Common test prep mistakes in middle school

Key Takeaways

Audience Spotlight: Supporting Neurodivergent Middle School Learners

Middle school is a time of rapid growth and change, especially for neurodivergent learners. Many parents notice that test preparation can bring unique challenges—whether your child is navigating ADHD, autism, dyslexia, or another learning difference. It is important to remember that common test prep mistakes in middle school are not a sign of failure or lack of effort. Every child approaches tests differently, and neurodivergent students may need extra support with focus, organization, and stress management. By recognizing these needs, parents can help their children approach test prep with confidence and develop strategies that work for them.

Definitions

Test preparation refers to the process of reviewing material, practicing skills, and building confidence before a quiz, test, or exam. Neurodivergent learners are students whose brains process information differently, including those with ADHD, autism, dyslexia, or similar learning differences.

What Are the Most Common Test Prep Mistakes in Middle School?

When it comes to academic growth, mistakes are a part of learning. With so many changes in routine, expectations, and learning styles, it is no surprise that common test prep mistakes in middle school can happen to any student. Parents of neurodivergent children often wonder what pitfalls to watch for and how to help their child avoid them. Here are some of the most frequent test prep mistakes, along with examples and tips for addressing them.

1. Waiting Until the Last Minute

Many middle schoolers, especially those with executive function challenges, put off studying until the night before a test. This habit creates unnecessary stress and rarely leads to deep learning. Experts in child development note that last-minute cramming can overwhelm working memory, which is especially tough for neurodivergent learners who may already struggle with focus or time management.

Try this: Help your child break study material into smaller sections over several days. Use a visual calendar or checklist to plan short review sessions. Celebrate progress, not just test scores, to reinforce steady effort.

2. Relying Only on Rereading Notes

Rereading notes may feel safe, but it is not the most effective way for middle schoolers to remember information. Many teachers and parents report that students who only review notes miss out on deeper understanding. Neurodivergent learners often benefit from active strategies that engage multiple senses.

Try this: Encourage your child to use flashcards, explain concepts aloud, draw diagrams, or teach the material back to you. These active approaches make studying more memorable and less boring.

3. Skipping Practice Tests or Sample Questions

Practice tests help students get comfortable with test formats and timing. Skipping this step is one of the most common test prep mistakes in middle school. Without practice, neurodivergent learners may feel extra anxious or surprised by test conditions.

Try this: Ask your child’s teacher for sample questions or make a simple quiz together at home. Review the results with encouragement, focusing on growth and effort, not just right or wrong answers. Practice tests can also help your child identify which topics need more review.

4. Ignoring Directions or Rushing Through Questions

Some students, especially those with attention differences, may rush through tests or miss details in instructions. This can lead to avoidable mistakes. Remind your child that careful reading is just as important as knowing the content.

Try this: Practice reading directions together at home. Model how to slow down, underline key words, and check answers before moving on. Build these habits during homework sessions, not just before big tests.

5. Not Asking for Help When Confused

It is common for middle schoolers to feel embarrassed about asking questions. Neurodivergent learners may be especially hesitant if past experiences have been discouraging. Yet, waiting too long to seek help can leave gaps in understanding.

Try this: Remind your child that everyone needs help sometimes. Encourage them to talk to you, a teacher, or a trusted adult when they feel stuck. Role-play how to ask questions or write emails to teachers. If your child has an IEP or 504 plan, review it together so they know what supports are available.

How Can Parents Improve Middle School Test Preparation?

Building positive study habits takes time and patience. If you want to improve middle school test preparation for your neurodivergent child, start by focusing on routines and emotional support. Here are some strategies:

• Set up a consistent workspace: Choose a quiet, comfortable spot for study sessions. Reduce distractions by turning off unnecessary devices.
• Break tasks into smaller steps: Use checklists, timers, or visual schedules to help your child stay organized and see their progress.
• Build in movement breaks: Physical activity or stretching can help reset focus, especially for kids who have trouble sitting still.
• Celebrate effort, not just results: Recognize your child’s hard work and persistence, even if the test outcome is not perfect.
• Model positive self-talk: Show your child how to reframe mistakes as learning opportunities instead of failures.

For more practical tips, visit our resources on study habits for families.

Study Habits That Help Neurodivergent Middle Schoolers Succeed

Every child is unique, and the best study habits are those that match your child’s strengths and needs. For neurodivergent middle schoolers, routines and predictability can help reduce anxiety around tests. Try these approaches at home:

• Use color-coded folders or labels to organize subjects.
• Let your child choose when to study, such as after a snack or physical activity.
• Incorporate interests into study time—turn math practice into a game or use favorite stories for reading review.
• Discuss test accommodations or supports with your child’s teachers and encourage your child to self-advocate when possible.

Parent Question: What If My Child Feels Overwhelmed by Tests?

Many parents worry when their child becomes anxious or discouraged about testing. It is normal to feel this way, especially during middle school, when expectations are higher. If your child feels overwhelmed, pause to validate their feelings. Remind them that making mistakes is part of learning and that you are proud of their effort. Consider partnering with teachers to adjust assignments or provide extra support. If anxiety becomes severe or persistent, reach out to your school counselor or a mental health professional for more guidance.

Grade 6–8 Test Prep Strategies for Neurodivergent Learners

Middle schoolers in grades 6–8 are learning to balance independence with support. For neurodivergent students, personalized strategies can make all the difference. Try these grade-specific ideas:

• Sixth Grade: Practice time management by setting timers for homework and study breaks. Introduce one new study habit at a time.
• Seventh Grade: Encourage self-reflection after each test—what worked, what was hard, and what could be different next time? Use this feedback to adjust routines.
• Eighth Grade: Begin exploring more advanced study skills, such as outlining, summarizing, or using graphic organizers. Support your child in preparing for larger projects or exams.

Tutoring Support

At K12 Tutoring, we understand how important it is to support neurodivergent learners and their families. Our tutors provide personalized strategies that help students build confidence, develop effective study habits, and avoid common test prep mistakes in middle school. We partner with families to address individual strengths and challenges, making test preparation a more positive and empowering experience.

Related Resources

• Understanding Assessment: Resources for Parents – Edutopia
• Parents’ Guide to Standardized Testing – Reading Rockets
• Understanding and Interpreting SAT® Suite Scores and Reports

Trust & Transparency Statement

Last reviewed: October 2025
This article was prepared by the K12 Tutoring education team, dedicated to helping students succeed with personalized learning support and expert guidance. K12 Tutoring content is reviewed periodically by education specialists to reflect current best practices and family feedback. Have ideas or success stories to share? Email us at [email protected].