Test-Taking Strategies

Success on the cosmetology state board exam requires more than just knowledge of the material. Having effective test-taking strategies can significantly improve your score and reduce anxiety on exam day.

Time Management

The written portion of most state board exams consists of approximately 110 questions to be completed in 90 minutes. This gives you roughly 49 seconds per question.

Pacing Strategy

1. First Pass (60 minutes): Answer all questions you know immediately. Mark difficult ones and move on.
2. Second Pass (25 minutes): Return to marked questions with fresh perspective.
3. Final Review (5 minutes): Verify answer sheet is complete, check for stray marks.

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Reading Questions Carefully

Many errors occur because candidates misread questions. Follow these guidelines:

Key Techniques

• Read the entire question before looking at answer choices
• Identify keywords like "EXCEPT," "NOT," "ALWAYS," "NEVER," "MOST," "LEAST"
• Watch for double negatives that can reverse the question's meaning
• Note qualifying words like "usually," "sometimes," "may"

Common Question Patterns

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Process of Elimination

When you're unsure of an answer, systematically eliminate wrong choices:

Steps for Elimination

1. Eliminate obviously wrong answers - Cross out answers that are clearly incorrect
2. Look for absolutes - Words like "always" and "never" are often incorrect
3. Compare similar answers - If two answers are very similar, one is likely correct
4. Trust patterns - Answers that are more detailed or qualified are often correct
5. Use context clues - Other questions may hint at the answer

When Two Answers Seem Correct

• Choose the more specific answer
• Choose the answer that directly addresses the question
• Choose the answer that reflects best professional practice
• If still unsure, go with your first instinct

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Handling Difficult Questions

Not every question will be easy. Here's how to handle the tough ones:

Mark and Move Strategy

1. Don't spend more than 90 seconds on any single question during your first pass
2. Mark the question for review using the testing software's flag feature
3. Make an educated guess before moving on (in case you run out of time)
4. Return later with fresh eyes during your second pass

Types of Difficult Questions

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Managing Test Anxiety

Some nervousness is normal and can actually improve performance. Excessive anxiety requires management:

Before the Exam

• Get adequate sleep the night before (7-8 hours minimum)
• Eat a nutritious breakfast with protein and complex carbs
• Arrive early to avoid rushing and added stress
• Avoid cramming - review notes briefly, don't learn new material
• Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing

During the Exam

Deep Breathing Technique

1. Inhale slowly through your nose for 4 counts
2. Hold for 4 counts
3. Exhale slowly through your mouth for 4 counts
4. Repeat 3-5 times

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When to Guess vs. Skip

Understanding your exam's scoring system helps determine the best approach:

Most State Board Exams

• No penalty for wrong answers - Never leave a question blank
• Guess intelligently - Use elimination first
• Make an educated choice - Even if unsure, choose something

Smart Guessing Strategy

1. Eliminate at least one option - Improves odds from 25% to 33%
2. Eliminate two options - Improves odds to 50%
3. Look for answer patterns - Avoid choosing the same letter repeatedly
4. Trust your gut - Your subconscious may recognize the right answer

Final Rule

NEVER leave any question unanswered. There is no penalty for guessing, so always select an answer, even if you're unsure.