Learn the test's format. When you know what to expect, you won't waste time on test day reading and understanding directions. Depending on which PRAXIS II exam you are taking, your format can range from multiple choice to short answer questions. For instance, one English examination includes all multiple choice questions, while Diane Kern, the author of a PRAXIS study guide, writes that the Principals of Learning and Teaching exam contains short answer and multiple choice questions.
Take practice exams. Practice tests are available for each of the PRAXIS II subject examinations. Sometimes these tests can be found online, while books are almost always available. Using a timer, take a practice PRAXIS test under exam's actual time restrictions, which can be found by visiting ETS.org. Score your test. This provides you with an understanding of the subjects and types of questions that you need to improve upon.
Study content material. Focus on material that you answered incorrectly on your practice test. Diane Kern recommends using your old textbooks and web sites to help you learn the information that you did not know when taking your practice PRAXIS test. In addition, she suggests skimming your textbooks' tables of contents to re-acquaint yourself with important content areas.
Study exam questions. Without timing yourself, answer the questions in another practice PRAXIS test. Check your answers after each question, and make sure you understand why the correct answers are marked as such. Pay attention to the sentence structure and layout of the questions and answers, so that you are familiar with them when taking the test.
Take a second timed exam. Measure your improvement by comparing the results of this PRAXIS practice test to the first one you took. If you've improved significantly and are achieving your target score, you can schedule a testing date. If not, repeat steps 1-4 until you meet your goal.
Stay positive. Take care of your mental and physical health as the PRAXIS test approaches. Diane Kern suggests talking to those who can instill a sense of confidence in you. She also recommends relaxing and sleeping well the night before the test, and eating a healthy breakfast on test day.
Practice good test taking habits. According to George Washington University, you can reduce your text anxiety during an exam through positive self-talk, deep breathing, muscle relaxing, taking a breath, asking a question, and other techniques.