Praxis Test Prep: Before the Test

1. Learn what the test covers.

You can find test specifications for your test(s) in the free Test at a Glance (TAAG). Each TAAG outlines the content categories that will be measured by the test and what percentage of the test will be devoted to each topic.

2. Assess how well you know the content.
Research has shown that test takers tend to overestimate their preparedness — this is why some test takers assume they did well and then find out they did not pass.

The Praxis tests are demanding enough to require serious review of likely content, and the longer you've been away from the content the more preparation you will most likely need. If it has been longer than a few months since you've studied your content area, you will want to make a concerted effort to prepare for the Praxis tests.

3. Collect study materials.
Obtaining and organizing your review materials for review are critical steps in preparing for thePraxis tests. Consider the following reference sources as you plan your study:

• Did you take a course in which the content area was covered? If yes, do you still have your book(s) or your notes?
• Does your college library have a good introductory college-level textbook in this area?
• Does your local library have a high school-level textbook?

Additional test preparation resources such as study guides and practice tests are available for many Praxis tests. Check the Prepare for a Test page to see what materials are available for your test.

4. Plan and organize your time.
You can begin to plan and organize your time while you are still collecting materials. Allow yourself plenty of time to review so you can avoid "cramming" new material at the end. Here are a few tips:

• Choose a test date far enough in the future to leave you plenty of preparation time.
• Work backward from that date to figure out how much time you will need for review.
• Set a realistic schedule and stick to it.

5. Develop a study plan.
A study plan provides a roadmap to prepare for the Praxis tests. It can help you understand what skills and knowledge are covered on the test and where to focus your attention. A written study plan (PDF) can help you organize your efforts.

6. Practice explaining the key concepts.
Praxis II® constructed-response tests assess your ability to explain material effectively. As a teacher, you'll need to be able to explain concepts and processes to students in a clear, understandable way. What are the major concepts you will be required to teach? Can you explain them in your own words accurately, completely and clearly? Practice explaining these concepts to test your ability to effectively explain what you know.

7. Understand how questions will be scored.
Scoring information can be found in the TAAG for each test.

ETS's free Praxis webinars deliver in-depth information and demonstrations about Praxis test preparation products and services.

Learn how you can ensure success as you prepare for teacher licensure. Each live session provides attendees with the opportunity to interact and ask questions, so we encourage you to participate. View the schedule below for more information regarding the live webinars.

Scheduled Live Webinar Dates

• Praxis Core Math - May 20 from 5:00 - 7:00 PM ET
• Praxis Core Grammar - May 21 from 5:00 - 7:00 PM ET
• Praxis Core Reading - May 22 from 5:00 - 7:00 PM ET
• Praxis Core Essay - May 23 from 5:00 - 7:00 PM ET

Prerecorded Webinars

If a live webinar date doesn’t work with your schedule, be sure to watch our webinar video, Preparing to Take a Praxis® Test (13 mins., 12 sec.), to learn about the resources from ETS that can help you prepare for a Praxis test. (View transcript.)

You can find more information at this link: FREE Praxis Core Webinars

• Define content areas: List the most important content areas to be covered on the test as outlined in the Study Companion.
• Determine strengths and weaknesses: Identify your strengths and weaknesses in each content area using the Study Companion.
• Identify resources available: Identify books, courses and other resources you plan to use for each content area.
• Develop a schedule: Create and commit to a schedule that provides for regular study periods.
• Study with others: Join a study group and prepare with others who are planning to take the same Praxis test.
• Review previous score reports: If you are retaking a Praxis test, review your score report, discuss it with your academic advisor, and target areas for additional study.