Yes,taking a practice test counts as studying.Research shows that one of the most effective forms of studying is using practice tests. Compared to passive review methods like rereading notes or highlighting textbooks, practice testing engages active recall, a cognitive process that strengthens long-term memory and deepens understanding.
Reason Practice Testing Is Powerful Studying
According to cognitive science, the act of retrieving information from memory without looking at notes builds stronger neural pathways. This is known as the testing effect or retrieval practice. Pulling information out of memory hardens that information in memory.
Students who use practice exams retain more, understand better, and perform significantly higher on final assessments even when the practice questions differ from the real test.
It’s Learning in Action
Practice tests do more than measure knowledge , they create it. As explained, “Retrieval is the process of trying to recall information from memory,” and dedicating study time to this process promotes “meaningful, long-term learning.” When students struggle to answer a question, that effort makes the brain to learn the correct concept more deeply upon review. Practice exams help learners identify knowledge gaps, reduce test anxiety, and simulate real exam conditions . This makes them not just a study tool, but a strategic rehearsal for success.
It only counts as effective studying when done without notes, with sincere effort to recall, and followed by review of mistakes. Simply skimming questions or guessing without reflection offers little benefit.
Practice test when used correctly, it transforms passive familiarity into active mastery, making it a cornerstone of successful exam preparation.