The CSET multiple subjects test is broken into three main subtests. The first subtest has 26 questions dealing with reading, language, and literature, and another 26 questions dealing with history and social science. The second subtest has 26 questions dealing with science, and 26 math questions. The third subtest has 13 questions each on physical education, human development, and visual and performing arts.
Texas Instruments TI-108 calculators are provided during the science and mathematics portions of the tests.
Suggested information to review for the reading and language portion includes the fundamentals of linguistics, the structure of language, and how language develops both for an individual and for a society. Along with this, review the fundamentals of handwriting and composition, parts of speech, and rules of grammar and spelling. People taking the CSET Multiple Subjects Exam should recognize both typical language development, and exceptional ability for language development. They should also know the techniques for measuring language fluency in both verbal and nonverbal forms.
For the history and science subtest, review American and European history and prominent historical figures. The candidate should also be familiar with the societies most important to the development of ancient civilizations, the Egyptians, Greeks, Romans, and Chinese. The history portion also includes medieval society, and the roles of different cultures and religions during this time period. Economic and social innovations are also covered in this sub-exam.
Any science review should cover the concepts of scientific testing, chemistry, the basic laws of physics, astronomy, including an explanation of orbits and how gravity impacts life on earth; earth science, like geology and volcanology; biology, including knowledge of human anatomy and systems within the body. Ecosystems and life cycles may also be tested on this part of the exam. The candidate should know the physical properties of matter and how they relate to one another. The mathematics portion of the CSET Multiple Subjects Exam covers the relationships between numbers and basic concepts in manipulation of numbers, graphs, equations, and the fundamental properties of geometry.
The physical education subtest covers methods for teaching physical education and movement. For human development, any review should cover basic human development from conception through adulthood. This review should include physical as well as psychological development at each stage. Review music and dance and the roles they play in society for the visual and performing arts subtest.