Not many students are familiar with open-book tests, which are exams where the teacher allows you to use your textbooks and notes as references while you sit for the test.
This concept of testing is not easy since it is designed to teach you how to use your brain. As such, the questions will ask you to explain, evaluate, discuss or compare and contrast, among others.
Many students assume it is just a matter of looking up answers from the material they have. This is not the case. You will be required to understand concepts. A student has to understand how to find information, write good notes and organise their material so that it is easy to find.
Because time allowed to do these exams is often limited, it is encouraged that you use your books for supporting information only.
Below are other tips one can apply in preparing for the open-book test:
• Read ahead of time keeping in mind that it will not be easy to find quick answers during the test.
• Master your books in such a way that you know where to find everything. Take note of the headings and sub-headings so that the structures are reinforced in your mind.
• Highlight all important chapters, pages and terms whenever you notice them so that you will not waste time searching for info during the exam. Also prepare brief summaries of important facts and information for quick references e.g. writing in margins or on separate sheets of paper.
• Do not overload yourself with books that you may not use in the exam room.
• During the test, evaluate each question and assess whether it requires facts or interpretation. As you do this, quote the textbook appropriately - do not rewrite the whole book.
• Start with questions whose answers you are more familiar with, this will give you ample time to complete the exam.
• Never copy word for word information from the book. This test is not meant to measure how good you are at locating information but to know whether you have mastered content.
