforcements . Find a friend or classmate you can trust and explain to them that you’re trying to change your homework habits. Ask them if they’d be willing to text you to make sure you’re doing your homework and check in with you once a week to see if you’re meeting your anti-procrastination goals. 

Sharing your goals can make them feel more real, and an accountability partner can help hold you responsible for your decisions. For example, let’s say you’re tempted to put off your science lab write-up until the morning before it’s due. But you know that your accountability partner is going to text you about it tomorrow...and you don’t want to fess up that you haven’t started your assignment. A homework accountability partner can give you the extra support and incentive you need to keep your homework habits on track. 

#3: Create Your Own Due Dates 

If you’re a life-long procrastinator, you might find that changing the habit is harder than you expected. In that case, you might try using procrastination to your advantage! If you just can’t seem to stop doing your work at the last minute, try setting your own due dates for assignments that range from a day to a week before the assignment is actually due. 

Here’s what we mean. Let’s say you have a math worksheet that’s been assigned on Tuesday and is due on Friday. In your planner, you can write down the due date as Thursday instead. You may still put off your homework assignment until the last minute...but in this case, the “last minute” is a day before the assignment’s real due date . This little hack can trick your procrastination-addicted brain into planning ahead! 

If you feel like Kevin Hart in this meme, then our tips for doing homework when you're busy are for you. 

How to Do Homework When You’re too Busy

If you’re aiming to go to a top-tier college , you’re going to have a full plate. Because college admissions is getting more competitive, it’s important that you’re maintaining your grades , studying hard for your standardized tests , and participating in extracurriculars so your application stands out. A packed schedule can get even more hectic once you add family obligations or a part-time job to the mix. 

If you feel like you’re being pulled in a million directions at once, you’re not alone. Recent research has found that stress—and more severe stress-related conditions like anxiety and depression— are a major problem for high school students . In fact, one study from the American Psychological Association found that during the school year, students’ stress levels are higher than those of the adults around them. 

For students, homework is a major contributor to their overall stress levels . Many high schoolers have multiple hours of homework every night , and figuring out how to fit it into an already-packed schedule can seem impossible. 

3 Tips for Fitting Homework Into Your Busy Schedule

While it might feel like you have literally no time left in your schedule, there are still ways to make sure you’re able to get your homework done and meet your other commitments. Here are our expert homework tips for even the busiest of students. 

#1: Make a Prioritized To-Do List 

You probably already have a to-do list to keep yourself on track. The next step is to prioritize the items on your to-do list so you can see what items need your attention right away. 

Here’s how it works: at the beginning of each day, sit down and make a list of all the items you need to get done before you go to bed. This includes your homework, but it should also take into account any practices, chores, events, or job shifts you may have. Once you get everything listed out, it’s time to prioritize them using the labels A, B, and C. Here’s what those labels mean:

• A Tasks : tasks that have to get done—like showing up at work or turning in an assignment—get an A. 
• B Tasks : these are tasks that you would like to get done by the end of the day but aren’t as time sensitive. For example, studying for a test you have next week could be a B-level task. It’s still important, but it doesn’t have to be done right away.
• C Tasks: these are tasks that aren’t very important and/or have no real consequences if you don’t get them done immediately. For instance, if you’re hoping to clean out your closet but it’s not an assigned chore from your parents, you could label that to-do item with a C.

Prioritizing your to-do list helps you visualize which items need your immediate attention, and which items you can leave for later. A prioritized to-do list ensures that you’re spending your time efficiently and effectively, which helps you make room in your schedule for homework. So even though you might really want to start making decorations for Homecoming (a B task), you’ll know that finishing your reading log (an A task) is more important. 

#2: Use a Planner With Time Labels

Your planner is probably packed with notes, events, and assignments already. (And if you’re not using a planner, it’s time to start!) But planners can do more for you than just remind you when an assignment is due. If you’re using a planner with time labels, it can help you visualize how you need to spend your day.

A planner with time labels breaks your day down into chunks, and you assign tasks to each chunk of time. For example, you can make a note of your class schedule with assignments, block out time to study, and make sure you know when you need to be at practice. Once you know which tasks take priority, you can add them to any empty spaces in your day. 

Planning out how you spend your time not only helps you use it wisely, it can help you feel less overwhelmed, too . We’re big fans of planners that include a task list ( like this one ) or have room for notes ( like this one ). 

#3: Set Reminders on Your Phone 

If you need a little extra nudge to make sure you’re getting your homework done on time, it’s a good idea to set some reminders on your phone. You don’t need a fancy app, either. You can use your alarm app to have it go off at specific times throughout the day to remind you to do your homework. This works especially well if you have a set homework time scheduled. So if you’ve decided you’re doing homework at 6:00 pm, you can set an alarm to remind you to bust out your books and get to work. 

If you use your phone as your planner, you may have the option to add alerts, emails, or notifications to scheduled events . Many calendar apps, including the one that comes with your phone, have built-in reminders that you can customize to meet your needs. So if you block off time to do your homework from 4:30 to 6:00 pm, you can set a reminder that will pop up on your phone when it’s time to get started. 

This dog isn't judging your lack of motivation...but your teacher might. Keep reading for tips to help you motivate yourself to do your homework.

How to Do Homework When You’re Unmotivated 

At first glance, it may seem like procrastination and being unmotivated are the same thing. After all, both of these issues usually result in you putting off your homework until the very last minute. 

But there’s one key difference: many procrastinators are working, they’re just prioritizing work differently. They know they’re going to start their homework...they’re just going to do it later. 

Conversely, people who are unmotivated to do homework just can’t find the willpower to tackle their assignments. Procrastinators know they’ll at least attempt the homework at the last minute, whereas people who are unmotivated struggle with convincing themselves to do it at a ll. For procrastinators, the stress comes from the inevitable time crunch. For unmotivated people, the stress comes from trying to convince themselves to do something they don’t want to do in the first place. 

Here are some common reasons students are unmotivated in doing homework : 

• Assignments are too easy, too hard, or seemingly pointless 
• Students aren’t interested in (or passionate about) the subject matter
• Students are intimidated by the work and/or feels like they don’t understand the assignment 
• Homework isn’t fun, and students would rather spend their time on things that they enjoy 

To sum it up: people who lack motivation to do their homework are more likely to not do it at all, or to spend more time worrying about doing their homework than...well, actually doing it.

3 Tips for How to Get Motivated to Do Homework

The key to getting homework done when you’re unmotivated is to figure out what does motivate you, then apply those things to homework. It sounds tricky...but it’s pretty simple once you get the hang of it! Here are our three expert tips for motivating yourself to do your homework. 

#1: Use Incremental Incentives

When you’re not motivated, it’s important to give yourself small rewards to stay focused on finishing the task at hand. The trick is to keep the incentives small and to reward yourself often. For example, maybe you’re reading a good book in your free time. For every ten minutes you spend on your homework, you get to read five pages of your book. Like we mentioned earlier, make sure you’re choosing a reward that works for you! 

So why does this technique work? Using small rewards more often allows you to experience small wins for getting your work done. Every time you make it to one of your tiny reward points, you get to celebrate your success, which gives your brain a boost of dopamine . Dopamine helps you stay motivated and also creates a feeling of satisfaction when you complete your homework !  

#2: Form a Homework Group 

If you’re having trouble motivating yourself, it’s okay to turn to others for support. Creating a homework group can help with this. Bring together a group of your friends or classmates, and pick one time a week where you meet and work on homework together. You don’t have to be in the same class, or even taking the same subjects— the goal is to encourage one another to start (and finish!) your assignments. 

Another added benefit of a homework group is that you can help one another if you’re struggling to understand the material covered in your classes. This is especially helpful if your lack of motivation comes from being intimidated by your assignments. Asking your friends for help may feel less scary than talking to your teacher...and once you get a handle on the material, your homework may become less frightening, too. 

#3: Change Up Your Environment 

If you find that you’re totally unmotivated, it may help if you find a new place to do your homework. For example, if you’ve been struggling to get your homework done at home, try spending an extra hour in the library after school instead. The change of scenery can limit your distractions and give you the energy you need to get your work done. 

If you’re stuck doing homework at home, you can still use this tip. For instance, maybe you’ve always done your homework sitting on your bed. Try relocating somewhere else, like your kitchen table, for a few weeks. You may find that setting up a new “homework spot” in your house gives you a motivational lift and helps you get your work done. 

Social media can be a huge problem when it comes to doing homework. We have advice for helping you unplug and regain focus.

How to Do Homework When You’re Easily Distracted

We live in an always-on world, and there are tons of things clamoring for our attention. From friends and family to pop culture and social media, it seems like there’s always something (or someone!) distracting us from the things we need to do.

The 24/7 world we live in has affected our ability to focus on tasks for prolonged periods of time. Research has shown that over the past decade, an average person’s attention span has gone from 12 seconds to eight seconds . And when we do lose focus, i t takes people a long time to get back on task . One study found that it can take as long as 23 minutes to get back to work once we’ve been distracte d. No wonder it can take hours to get your homework done! 

3 Tips to Improve Your Focus

If you have a hard time focusing when you’re doing your homework, it’s a good idea to try and eliminate as many distractions as possible. Here are three expert tips for blocking out the noise so you can focus on getting your homework done. 

#1: Create a Distraction-Free Environment

Pick a place where you’ll do your homework every day, and make it as distraction-free as possible. Try to find a location where there won’t be tons of noise, and limit your access to screens while you’re doing your homework. Put together a focus-oriented playlist (or choose one on your favorite streaming service), and put your headphones on while you work. 

You may find that other people, like your friends and family, are your biggest distraction. If that’s the case, try setting up some homework boundaries. Let them know when you’ll be working on homework every day, and ask them if they’ll help you keep a quiet environment. They’ll be happy to lend a hand! 

#2: Limit Your Access to Technology 

We know, we know...this tip isn’t fun, but it does work. For homework that doesn’t require a computer, like handouts or worksheets, it’s best to put all your technology away . Turn off your television, put your phone and laptop in your backpack, and silence notifications on any wearable tech you may be sporting. If you listen to music while you work, that’s fine...but make sure you have a playlist set up so you’re not shuffling through songs once you get started on your homework. 

If your homework requires your laptop or tablet, it can be harder to limit your access to distractions. But it’s not impossible! T here are apps you can download that will block certain websites while you’re working so that you’re not tempted to scroll through Twitter or check your Facebook feed. Silence notifications and text messages on your computer, and don’t open your email account unless you absolutely have to. And if you don’t need access to the internet to complete your assignments, turn off your WiFi. Cutting out the online chatter is a great way to make sure you’re getting your homework done. 

#3: Set a Timer (the Pomodoro Technique)

Have you ever heard of the Pomodoro technique ? It’s a productivity hack that uses a timer to help you focus!

Here’s how it works: first, set a timer for 25 minutes. This is going to be your work time. During this 25 minutes, all you can do is work on whatever homework assignment you have in front of you. No email, no text messaging, no phone calls—just homework. When that timer goes off, you get to take a 5 minute break. Every time you go through one of these cycles, it’s called a “pomodoro.” For every four pomodoros you complete, you can take a longer break of 15 to 30 minutes.

The pomodoro technique works through a combination of boundary setting and rewards. First, it gives you a finite amount of time to focus, so you know that you only have to work really hard for 25 minutes. Once you’ve done that, you’re rewarded with a short break where you can do whatever you want. Additionally, tracking how many pomodoros you complete can help you see how long you’re really working on your homework. (Once you start using our focus tips, you may find it doesn’t take as long as you thought!)

Two Bonus Tips for How to Do Homework Fast

Even if you’re doing everything right, there will be times when you just need to get your homework done as fast as possible. (Why do teachers always have projects due in the same week? The world may never know.)

The problem with speeding through homework is that it’s easy to make mistakes. While turning in an assignment is always better than not submitting anything at all, you want to make sure that you’re not compromising quality for speed. Simply put, the goal is to get your homework done quickly and still make a good grade on the assignment! 

Here are our two bonus tips for getting a decent grade on your homework assignments , even when you’re in a time crunch. 

#1: Do the Easy Parts First 

This is especially true if you’re working on a handout with multiple questions. Before you start working on the assignment, read through all the questions and problems. As you do, make a mark beside the questions you think are “easy” to answer . 

Once you’ve finished going through the whole assignment, you can answer these questions first. Getting the easy questions out of the way as quickly as possible lets you spend more time on the trickier portions of your homework, which will maximize your assignment grade. 

(Quick note: this is also a good strategy to use on timed assignments and tests, like the SAT and the ACT !) 

#2: Pay Attention in Class 

Homework gets a lot easier when you’re actively learning the material. Teachers aren’t giving you homework because they’re mean or trying to ruin your weekend... it’s because they want you to really understand the course material. Homework is designed to reinforce what you’re already learning in class so you’ll be ready to tackle harder concepts later.

When you pay attention in class, ask questions, and take good notes, you’re absorbing the information you’ll need to succeed on your homework assignments. (You’re stuck in class anyway, so you might as well make the most of it!) Not only will paying attention in class make your homework less confusing, it will also help it go much faster, too.

What’s Next?

If you’re looking to improve your productivity beyond homework, a good place to begin is with time management. After all, we only have so much time in a day...so it’s important to get the most out of it! To get you started, check out this list of the 12 best time management techniques that you can start using today.

You may have read this article because homework struggles have been affecting your GPA. Now that you’re on the path to homework success, it’s time to start being proactive about raising your grades. This article teaches you everything you need to know about raising your GPA so you can

Now you know how to get motivated to do homework...but what about your study habits? Studying is just as critical to getting good grades, and ultimately getting into a good college . We can teach you how to study bette r in high school. (We’ve also got tons of resources to help you study for your ACT and SAT exams , too!)

These recommendations are based solely on our knowledge and experience. If you purchase an item through one of our links, PrepScholar may receive a commission.

Ashley Sufflé Robinson has a Ph.D. in 19th Century English Literature. As a content writer for PrepScholar, Ashley is passionate about giving college-bound students the in-depth information they need to get into the school of their dreams.

Ask a Question Below

Have any questions about this article or other topics? Ask below and we'll reply!

Improve With Our Famous Guides

• For All Students

The 5 Strategies You Must Be Using to Improve 160+ SAT Points

How to Get a Perfect 1600, by a Perfect Scorer

Series: How to Get 800 on Each SAT Section:

Score 800 on SAT Math

Score 800 on SAT Reading

Score 800 on SAT Writing

Series: How to Get to 600 on Each SAT Section:

Score 600 on SAT Math

Score 600 on SAT Reading

Score 600 on SAT Writing

Free Complete Official SAT Practice Tests

What SAT Target Score Should You Be Aiming For?

15 Strategies to Improve Your SAT Essay

The 5 Strategies You Must Be Using to Improve 4+ ACT Points

How to Get a Perfect 36 ACT, by a Perfect Scorer

Series: How to Get 36 on Each ACT Section:

36 on ACT English

36 on ACT Math

36 on ACT Reading

36 on ACT Science

Series: How to Get to 24 on Each ACT Section:

24 on ACT English

24 on ACT Math

24 on ACT Reading

24 on ACT Science

What ACT target score should you be aiming for?

ACT Vocabulary You Must Know

ACT Writing: 15 Tips to Raise Your Essay Score

How to Get Into Harvard and the Ivy League

How to Get a Perfect 4.0 GPA

How to Write an Amazing College Essay

What Exactly Are Colleges Looking For?

Is the ACT easier than the SAT? A Comprehensive Guide

Should you retake your SAT or ACT?

When should you take the SAT or ACT?

Stay Informed

Get the latest articles and test prep tips!

Looking for Graduate School Test Prep?

Check out our top-rated graduate blogs here:

GRE Online Prep Blog

GMAT Online Prep Blog

TOEFL Online Prep Blog

Holly R. "I am absolutely overjoyed and cannot thank you enough for helping me!”

• Academic Problems and Skills

How to Perform Your Best on Any Test

Try these strategies to crack the test code..

Posted May 17, 2024 | Reviewed by Tyler Woods

• Find a counsellor to help with academics
• Stress affects human performance, and test-taking is no exception.
• Being in the right mental state will improve your test scores.
• When you’re taking a test, your body, mind, and spirit are all involved.

It’s May. Hang around any high school—especially the junior class of any high school—and you will feel the torrent of teenage adrenaline and the nerves pulsing with test anxiety . SAT, ACT, AP exams, finals, and, looming in the near distance, college applications.

Some students are exhilarated: I’m about to take wing and fly the coop! But to many others, it’s a moment for tension and dread: Oh no, I’m not ready for this! You can’t go backwards, only forwards.

As an old Eagle Scout, I have come to understand, over many years, the wisdom in the Boy Scout motto “Be Prepared.” As a psychologist who, for the last 40 years, has focused on how stress affects human performance, I’d like to offer some suggestions on how to best prepare for what’s coming.

The four essentials for successful test performance

• Know the test. Any test you’re about to take has been around for awhile. Get to know how the test is constructed (How many sections are there? How many questions are there? Are they multiple choice or short-form answers? How much time will you have? Are there any breaks?) Just like a cross-country runner, familiarize yourself with the course before the race begins. Make sure you know the test “terrain” thoroughly.
• Learn the content. Every test covers a certain domain of material. The more familiar with what the test covers, the better chance you’ll have of scoring well. This is where some students “skimp”—they learn “just enough,” thinking they will be able to wing it at test time. Not a good plan.
• Practice. Seek out old exams. Practice will help you organize your thoughts and show you where there are gaps in your knowledge. Taking practice tests can be helpful if you analyze your answers—the wrong ones, and, surprisingly, your right answers as well (I’ll have more to say about this below).
• Learn and practice with performance tools. When you cross over the threshold into the exam room, a whole bunch of things happen: your heart starts beating rapidly, you get worried, you can’t remember stuff you know you studied, you get distracted by other students or the noises outside the building. You need what I call “performance tools.” (More below).

The pitfalls of improper practice and not using performance tools

I have seen countless students take practice tests and score well on them, but then, when they take the actual test, their performance dips significantly. Almost always it’s because they didn’t practice properly and they did not have or use performance tools.

Proper practice means carefully analyzing your answers. Too often, after taking a practice test, students look at the score they received as a predictor of the score they’ll achieve on the actual test. If the practice score is at or close to what they’d hope for, they're happy and think, “I’m ready!” If it’s lower than expected, they review their wrong answers. Both approaches are insufficient: a score is a number that is affected by many factors—the breadth and depth of questions, how you were feeling when you practiced (were you nervous or calm; confident or self-doubtful; focused or distracted?).

To “crack the test code,” you need to analyze your answers—all your answers—your wrong ones and your right ones. Analyzing wrong answers will reveal the gaps in your knowledge; where you second-guessed yourself; where you were rushing or misread the question or answer choices. Analyzing your right answers will show you if you actually knew what you were doing or if you just got lucky. You need to get under the hood of your practice tests. It will show you how to best use the available time you have before test day.

When you take the actual test—in addition to all the knowledge you’ve studied and, hopefully, mastered, you need to be able to be in the right state to do your best. This means being calm (in your body), confident (in your mind), and focused (in your spirit).

The 3-legged stool

I liken being in the right mental state to a three-legged stool: when all the legs are equally strong, it’s a very sturdy platform. If one of the legs is short or weak, the whole structure is unstable.

When you’re taking a test, your body, mind, and spirit are all involved. If you are very nervous (body), it’s going to affect your mind and spirit. If you’re doubting yourself (mind), you’ll feel anxious and find it hard to stay on track. If you’re distracted (spirit), you won’t be able to think methodically.

Learn how to calm yourself down (regular breathing is the best) when you feel anxious. If your confidence slips, practice re-connecting with your best self. Recognize when you are “losing it” so can get yourself back on track right away.

What you can do now

In subsequent posts, I’ll give you all nine performance tools that make up the 3-legged stool. Understand first that the tools will be useful to you only if you’ve thoroughly covered the first three pillars described above: once you know the test, have learned the content, and practiced wisely, then you’ll be ready to receive the nine tools, and, with them, cross the threshold into the exam room and perform at your best.

Bernstein, Ben (2018). Crush Your Test Anxiety . Familius

Bernstein, Ben (2013), A Teen's Guide to Success . Familius.

Ben Bernstein, Ph.D., is a Performance Psychologist who works with CEOs, athletes, parents, stage performers, healthcare professionals, and test-takers to do their best.

• Find a Therapist
• Find a Treatment Center
• Find a Psychiatrist
• Find a Support Group
• Find Online Therapy
• International
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Switzerland
• Asperger's
• Bipolar Disorder
• Chronic Pain
• Eating Disorders
• Passive Aggression
• Personality
• Goal Setting
• Positive Psychology
• Stopping Smoking
• Low Sexual Desire
• Relationships
• Child Development
• Self Tests NEW
• Therapy Center
• Diagnosis Dictionary
• Types of Therapy

At any moment, someone’s aggravating behavior or our own bad luck can set us off on an emotional spiral that threatens to derail our entire day. Here’s how we can face our triggers with less reactivity so that we can get on with our lives.

• Emotional Intelligence
• Gaslighting
• Affective Forecasting
• Neuroscience

• Student Center

• back Research Colleges & Universities

Does Homework help you prepare for tests?

Yes, homework will help you prepare for tests. Doing your homework will help you with enough practice to prepare for and pass your tests. Homework helps you understand different concepts and ideas that will come out in the exams.

Other pages of interest: How do you mentally prepare for a test? , What do you do the morning of a big test? , How many hours should I study for a final exam? , How do you prepare for a test the night before? , How many days before a test should you study? , What should I do 1 hour before an exam? , Adjusting to College , College Life , Career Advice , Discover Scholarships , Top Colleges in the US

A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

A lock ( ) or https:// means you've safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

• Risk Factors
• Cervical Cancer Screening and Survivor Stories
• Face Your Health
• National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program
• Gynecologic Cancers

Screening for Cervical Cancer

The HPV test and the Pap test can help prevent cervical cancer or find it early.

• You should start getting Pap tests at age 21. If you are 30 years old or older, talk to your doctor about testing options.

Screening tests

• The HPV test looks for the virus ( human papillomavirus ) that can cause cell changes on the cervix.
• The Pap test (or Pap smear) looks for precancers, cell changes on the cervix that might become cervical cancer if they are not treated appropriately.

Both tests can be done in a doctor's office or clinic. During the Pap test, the doctor will use a plastic or metal instrument, called a speculum, to look inside your vagina. This helps the doctor examine the vagina and the cervix, and collect a few cells and mucus from the cervix and the area around it. The cells are sent to a laboratory.

• If you are getting a Pap test, the cells will be checked to see if they look normal.
• If you are getting an HPV test, the cells will be tested for HPV.

What is cervical precancer? When there are cervical cells that look abnormal but are not yet cancerous, it is called cervical precancer. These abnormal cells may be the first sign of cancer that develops years later. Cervical precancer usually doesn't cause pain or other symptoms. It is found with a Pap test.

Cindy's Story: Preventing Cervical Cancer

"If I didn't go to that appointment, I might not be around for my kids," says Cindy. Her cervical cancer screening test found precancerous cells. She shares her story in this video.

When to get screened

If you are 21 to 29 years old.

You should start getting Pap tests at age 21. If your Pap test result is normal, your doctor may tell you that you can wait three years until your next Pap test.

If you are 30 to 65 years old

Talk to your doctor about which testing option is right for you:

• An HPV test only. This is called primary HPV testing. If your result is normal, your doctor may tell you that you can wait five years until your next screening test.
• An HPV test along with a Pap test. This is called co-testing. If both of your results are normal, your doctor may tell you that you can wait five years until your next screening test.
• A Pap test only. If your result is normal, your doctor may tell you that you can wait three years until your next Pap test.

If you are older than 65

Your doctor may tell you that you don't need to be screened anymore if:

• You have had at least three Pap tests or two HPV tests in the past 10 years, and the test results were normal or negative, and
• You have not had a cervical precancer in the past, or
• You have had your cervix removed as part of a total hysterectomy for non-cancerous conditions, like fibroids.

Are you worried about the cost?‎‎‎

How to prepare for your test.

No special preparation is needed before you have an HPV test.

If you are getting a Pap test, you can take steps to make sure the test results are accurate. Avoid intercourse, douching, and using vaginal medicines or spermicidal foam for 2 days before the test. If you had sex before the test, go to the appointment as planned and let the doctor know.

If you have your period, don't worry. Both tests can still be done at this time.

Test results

It can take as long as three weeks to receive your test results. If your test shows that something might not be normal, your doctor will contact you and figure out how best to follow up. There are many reasons why test results might not be normal. It usually does not mean you have cancer.

If your test results show cells that are not normal and may become cancer, your doctor will let you know if you need to be treated. In most cases, treatment prevents cervical cancer from developing. It is important to follow up with your doctor right away to learn more about your test results and receive any treatment that may be needed.

If your test results are normal, your chance of getting cervical cancer in the next few years is very low. Your doctor may tell you that you can wait several years for your next cervical cancer screening test. But you should still go to the doctor regularly for a checkup.

Pap test result

A Pap test result can be normal, unclear, abnormal, or unsatisfactory.

• A normal (or "negative") result means that no cell changes were found on your cervix. This is good news. But you still need to get Pap tests in the future. New cell changes can still form on your cervix. Your doctor may tell you that you can wait three years for your next screening test if you received a Pap test only. If you also received an HPV test, and the result is negative, your doctor may tell you that you can wait five years for your next screening test.
• It is common for test results to come back unclear. Your doctor may use other words to describe this result, like equivocal, inconclusive, or ASC-US. These all mean the same thing—that your cervical cells look like they could be abnormal. It is not clear if it's related to HPV. It could be related to life changes like pregnancy, menopause, or an infection. The HPV test can help find out if your cell changes are related to HPV. Ask your doctor what to do next.
• An abnormal result means that cell changes were found on your cervix. This usually does not mean that you have cervical cancer. Abnormal changes on your cervix are likely caused by HPV. The changes may be minor (low-grade) or serious (high-grade). Most of the time, minor changes go back to normal on their own. But more serious changes can turn into cancer if they are not removed. The more serious changes are often called "precancer" because they are not yet cancer, but they can turn into cancer over time. In rare cases, an abnormal Pap test can show that you may have cancer. You will need other tests to be sure. The earlier you find cervical cancer, the easier it is to treat.
• If there are not enough cells in the sample or the cells are clumped together, this is considered unsatisfactory. Your doctor may ask you to come back for another Pap test in a few months.

HPV test result

An HPV test result can be positive or negative.

• A negative HPV test means you do not have an HPV type that is linked to cervical cancer. Your doctor may tell you that you can wait five years for your next screening test.
• A positive HPV test means you do have an HPV type that may be linked to cervical cancer. This does not mean you have cervical cancer now. But it could be a warning. The specific HPV type may be identified to determine the next step.
• Cervical Cancer Screening Recommendation Statement (US Preventive Services Task Force)
• Next Steps after an Abnormal Cervical Cancer Screening Test: Understanding HPV and Pap Test Results (National Cancer Institute)

Cervical Cancer

Screening tests and the HPV vaccine can help prevent cervical cancer.