Praxis Core 2023-2024 For Dummies, 4th Edition

Chapter 19

Ten Mistakes to Avoid on the Praxis Reading and Writing Exams

IN THIS CHAPTER

Unlearning instincts for the reading and writing tests

Understanding what the graders of the essays aren’t looking for

Taking care not to outsmart yourself

We have instincts for a reason, but they don’t always serve us well in every context. If you’ve ever played baseball or softball, you’ve probably learned that “an outfielder’s first step is always back” — this is an example of a rule that players have to internalize in order to help them unlearn their natural instinct to run forward when the ball is hit. Running toward the ball is what your mind wants you to do, but by doing so, you run the risk of misjudging the ball and watching it sail over your head.

Just like sports, test-taking is an arena where your mind sometimes encourages you to do the wrong thing, and in those situations, you have to learn not to follow your instincts. This chapter helps you steer clear of common errors that test-takers make on the writing and reading portions of the Praxis Core.

Avoiding Mistakes Common to the Writing and Reading Tests

Before we turn to specific pieces of advice about the writing and reading ...