Each section of the test has specific objectives; these explain what you are expected to know for each section. For example, objectives for the reading comprehension portion of the test include being able to find the meaning of words and phrases in context, being able to determine the meaning of colloquial language and using context to find the meaning of words with more than one possible meaning. Reviewing the objectives for each section of the test can help you learn in which areas you need to improve. Objectives for each section can be found in the Illinois Certification Testing System (ICTS) study guide.
The Illinois Certification Testing System has a Basic Skill Diagnostic Practice Test available to take online or in a pdf version for downloading and printing out. This practice test will help you to become familiar with some of the question types and concepts used in the test. Taking the practice test can also help you to identify study areas in which you may need additional work. The practice test includes explanations of the correct answers.
For the math portion of the test, there are some basic formulas that you should know. These include formulas for surface area and volume of a sphere, surface area of a cylinder, perimeter of a rectangle and area of a triangle. You should also take some time to familiarize yourself with mathematical notation and the use of graphs; you will need to be able to do basic math, such as multiplying and dividing fractions, without the use of a calculator. It is a good idea to study several different types of math problems so you are prepared for to answer different types of questions.
Make a study timetable and stick to it. Make sure you give yourself enough time to prepare -- don't wait until the week before you take the test to begin. List the areas in which you are weakest and concentrate on these. Spend some time studying each day; you may want to form a study group with other people taking the test around the same time. Your study group could hire a tutor for any areas they are finding difficult and split the costs. You may also want to ask other people in your college or university program who have already taken the test to help you study.