Tips for taking the Clep tests.

[mindytowne]

Ok I'm studying for my first Clep test, and I'm studying Intro. to Sociology. I have figured out these are all fill in the blanks and my question is does this help you when you go to take the actuall test since it's multiple choice? If I don't remember every single answer is it going to be a big problem when I go take the exam?

[studyhard]

Remember, this is just a study resource. Don't sweat it if you don't get the blanks filled in exactly every time--just try to remember the answer and always read the explanations. If you go through all the cards about 4-5 times, you'll be fine.

[Lindagerr]

I don't even try to fill in the blanks, but read the answers and explanations. Try the CLEP practice test if you don't have one PM me your e-mail and I will send you one. If you get over 50% on that you should(no promises this is just my experience) be able to pass this.

[Epiphany]

I'm a fill in the blanks kind of guy. I do that until I'm getting about 90% right in the section on random, then I move on. That usually takes 2-3 tries. Gives me a sense of forward momentum I think.

Every few sections I go back and flip through again, not filling in the blanks... just moving fast. In general I can get through 60-90 cards in 2-3 hours or one night of study. (depending on how much free time my wife gives me!). It's worked for me so far.

[mindytowne]

so have you found that by knowing what the fill in blank is that it makes it much easier when you have multiple choices? Are the questions on the test anything remotely like the ones on the flashcards?

[Epiphany]

so have you found that by knowing what the fill in blank is that it makes it much easier when you have multiple choices? Are the questions on the test anything remotely like the ones on the flashcards?

I'm not sure that knowing what the "blank" word is makes a test easier. I use my score when completing each section as a measurement of how well I know the material, and when it is time for me to move to the next section. The trick is to read the material/flashcards over and over.

The questions on the tests are not at all the same as the flashcards. Heres an example...

The flashcard:
The _____ is the best donut in the world.
Answer:
Tim Hortons Walnut Crunch. The Walnut Crunch has crunchy bits of walnut on it, and is the best donut in the world. Tim Horton's is a donut company in Canada.

The Clep:
Who makes the best donut in the world?
A) Phil Collins
B) Tim Hortons
C) McDonalds Happy meal
D) Chocolate dipped
E) Walnut Crunch

Clearly the answer is B. But they sometimes throw a curve ball in there (E), so read the question carefully. In this case, the answer was in the explanation on the flashcard, not the "blank". Sometimes you don't need to know the answer, just what is NOT the answer. Use the process of elimination to reduce your choices whenever you have any doubts.

[mindytowne]

That makes total sense!!!!! Thanks for the feedback!

[dc67]

I don't even try to fill in the blanks, but read the answers and explanations. Try the CLEP practice test if you don't have one PM me your e-mail and I will send you one. If you get over 50% on that you should(no promises this is just my experience) be able to pass this.

This is the same method that has worked for me, so far.

Good luck.

[bmills072200]

You must have been a police officer in a former life...

I'm not sure that knowing what the "blank" word is makes a test easier. I use my score when completing each section as a measurement of how well I know the material, and when it is time for me to move to the next section. The trick is to read the material/flashcards over and over.

The questions on the tests are not at all the same as the flashcards. Heres an example...

The flashcard:
The _____ is the best donut in the world.
Answer:
Tim Hortons Walnut Crunch. The Walnut Crunch has crunchy bits of walnut on it, and is the best donut in the world. Tim Horton's is a donut company in Canada.

The Clep:
Who makes the best donut in the world?
A) Phil Collins
B) Tim Hortons
C) McDonalds Happy meal
D) Chocolate dipped
E) Walnut Crunch

Clearly the answer is B. But they sometimes throw a curve ball in there (E), so read the question carefully. In this case, the answer was in the explanation on the flashcard, not the "blank". Sometimes you don't need to know the answer, just what is NOT the answer. Use the process of elimination to reduce your choices whenever you have any doubts.

[thatbrian]

Hi Mindy, Good luck on your test.

Sociology is a good one to start with because it's not very tough. Having said that I think it's a good idea for you to take a couple practice exams. There are 3 in the REA study guide that will give you a good feel of what the test is like. Secondly, you should read every post in the exam feedback section here. Thirdly, you might want to visit the College Board website to see what is covered in the actual test. They are the people who actually create the CLEP tests. If you are short on time right now, take the practice exams at the very least.

Brian