Find the Catch
Most exams have trick questions. A word like 'always,' 'never,' 'except' amongst other tricks can help you find the right answers.
Underline the key words first. A few extra seconds of reading saves you from dumb mistakes.
You speed through the question, pick the first answer that looks right, and lose points on things you already knew well.
What's in it for you
Get easy points you used to miss
Most of the points you lose on tests are from trick questions, not hard questions. This simple habit helps you catch them every time.
Feel in control during tests
Instead of rushing through and hoping for the best, you know exactly what to look for. The test feels like a game you can win.
Raise your grade with zero extra studying
You already know the answers. You just need to stop falling for the traps. A few extra seconds of reading is all it takes.
How to actually do this
Read the whole question first
Before you look at the answers, read the entire question slowly. Don't skip any words.
Look for trap words
Circle words like "always," "never," "except," "not," or "all of the above." These words change the whole meaning of the question.
Pick your answer, then double-check
Once you think you have the right answer, read the question one more time with your answer in mind. Does it still make sense? If yes, move on.
Alternative: Use AI to help
Use one of our AI prompts to create practice questions with trick answers. It will help you practice spotting traps before the real test.
The science behind it
Most wrong answers on tests are not because you did not study. Here is what actually happens:
Your brain takes shortcuts
When you are stressed or rushing, your brain reads the first few words and guesses the rest. It picks the answer that looks right instead of the one that is right. Slowing down stops this from happening.
One word can change everything
A question that says "which is always true" and "which is sometimes true" have completely different answers. Most students miss these small words and lose points they should have gotten.
Want to stop losing points on silly mistakes?