Test Taking Tips

All classified positions at the Hacienda La Puente Unified School District require some sort of testing. Most positions will require passing of both a written exam (multiple choice) and structured interview. Please click on the type of exam you are interested in below.

How to Take a Multiple Choice Test
How To Interview



How to Take a Multiple Choice Test

Prepare yourself by understanding the structure of a multiple-choice test and how to approach these types of exams. By carefully reading each question and answer choices offered, you can increase your chances of performing well on any multiple-choice test you take.

  • Get a good night’s sleep before the test and eat before arriving for the test. Feeling rested and eating a balanced diet will go a long way in relieving pre-test jitters.
  • Allow plenty of time to travel to the location where you will be taking the test. If you are not sure where the test location is, try to drive there the day before to familiarize yourself with the area. It is important to plan for traffic, accidents, etc. Once the test begins, the doors will be locked, and you will not be allowed to enter. It is your responsibility to arrive on time and make-up sessions will likely not be offered.
  • All of the test items are multiple choice. They are designed to have only one answer. If more than one answer seems correct, choose the one that you believe is the best.
  • Read all of the directions carefully.
  • Read each question completely before answering it.
  • Questions left blank will be marked as incorrect. It is in your best interest to answer all of the questions. It is better to guess than to leave a question blank. Your score will be based on the number of correct answers.
  • For most tests, there is a set time limit for the entire test. You do not need to complete the questions in order. Before beginning the test, look it over and see what order would be best for you to work in. Would it be better to begin with the section you find the most difficult or to begin with the easiest? For some people, answering the easy questions first is a time saver and a confidence builder.
  • Occasionally check to make sure your scantron answer sheet is correct and corresponds to the question you are on. We ask that you do not write on the actual test booklets and no responses marked on the test booklets will be scored.
  • Occasionally check the clock. Typically, all questions are scored the same regardless of difficulty; do not spend too much time on any one question.
  • Plan your time so that you may complete the examination within the time allowed. You will be told how long you have to complete the test before you begin. You will also be instructed when to start and stop.
  • Interpret words according to their generally accepted meanings.
  • If you get stuck on a question, don’t get worried and frustrated. Re-read the question to make sure you understand it, and answer it to the best of your ability.
  • Remember that the process of elimination can help you choose the correct answer on a multiple-choice test. Start by ruling out answers that can’t be correct or are obviously wrong. Then spend your time focusing on the possible correct choices and choose from those.
  • When you are finished and have extra time, don’t stop and turn in your test! Go back and make sure you have answered every question and review your answers to make sure you didn’t make any careless mistakes, such as putting the right answer in the wrong place.
  • Stay relaxed and confident!

Back To Top


How to Interview

Use the following tips to effectively prepare for and present yourself during an interview, helping to increase your chances for job opportunities and promotions!

  • Interviewers may be subconsciously influenced by the physical appearance of an applicant during the interview even if they are explicitly instructed to disregard attire. Use your best judgment when deciding what to wear for your interview.
  • Collect information about the position for which you are interviewing. Review the job description and the job announcement.
  • The questions will be related to knowledge, skills, and abilities required for the job; therefore, use the above documents to think of potential questions and rehearse answers. Decide which parts of your background and experience are most important for this position.
  • Have friends and family quiz you.
  • If speaking in front of others makes you nervous, practice.
  • When answering the questions, try to be as succinct and clear as possible. Do not use acronyms or slang.
  • Remember that this is an examination and NOT a hiring interview. Everyone will be asked the same questions in the same order. How you answer the questions will determine your score on the interview.
  • In most cases, the interviewers are from outside organizations and school districts and do not know about your qualifications. It may be useful to pretend that you are talking to complete strangers and want to put your best effort into your presentation. Your interview will be scored based only on the information you present during the interview.

Back To Top