Academics

How to Grade Your Own Test

pcc-fb-studying-photoIt's that time again: test time. Not only have we all taken unit tests, but we've faced midterms and survived. (yay!) Sometimes when we get a grade back, it isn't what we were expecting, for better or for worse. While the grade that we receive is important, many of us fall into the trap of only looking at that grade. Don't forget to evaluate your own performance and to grade your own test!

  1. "Did I put as much effort into studying for this test as I feasibly could?" If you can answer yes to this question, you passed this section. If not, think of ways to improve your studying, such as scheduling study time or finding alternate ways to study.
  2. "Did I really understand what was being asked of me, or did I have to guess the meaning of most of the questions?" If you understood the material and just filled out a wrong bubble on a form (we've all done that one!), be glad you know the material and just made a little mistake! If you find yourself feeling like you didn't really know what was going on, check out "Find a Tutor" under the "Academics" menu on Eagle's Nest, or ask you professor for help during his office hours. If you understood the question and just didn't get the right answer, remember that understanding the concept is the main focus of your class.
  3. "Did I do my best?" When you get to the bottom of it, did you do the best work that you could? If so, you are getting the most out of it! You're going to get out of a class what you put into it, and bringing your best to the table will make that difficult class one of the most enriching ones you will have while at PCC.

In Ecclesiastes, Solomon writes, "Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might."  So when you get that test back and you see your grade, whether it's fantastic or underwhelming, remember to ask yourself these questions. Keep track of your progress, and finish the semester strong!

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The thoughts and opinions expressed in Life in the Nest are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Pensacola Christian College.
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