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General question - first time studying for CLEP exam - moose - 11-13-2016

Hi everyone. I am preparing to for my first CLEP exam, US History 1. I feel like as I am going through these study guide questions that I am really only memorizing answers and am concerned that, if on the actual exam, the questions are even worded slightly different that I won't be able to answer correctly. Should I be focused on just answering the question and memorizing key words and answers, or do I also need to fully understand the rationale given after the question is answered as well? For a first timer studying for the CLEP this is very overwhelming, but I am determined to do what needs to be done to be successful, just looking for a little guidance I guess.

Thank you!


General question - first time studying for CLEP exam - cookderosa - 11-13-2016

moose__ Wrote:Hi everyone. I am preparing to for my first CLEP exam, US History 1. I feel like as I am going through these study guide questions that I am really only memorizing answers and am concerned that, if on the actual exam, the questions are even worded slightly different that I won't be able to answer correctly. Should I be focused on just answering the question and memorizing key words and answers, or do I also need to fully understand the rationale given after the question is answered as well? For a first timer studying for the CLEP this is very overwhelming, but I am determined to do what needs to be done to be successful, just looking for a little guidance I guess.

Thank you!

both. Spend more time studying, you'll start to see the "big picture" as you do. Then, be sure to read the specific exam feedback for that exam, and you may even want to try a practice test. There are many free resources as well as Peterson's which is $20 for 3


General question - first time studying for CLEP exam - marianne202 - 11-13-2016

I always supplemented with things like X for dummies, Cliff's Notes etc. For some like the US Govt. Exam, I did print off the notes that others were so kind to share on the specific exam feedback board as well. Most of these exams test your knowledge of the major important topics and highlights, so as long as you get a handle on those concepts you should be able to figure out anything else that might be thrown in for good measure. Good luck!


General question - first time studying for CLEP exam - Synicaal - 11-13-2016

moose Wrote:Hi everyone. I am preparing to for my first CLEP exam, US History 1. I feel like as I am going through these study guide questions that I am really only memorizing answers and am concerned that, if on the actual exam, the questions are even worded slightly different that I won't be able to answer correctly. Should I be focused on just answering the question and memorizing key words and answers, or do I also need to fully understand the rationale given after the question is answered as well? For a first timer studying for the CLEP this is very overwhelming, but I am determined to do what needs to be done to be successful, just looking for a little guidance I guess.

Thank you!

I am 5 for 5 in CLEP exams using the REA Guides/Practice Tests. They run about $25 per book. Other people suggest using free sources which also work. I generally like using the REA guides because they do a great job with the information.


General question - first time studying for CLEP exam - clep3705 - 11-13-2016

https://www.amazon.com/CLEP%C2%AE-History-U-S-Online-Preparation/dp/0738610372/ref=pd_sbs_14_t_0?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=2AQR9WPSW8C1MAFZXJZE


General question - first time studying for CLEP exam - Lindagerr - 11-13-2016

You don't want to just memorize the answers because the questions will be different in both words and variety. Some people prefer using a different study guide, some like looking up more about an answer they don't understand and some like using practice test to see what the exam will be like. You need to see what works best for you. The main point is don't use just one method. If you have never taken a CLEP before I recommend at least one practice exam Free Clep Prep.com has one or check your local library they may have an old test prep book. Us History I is not going to change even if the book is an old version.


General question - first time studying for CLEP exam - rrr - 11-14-2016

The big picture is definitely important for this one. For me, it kind of helps to read through the study materials like a novel... these are the characters (Jefferson, Hamilton, Andrew Jackson, etc) and here's the chronological development of how and why things are developing. For example, you should be able to have a general concept of what life was like after the Civil War, rather than memorize specific facts and figures related to it. Have a general sense of why other countries did/did not get involved in our affairs, the general differences in political parties at the time, causes and effects of slavery, manifest destiny and land expansion, and how the nation's goals and strategies developed over the time period.