A writing instrument.
Try pencils, pens, crayons, or even spray paint cans, but avoid anything
which can't be erased quickly. Ignore this condition if you
are a crosser-outer.
A calculator.
A simple four function (yes, they still make them) device is fine, although
nothing feels quite as good as an TI-85 in the palm. Maybe bring two.
Back-up power for the calculator.
Items like spare Duracells or even
portable electric generators work well.
Crib Sheet.
This can be loosely identified as notes for an "open book" test, but we advise
against carrying into a test any textbook unless the course is Assembler, in
which case the description of the entire IBM 360/70 instruction set might be
slightly useful. If it's for a course like Physics I, bring a magnifying glass so
you can read what you micro-printed the night before.
A Picture of an Authoritative
Intellectual.
A personal favorite is one of Albert Einstein, but a good profile of Max Planck
will do wonders to confuse the TA's minds. The photo is basically a simple
method to ensure that a great mind is overlooking your exam.
Stuffed Animal.
Nothing soothes the savage test-taker like a warm fuzzy. Your friendly bear,
penguin or tribble will work well.
Nourishment.
Brain food aside, a cold soda and munchies help take your mind off of
test-death. Long-lasting lollipops work very well and don't disturb your fellow
sufferers.
Small Portable TA.
This works best on tests that are open book, and the instructor has foolishly
acknowledged that "anything you can carry into the test, you can use." A real
fight starter. After all, your peers will all want to borrow
your TA.
Some Idea of How to
Answer the Questions.
This one seems almost too obvious, but it is often overlooked as being too
difficult, since it requires going to class, studying, doing the homework, etc.
And ALWAYS make sure you know exactly what course the exam is for --
studying Physics for a Calculus test renders much of the knowledge you
accumulated the night before useless.