What benefit does practice testing provide to students?

Practice testing is a highly effective learning technique that enhances retention and understanding of material. Engaging in practice tests allows students to actively recall information, which strengthens neural connections related to the content being studied. This retrieval practice helps to reinforce memory and improve long-term retention compared to passive studying methods like reading or highlighting.

Moreover, when students take practice tests, they are able to identify knowledge gaps, assess their understanding of the material, and focus their subsequent study efforts on areas that require more attention. This understanding not only aids in retention but also fosters a deeper engagement with the subject matter, leading to improved comprehension.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately reflect the benefits of practice testing. For example, it does not eliminate the need for studying; instead, it complements study efforts. While competition among peers may result from practice testing, it is not the primary benefit or purpose of the method. Additionally, while practice testing can improve grades by enhancing understanding, it does not guarantee high grades across all subjects, as success can also depend on various factors such as individual study habits, teaching quality, and the difficulty of the subject matter.