How to survive the finnish language test, part 1

I was asked to write a post about the Finnish language test itself and my experience, so here goes nothing! This is my step-by-step guide to sitting the YKI test:

• Step 1 -  Register successfully

 See my previous post for test registration tips!

• Step 2  - Prepare for the test as best you can, here are some tips:

- YKItreenit website offers online tests comprising either open practice tests or tests on specific language elements such as listening, reading or writing. All you need to do to access the tests is register for the site, get yourself an YLE Passi and off you go!

- Download some selkouutiset podcasts in which you can listen to the Finnish news being read slowly and clearly!

- Talk to your Finnish-speaking friends and colleagues as much as possible in Finnish. Practice makes perfect ;)

• Step 3 - Test day!

- Arrive at the test location a bit early, as they usually don't accept late-comers. Don't come too early or you'll just stress yourself out more in anticipation :)

- Bring a pencil, a spare pencil and a rubber with you. You are not allowed to write in ink.

- The test lasts up to 4 hours and it varies according to test location whether there is a 30 minute break in the middle or 5-10 minute breaks in-between each discipline. In both cases, it's a great idea to bring a snack along to replenish your energy as it can be quite exhausting. I'd recommend a banana or a cereal bar!

- It's like being back in school, during the breaks, don't cave in a discuss with the other people which multiple-choice answers you picked. You'll only make yourself feel worse!

• Step 4 - Do your worst.

That's a joke. It's just an expression meaning do your best to inflict damage on this test. You rule.

In Part 2 I'll go into to more detail about the actual parts of the test and all that lovely stuff. Watch this space!

---