The SAT can be stress inducing for a large number of reasons. It’s difficult, lengthy and, above all, your score on it can be extremely important when applying to colleges. Anything you can do to calm yourself down and mitigate the stress is for the best, especially on test day. So, keep these things in mind on the day and morning leading up to your triumph over the SAT.
Plan your route and post-test afternoon
Once you know where your testing center is it is a very good idea to map out the fastest and least-congested route. Knowing how long it will take you to get to your testing center on test day is of paramount importance because you cannot afford to be late. In fact, you should plan on being at least a half an hour early. If you have time, actually drive to the testing center to find the parking and entrances you will use on test day. If at all possible, have someone else drive on test day so that you can keep your head clear and focused. During the drive, don’t cram, but instead visualize yourself performing well on the test (as long as you are the passenger, that is!)
After the test is over, you should relax and take your mind off of work. Therefore, don’t schedule a shift at the restaurant you work at or plan on doing additional schoolwork that day. In short, relax and try to take your mind off the test. Perhaps going for a run or playing a game of soccer with your friends is a good idea. Physical activity clears the mind and will help you focus on other things because you definitely won’t want to sit around and dwell after taking the SAT.
Catch some serious ZZZs
This might seem like a no-brainer but it’s surprising how many students opt to cram on the night before the test instead of doing what’s best for their brains: sleep! How much you sleep is dependent on your sleep cycle, but definitely aim for somewhere between 7 and 10 hours. It’s important to remember to give yourself enough time in the morning to calmly get ready and prepare yourself something to eat too. Make sure all of the supplies you need (photo ID card, SAT admissions ticket, pencils, erasers, snacks, etc.) are in order the night before the test so that you are not scrambling to get yourself together on the morning of test day.
Get a good breakfast
This is extremely common advice, but what most test takers don’t ask themselves is, “What constitutes a good breakfast on test day?” You’re going to want something that energizes you but doesn’t fill you up too much. Any combination of oats, fruit and protein is a good option. Perhaps peanut butter on an English muffin and a banana or oatmeal, an apple and a couple of slices of bacon would be a couple of good choices. Protein, oats and natural sugars from fruit are the keys because they supply sustained energy. Stay away from sugary foods and coffee because the energy gained from them won’t last throughout the test.
Know the test section-by-section
Understanding the specifics about the different sections of the SAT and knowing the rules for each section will give you confidence on test day. It will also save you time once you begin the actual test. Please refer to this earlier blog post by Aristotle Expert Nina Berler to get a grasp on the different sections of the SAT.
Keeping the above things in mind and doing your best to accomplish them won’t make the SAT a breeze. They will, however, definitely help keep you focused, energized and calm which should help you achieve your best score possible. Good luck!