THE TECHNIQUE OF GIVING TESTS l6l 
In giving an examination composed of a series of tests, 
every preparation should be made so that each test will 
follow the other with a minimum of delay. Nothing so 
disturbs an individual in such a situation as periods of 
uncertainty and suspense. Therefore, all materials should 
be arranged in order and in completeness, so that the ex 
aminer is ready to start explaining the next test at the 
same instant in which the subject completes the previous 
°ne. This sounds like a comparatively simple matter; 
but any one who has given tests knows that it is an art 
which can be acquired only by a great deal of practice. 
An observer, standing over the expert examiner and watch- 
ln g him as he gives one test after another, is struck with 
the smoothness and dispatch of the process. He does not 
realize that there are intricacies and devices here which 
Were developed only after months of experiment and 
practice. The psychologist, familiar with the minutiae 
°f his technique, can impart this knowledge to a novice 
m a comparatively short time. The novice, however, 
if left to himself, may blunder for months without develop- 
ln g the necessary technique or acquiring a knowledge of 
the significant details. The technique of giving tests 
1s j in this respect, much like the game of chess. One 
who is not familiar with the game may watch its interesting 
rnoves for hours without comprehending their meaning. 
To give a psychological examination without awkward 
tUoves, simple though it appears, is a game which, like 
tbe game of chess, requires explanation and rules. The 
psychological examiner must acquire the technique of this 
game. 
One of the most important features of this technique is 
*be matter of giving directions. Something has already 
been said about this in the paragraph on starting the test.