(student)

I'm scheduled to take a placement test in math on Saturday. Is this something I really need to do?

(advisor)

It's to your advantage to take the placement test, but you don't have to.

(student)

What's the advantage of taking the placement test?

(advisor)

If you take the math placement test and do well on it, you don't have to take the beginning math class. You'll be able to start with an intermediate or even an advanced math class if you get a high score on the placement test.

(student)

And if I don't take the math placement test, then I have to start with the beginning math class?

(advisor)

That's right.

(student)

Well, then, I think I can save myself an entire semester-long course if I do as well as I think I can.