Dennis Learning Center

Image Description:
A scarlet poster from The Ohio State University Dennis Learning Center titled “How to Make a Practice Test.” The graphic includes three steps: asking your professor, mimicking the test format, and timing yourself, with simple icons and a clean layout.

Studying smarter doesn’t always mean studying longer… sometimes it means studying like it’s the real test 🧠✨

Here’s how to create your own practice test:

1. Ask Your Professor
Don’t overthink this — just send a quick, respectful email asking about the exam format or if they have any sample questions. You can ask things like:
• “Will the exam be mostly multiple choice or short answer?”
• “Are there any topics you recommend focusing on?”
This helps you study with direction instead of guessing.

2. Mimic the Format
Once you know the structure, recreate it.
If it’s multiple choice → make your own questions or use Quizlet
If it’s short answer → write out responses (not just in your head)
If it’s mixed → do both
The goal is to make your brain practice the same way it’ll perform on the exam.

3. Time Yourself
This is the part people skip… and it matters.
Sit down, no distractions, and actually time yourself like it’s the real test.
This helps with pacing, focus, and test anxiety so nothing feels unfamiliar on exam day.

Practice like it’s real → perform like it’s nothing 📝💯