Turn Wrong Answers into Wins: The Review Method That Works

Introduction: The Hidden Value of Wrong Answers

Too many students take SHSAT practice tests, glance at their scores, and move on. That wastes the single most valuable resource in prep: mistakes.

Every wrong answer is a free lesson—if reviewed the right way. This article introduces a 5-step review method that turns wrong answers into lasting wins.

The 5-Step SHSAT Review Method

Step 1: Label the Error Type

  • Concept Error: Didn’t know the rule (e.g., geometry formula).

  • Careless Error: Knew the concept but miscalculated.

  • Timing Error: Ran out of time, rushed.

  • Strategy Error: Used the wrong approach.

👉 Labeling prevents repeating the same blind spot.

Step 2: Re-Solve Without Looking

Cover the answer key and solve again. If you can’t fix it, the gap is deeper than you thought.

Step 3: Write a Mini-Explanation

Summarize the correct method in one sentence. Example:

  • Wrong: “Guessed area of triangle by multiplying all sides.”

  • Right: “Area = ½ × base × height, not perimeter.”

Step 4: Create a Mini-Drill

Write 2–3 similar problems targeting that exact skill. Practice until solved correctly.

Step 5: Schedule Spaced Review

Review the error again in 2 days, 7 days, and 21 days. This repetition cements learning.

Example: Fixing a Math Error

Question: Find the area of a right triangle with base 6, height 8.

  • Student’s Error: Multiplied 6 × 8 = 48, forgot to divide by 2.

  • Fix: Wrote formula “½ × base × height = 24.”

  • Mini-Drill: Solve 3 more triangle area problems.

Why This Works (The Science)

Educational psychology shows that retrieval + spaced practice = long-term memory. Reviewing mistakes this way strengthens recall under test pressure.

Case Study: Two Approaches

  • Student A: Took 10 practice tests, barely reviewed. Score flatlined.

  • Student B: Took 6 practice tests, applied 5-step review method. Score rose 80 points.

Quality review beats quantity of tests.

FAQ: Reviewing SHSAT Mistakes

Q1: Should students rewrite every wrong answer?
Yes—re-solving builds active recall, not passive recognition.

Q2: How long should review take?
At least as long as taking the test itself. Review is where real learning happens.

Q3: Should I keep all old tests?
Yes—review them before test day to spot recurring mistakes.

External Resources

  • Learning Scientists – Error Review

  • NYC DOE Practice Resources

Student Checklist: Review Method

✅ Label error type.
✅ Re-solve without answer key.
✅ Write a mini-explanation.
✅ Make 2–3 mini-drills.
✅ Review again in 2/7/21 days.

Conclusion: Mistakes Are Gold

Every wrong answer is a chance to grow. With the 5-step review method, students don’t just fix mistakes—they prevent them on test day.

Next Read: Build a Study Plan Around School, Sports & Life

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