Preparing For the Licensing State Test



 

During the months leading up to an exam, studying the material is not enough—you must train as if you were in the real scenario. Consistent practice, effective time management, and familiarization with the exam format are critical factors for achieving success. Below, I’ll outline strategies to optimize your preparation and turn each practice session into a powerful tool that brings you closer to your goal. During your preparation, it’s essential to incorporate timed practice exams into your routine. Many students overlook this strategy, but practicing under simulated conditions allows you to familiarize yourself with the format, manage time effectively, and improve your performance under pressure. For example, if you’re preparing for a real estate exam that lasts 3.5 hours, ensure you practice under similar conditions to get accustomed to the pace and demands of the test.

If you’re preparing for a different type of exam, it’s vital to understand the specific time constraints. During practice sessions, keep these tips in mind:
  1. Read each question carefully.
  2. Quickly select an answer and move on without dwelling on difficult questions.
  3. If unsure, use the process of elimination to narrow down choices, mark the most likely answer, and revisit it later if time permits.
  4. Aim to answer all questions within the time limit while maintaining a steady pace.

To manage your time effectively, calculate the maximum time allowed per question. For example:

  • In a 3.5-hour (210-minute) exam with 100 questions, you have approximately 2 minutes and 10 seconds per question.
  • In a 3-hour (180-minute) exam with 100 questions, you have about 1 minute and 48 seconds per question.

You can calculate the exact time for any exam by following these steps:

  1. Convert hours to minutes by multiplying by 60.
  2. Divide the total minutes by the number of questions.

Example:

Real Estate Course Exam with 100 questions in 3 hours:

  • 3 hours × 60 minutes = 180 minutes.
  • 180 minutes ÷ 100 questions = 1 minute and 48 seconds per question.

Example:

State Real Estate Exam with 100 questions in 3.5 hours:

  • 3.5 hours × 60 minutes = 210 minutes.
  • 210 minutes ÷ 100 questions = 2 minutes and 10 seconds per question.

Regular practice will also help you develop mental resilience. Taking full-length practice exams under realistic conditions strengthens your concentration and reduces anxiety. The key is to adapt to the exam’s pace, avoiding excessive time on any single question.

Another crucial skill is learning how to review your answers. If you finish early, use the remaining time to revisit the questions you marked as uncertain. However, avoid changing your answers impulsively unless you identify a clear mistake.

In states like Florida, multiple-choice exams administered by the computerized system have eliminated the use of paper, pencils, and blank sheets. Exam centers now only allow calculators and virtual electronic whiteboards. To avoid surprises, familiarize yourself with these tools in advance. Practice for months before the exam using apps like Microsoft Whiteboard or similar tools on your computer. While rules may vary in other states, it is wise to bring a pencil, eraser, and calculator in case blank sheets are permitted. Remember, asking the administrator is free—the worst they can say is no. Some exams, like open-book tests (e.g., end-of-course assessments or state licensing exams for a Master of Works License or General Contractor), present unique challenges.

Open-book exams might seem easier since you have access to materials, but they often prove more difficult due to time constraints. Searching for answers in a book consumes valuable minutes, and without adequate preparation, you might not finish all the questions. From personal experience, I prefer exams for which I have studied thoroughly. They are more manageable, predictable, and leave me confident in the outcome. Conversely, I find open-book exams unpredictable and frustrating. Despite searching for answers, I often finish without certainty about my performance, which can lead to dissatisfaction. Regardless of the exam format, the key is preparation, discipline, and anticipation. For computerized exams, make the most of the digital resources allowed. For open-book exams, organize and mark your materials in advance to save time. In every case, thorough preparation gives you an essential advantage, helping you approach any challenge with confidence.

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