When registering to take the Illinois Basic Skills Test, you may chose whether you would like to take the computer or the pencil-and-paper version. When choosing between these two formats, pay attention to the dates of the tests and your score report deadlines --- paper tests can take longer to score --- and whether your nearest testing sites offer one or both options.
The Illinois Certification Testing System provides an online Diagnostic Practice Test so that you become comfortable with the test format and subjects before sitting for the actual exam. The computer program will score the multiple choice section, which can help you determine which areas of the test you need to spend more time studying for. The practice test provides a sample of the written section for you to study so that you can better understand what is expected of you for this section.
The Basic Skills Test Preparation is another online resource that was created by the Illinois Community College Board as a study guide for test candidates. In order to use this guide, you must first register with the pass code from the university or college you attend.
Commercial test preparation guides are available at bookstores and libraries. Most of these guides are prepared by private organizations like Peterson's and Kaplan, who specialize in standardized test preparation strategies. They vary in cost and some will come with computer software or a password to access specific test resources on the organization's website. Most books will include a paper practice test, test-taking tips and an overview of the types of questions found in each section of the test.