In today's fast paced world it appears that we are being tested daily to see if we can excel. I say stop studying for the test and start studying for the knowledge. Much too often students memorize facts and figures without learning the material in context. Unfortunately, in the real world that context becomes instrumental as to how we progress within an organizational structure. It is impossible to excel if we do not learn the material in a way that we can take into ourselves and grow. So, stop memorizing questions, but don't stop memorizing formulas. For once you have a formula any tough problem can be resolved by logically substituting known elements to find the unknown elements.

For those studying for the SAT, ASVAB, GRE, or some other cumulative test; the secret to a high score is respecting the knowledge you have in being able to apply it. For example, the math often comes down to formulas and systematic practice. This means don't skip around as math does not really change. Memorize and be able to apply basic algebra, geometry, and business formulas to include finding interest, percent’s, and probability. Remember math comes down to four simple things adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing. If you can't do these well you will not do well on these tests regardless of the formulas they are used in. For the English, paragraph, and vocabulary; read the question first before reading the paragraph this will allow you to identify the answers that don't belong and focus on those that are close enough to validate once you read. Know how to take tests quickly: again read the question; often the answers provided don't belong and you can use common sense and a few critical thinking skills to cross them off the list of possibilities. Vocabulary is the tough one and it generally comes down to being well read. I often tell my students to figure out if they are looking at a noun, verb, or adjective as the answer will be the same 90% of the time as it is not an absolute science because some words in context could be different. Read substitute and re-read.

Often, I tell students to research the test they are taking as the formats are different and you don’t want to score low because you did not understand the rules. Every student should know the following:

1. Know your strengths and weaknesses; if your weak - study/ if you strong - study harder.

2. Know Basic Geometry, Algebra, Arithmetic, and word problem formulas and strategies.

3. Be able to understand what you are reading- what is the value/bottom-line/or point.

4. Be able to substitute data or words and gain viable results or value.

5. Learn that it is impossible to know everything. That is why critical thinking and problem solving skills are very critical in advanced education environments.

Study hard but pay attention to the context in how it is being used.

Tough Collaborative Real World Tutor: Expecting and Driving Excellence