We all know that mindset is half the game when taking tests. And that Preparation + Opportunity = Success. Here is a list of expert tips for the night before the test—and the morning of—so that you can feel calm and confident walking in:
1. Know exactly where the testing center is - Don’t figure this out the morning of the test. Know it as far in advance as possible. Make sure you have directions to the testing center. Make sure you know exactly what time you need to be there.
2. Set multiple alarms - Yours, your parents’, the one on your oven – every alarm. You don’t want to wake up late – the stress factor of doing so will be immense. There’s research showing that your brain maintains partial alertness on the night before a big test. But the alertness is reduced by setting alarms.
3. Pack everything you need – These items include:
Multiple sharpened #2 pencils
Erasers
Calculator
Extra batteries for the calculator
Photo ID
Printed testing ticket
A watch (make sure it doesn’t make any beeping noises – a dress watch works perfectly!)
4. Bring Snacks – A bottle of water, a granola bar, a banana – something quick and easy and to your liking. Not all centers let you bring snacks in, but you can grab them during breaks.
5. Eat a good dinner - Your brain burns about 20% of all your body’s calories. The day before your test, you should aim to eat a dinner composed of carbohydrates. Whole grain pastas and breads, combined with lots of fruits and vegetables.
6. Lay your clothes out the night before – Layered clothing and comfortable – you never know if the room is going to be hot or cold.
7. Stay home the night before - The night before the SAT is not the time to stay the night with your friend, so you can ride together in the morning. Chances are good you're going to stay up too late hanging out instead of getting your rest. Sleep in your own bed the night before, so you can get the best sleep possible.
8. Go to bed early - If you’ve been getting in bed at 11 p.m., try getting in bed at 10 p.m. Give yourself some extra time to fall asleep. Maybe put on a relaxing playlist.
We wish you the very best on test day!