Which approach is effective for time management during tests?

Answering the easiest questions first is an effective approach for time management during tests because it allows students to quickly accumulate points and build confidence as they progress through the exam. Starting with questions that the student feels confident about can create a positive momentum, reducing anxiety and potentially leading to better performance throughout the test. Additionally, this strategy helps ensure that the easier questions are answered before the time pressure increases, safeguarding those points even if the student runs out of time on more difficult questions.

In contrast, spending equal time on all questions can lead to inefficiency, causing students to miss out on easier items and potentially losing valuable points. Skipping challenging questions entirely may result in missed opportunities for partial credit or even the correct answer if time permits later on. Reading through the entire test before starting can help with overall strategy but is time-consuming and may not contribute to securing points in a timely manner. Therefore, focusing on the easier questions first is a strategic method for managing both time and stress effectively during a test.