Understand the levels of performance needed on the test to reach certain goals, such as commended scores. TAKS puts out descriptions of what is presented on the test to give students an idea of what they need to know in math, reading, writing, social studies and science to achieve a commended score or to raise a score. The descriptions are broken down by grade level and subject. For example, students with commended scores in eighth-grade social studies apply prior knowledge to the questions, analyze cause-and-effect relationships between historical events and evaluate social movements on U.S. history, among others.
Studying past material from previous grades along with more recent material in the different subjects freshens the memory so students can apply past material to the TAKS test. If a student is aware he has a weak subject area, such as math or science, give extra studying time to these subjects. TAKS website supplies printable study guides and practice tests to help with studying.
Teachers in Texas have prepared students for the TAKS test longer than a student prepares for the test. Ask a teacher about tricky sections or sections that often trip up students and lower their scores. Prepare for these sections and be aware they are on the test. Teachers can also prepare students for the TAKS test and other standardized tests by keeping their lesson plans focused around Texas' academic standards. Lesson plans that follow the state's standards provide students with the information that is going to be present on TAKS.
Going into a test with a study-crammed mind and little sleep is not the most ideal way to take a test. Get adequate sleep the night before a test and eat a healthy breakfast. Without breakfast, hunger pangs can distract the mind. Study, but do not overdo it. Cramming the brain with material in a rush to try and remember it all can clutter the mind, causing some material to be forgotten under pressure.