Good Grades, Poor Standardized Exam Scores ... Why??

Parents are often perplexed when their child gets top grades in school, but can't seem to crack an average score on the standardized exams. Unfortunately, performing well in high school classes and achieving high scores on the standardized exams are outcomes that do not necessarily go hand in hand for a number of reasons.

First, while working through a prep manual, and perhaps using flashcards, are the typical methods for improving the standardized exam scores, a student can learn the required material for high school classes by taking and reviewing lecture notes, studying from the text, discussing topics as a small group, and preparing for exams that focus on narrowly-defined topics. The student can use diverse study methods to fine-tune and enhance the prep work.

On the contrary, the student does not know the specific content of a standardized exam. Given the time constraints many students have due to academic, athletic, or social commitments, the exam prep study plan usually consists of a general review of many topics.

In addition, many students simply panic in the testing environment and, consequently, may submit a sub-standard result. Consistent practice in a simulated test environment and careful review of errors are essential habits for any exam prep student to develop, but this is especially true for the average and below-average student.

Finally, an unspoken, but most effective trait of the high-scoring standardized exam taker is confidence. Many students score low on standardized exams because they mistakenly think they can get by on the bare minimum of study time: a practice exam here or there, or a half-hearted review of select portions of the 2-inch-thick study manual. But this is what high-scoring test-takers know: Make a study plan and keep it; allow plenty of time for practice; test and implement strategies for responding to questions quickly and accurately; and chart progress to pinpoint weak areas and keep motivation high.

The average student or weak test-taker can do well on standardized exams by considering a new approach to test-taking that includes using several methods of study, prioritizing exam prep among competing commitments, consistently reviewing and practicing of concepts, and building confidence by preparing well in advance of test day. The outcome of a standardized exam often sets the stage for opportunities in higher education or a career, so it pays to make the most of your exam prep.