Time Strategy for Higher Scoring on the AFQT/ASVAB

Good high school performance is a contributing factor to getting a high score on the ASVAB/AFQT, but that doesn't mean there is no hope for others who may not have performed to full potential. However, successful scores on the ASVAB require a strategic plan.

If budgetary concerns are a major obstacle to buying ASVAB review books or CDs, the public libraries of many cities and town contain a variety of study materials you can use to increase your scores. The Department of Defense website provides much technical and statistical data regarding the ASVAB-AFQT.

The advantage of using the public library, of course, is that the materials are free. A disadvantage of the public library is that you will have to return the materials. Whether you buy some ASVAB/AFQT review books from a regular bookseller like Border's, Barnes and Noble, or Amazon, it is important that you set aside regular study periods. This requires self-discipline.

Setting aside regular study time for the ASVAB will be a better approach than waiting until you find that perfect leisure moment that never comes. It is better to study for an hour at regular times every day than to study for six hours on one day of the week. Regular shorter study periods will alleviate the common problems that prevent test takers from doing well when test day rolls around. Regular short study periods will allow you discover your own work rate.

When it comes to the day of the test, you will appreciate the fact that you observed time strategies when you took the practice tests provided in preparation review books. The ASVAB core provides adequate time for you to answer all questions, but you will not have time to spare. The time you have for each section will be announced, so your best friend in both the practice test and in the real test will be your watch.

Look over the number of questions, and note the amount of time allotted for the test. When half the amount of time allotted has elapsed, you should be approximately half way through the test. It is important to keep up the pace or stay ahead of the pace. If you find you are ahead of the pace, you should keep going to the end, and if you still have time left, then go back and check your previous answers for accuracy.

A familiarity with your own individual pace, gained from practice testing, will help you stay on track with the time allocation the ASVAB provides.