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Kelly Roell

Should You Ever Change Your First Answer?

By , About.com GuideAugust 23, 2012

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scantronWe've heard it all before: never change your first answer on a test, because your instinct is usually correct. If you go back and switch from choice A to choice B, you're more likely to get it wrong (and subsequently kick yourself).

But is that always the truth? Are there instances when you should change your first answer?

In short, yes!

Many studies over the last 30-40 years have shown that changing first answers may actually improve overall scores, especially if the student feels rushed or has been distracted. A study in 1984 indicates that testers, more often than not, change their scores from incorrect to correct scores more often than not.

But there are cases, however, where changing your answer can actually hurt your score. Want the details? Here they are:

Is Trusting Your Gut Good Testing Strategy?


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