Most aptitude tests, particularly scholastic ones, are structured similarly. The SAT, PSAT, LSAT, MCAT, GRE, and GMAT all attempt to test how well suited you to a particular type of education.

The following tips apply most directly to these tests but also apply to other standardized tests such as the Civil Service Exam.

1. Find our as much as you can about the test. What type of questions will be on it? How long is it? How is it scored?
2. Take practice tests. Sample tests appear in test-prep books available at local bookstores or through the company that administers the test.
3. Take a course. If you have the time and money to dedicate to the process, courses are offered to help people raise their scores on many of these tests.
4. Get a good nights sleep the night before the test, and have a good breakfast. Wear comfortable shoes and clothes.
5. Bring with you several appropriate familiar and functional writing implements.

Taking the Test

1. Pay attention to the directions-they can be misleading. If possible, get the directions before you take the test so you don’t waste time reading them during the test.
2. Develop a system for answering the questions. Consistency will keep you focused.
3. Use what you know about the test to your advantage. For instance, If you know that the questions increase in difficulty as you go along, but count the same amount, concentrate on answering the easier ones first.
4. Pace yourself. Time is very important on these tests. Don’t let yourself fall behind.
5. Guess the answers only if the probability is in your favor. Many of these tests are designed so that it’s beneficial to guess only if you can eliminate one or more choices.
6. Stay physically relaxed and alert. Good posture and abundant energy will help you think more clearly. Take occasional deep breaths. If you feel your self panicking, take a moment to refocus.
7. Don’t do any more work than you need to. People who excel at these tests are often those who know the shortcuts and understand both what a question is asking and how the test maker wants you to approach the problem. Often the answer that comes to mind will not turn out to be the right one, and the first method that you think of to do a problem will not be the best or the most efficient.