 The GED has developed an undeserved reputation as being less than a high school diploma. It is certainly different and for many students it is more difficult to obtain. The purveyor of the GED examination, American Council on Education, does something interesting each spring. Its members go out into America and give the tests to a group of graduating high school seniors who are on the cusp of graduation; little doubt remains that they will get the piece of paper. Results showed that of the students who take this exam, 30 percent fail. Every year.
There are ways to improve your score that go beyond just showing up and taking the test. You can ensure passing the exam by increasing your knowledge of the test and of test-taking skills. The following are ten ways to create your own success.
1. Study the exam.
A good place to start is with understanding what is expected of you on the exam. Visit the American Council on Education’s website and decide where you need to spend your study time (or even if you need to have study time). Understanding the exam format is of high importance for your success.
2. Take a practice test.
On the market there are a number of quite good ones. You may select two, it really doesn’t matter which, and take a practice exam from each book. It is a good idea to take two because there can be a wide variation in what is on the practice exam. In case you pass a particular area on both exams by a substantial margin, it is safe to assume that you can spend your time elsewhere studying other subjects. Besides, there is a free practice test on Internet. But do not rely solely on the results of that test to determine whether you possess knowledge in a particular area. Also, it is important to get up-to-date books. Note, the test was substantially changed in 2002 and books prior to that are now out-of-date.
3. Take an online course.
Beware: there is no way to take the GED exam online. What can you take are online courses that prepare you to take the GED. If you live in a state like Illinois that offers GED preparation online, you can avail yourself of their ready-made program. You may inquire with your state department of education’s website or at your local adult school.
4. Take an in-seat course.
Consider a number of traditional classroom-based courses available. It is better to check with your local adult school or adult education center. Take into account two reasons why you should select this route. The first reason is that it forces you to be in a room where the knowledge is being presented. This may serve you well, if your past educational history suggests that you are not an independent learner. Second reason is that these courses are sometimes free or greatly reduced in price.
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