 Teaching to the test is frequently criticized by academics and educators, while its critics argue that students who are simply taught to the test fail to achieve a lasting and truly comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.Even if students score better on tests, something which different studies have not confirmed, critics worry students may not truly grasp the domain's key concepts, as teaching to the test centers on rote memorization while excluding the building of creative skills and abstract-thinking abilities.According to Richard D. Kahlenber, both teachers and students spend most of their time studying textbook concepts to prepare for exams, despite morality, aesthetic, life skills, and, depending on the student's ambitions, creativity being more important for success.