Develop a plan from your self evaluation and from your score report for improving your examination performance. Develop a list of readings, a study activity plan and a schedule for your activities to improve your knowledge and skills. Give priority to your weak and moderate areas so that your preparation has the best chance to increase your overall score. Use the suggested references for the examination or similar publications. The suggested references are ones which are noted authorities for some examination topics or are publications in print that give reasonable overviews of subjects on the examinations.

A Final Word About Preparation:
Anxiety is normal. So do not be worried if you feel a little anxiety before the test. In fact, some studies of human performance demonstrate that learning and performance are increased with a moderate degree of anxiety. A lack of anxiety, on the other hand, can produce overconfidence. Remember, fear of the unknown, self doubt, physical condition, medication, and other factors can increase the intensity of anxiety and decrease performance. Concentrate on minimizing your anxiety and on maximizing your self-confidence. Here are a few “common sense” suggestions that may help you improve your performance on the examination.

vDevise a preparation strategy and plan that best matches your best performance on past exams and work projects.

vSet aside time and regularly study the content a little at a time. Do not cram for the exam.You may want to take a chapter at a time, and then, review the key ideas, points and concepts that you marked in the chapters.

vWhen you have completed the majority of your studying, test yourself. This should build your self confidence. First, focus on all that you have learned. Then concentrate on studying the items and topics on which you could improve.

vEat before you take the exam, even if it is a light breakfast or meal. After meals, blood is diverted from the brain to the digestive organs for processing food. This is partially why we experience a “post lunch depression” (nap time). A large or filling meal may make you feel dull and could negatively impact your performance. Not eating may leave you without the fuel to “power up” you brain.

vAllow plenty of time to arrive at the test center. Avoid rushing that could increase anxiety.

vIf you arrive early, review your notes or the Handbook.

vCarefully listen to the instructions presented by the test administrator.

vCarefully read every possible item before making a selection.

vFirst, answer the questions that are easiest for you. This will build your confidence.

vIf you have time remaining at the end of the testing session, review the responses about which you had some doubt.