Make needed arrangements prior to the testing date. Secure a testing area with adequate seating and table space. If there will be students with disabilities, arrange for any needed accommodations.
Establish policies before the test date. Also establish what the consequences will be if students do not follow these rules. Decide whether students will be allowed to have food and drinks during the test; to keep their cell phones with them; to use scratch paper; to leave their desks during the test; to use their books. Determine whether there will be breaks. Learning the policies associated with the test you are administering, or making these decisions in advance will help the test run more smoothly.
Publicize policies before the test administration. Alert students and teachers of the test date and location. If students are required to show IDs before taking the test, make sure this policy is stated clearly so they can come prepared. They should also be informed of any supplies they should bring, such as pencils, erasers, scratch paper or calculators.
Obtain supplies. These may include test booklets, Scantron sheets, a clock, a timer, water or snacks for breaks, pencil sharpeners, scratch paper or other items to be supplied to the students. Other items that might be good to have on hand would be extra pencils, erasers, Kleenex and a phone.
Prepare the testing area. Place ample space between seats to allow for comfort as well as to discourage cheating. Put a clock in a visible location so test takers can pace themselves. Remove posters that contain information related to the test.
Administer the test. Watch students carefully in order to discourage cheating. Do not do anything that would distract students, such as talking on the phone or visiting with another proctor. Do not give students the impression that you will not notice what they are doing. If students raise their hands for assistance, help them quickly and quietly but do not give them any guidance with the test questions.
Collect materials promptly following the test. Do not allow students to take test booklets out of the testing area.
Evaluate the event. Make notes of what worked well, as well as what you would like to do differently for the next test.