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1. Attend Every Class

Maybe this seems like second nature to you; if so, great! Good class attendance is worth mentioning, however, because for some students, the realization that no one is going to bust them for cutting class is so liberating that they begin skipping with abandon. If you fall prey to this tempting but very bad habit, you will be behind the eight ball when you have to prepare for a test. Even if you do all of the homework on your own, you will miss out on what your professor emphasizes -- and that's going to be the basis of the test. If you go to class, pay attention, and take notes, you will go a long way toward acing the test. If, on the other hand, you are reading this after a period of missing class from time to time, try to catch up with a classmate willing to share the notes with you.

2. Do Your Homework When You're Supposed To

Again, this tip might seem too simple to mention, but since it's a major part of a fool-proof strategy for acing a test, it's really not. Don't leave your reading assignments until the night before the test. There is no way you'll be able to absorb the information as effectively as you would have had you been doing the assignments as they were assigned. In addition, by doing your homework and being prepared for class, you will get more out of your experience in class, thereby increasing your chances of getting the coveted A.

3. The Days Leading Up To The Test

I really can't emphasize enough how helpful going to class and paying attention is. If you have done that, much of your preparation for the test is already done. What should you do in the days leading up to the test?

A. Review the notes you took. Make sure you understand them.

B. Your professor or TA might give you a review sheet with examples of questions, important concepts for the test, etc. Study this important resource and make sure you understand it as well.

C. Ask your professor about anything from your notes that now seems unclear to you. Your professor will probably have a review day, or at least a period for questions on the day before the test. Take advantage of this opportunity by asking prepared, informed questions.

Review more industry related articles by Elizabeth Saas at CareersandEducation.com Elizabeth Saas is a feature writer and often covers topics related to Campus degree programs and Career Advice.