Originally Posted: Jun 5, 2017
Last Updated: Jun 5, 2017
Before you go into the SAT or ACT thinking you’ve heard everything about the tests, I want to share some test-taking tips that may surprise you.
Here are a few things the test makers and prep teachers don’t tell you about test day…
Loooong lines
The ACT and SAT test makers usually tell you to get to the test center at a little before 8:00 am, the supposed start time. However, I suggest getting there around 7:25 am.
Of course, it depends on the popularity of your test center, but from my experience, you should be in the registration line by 7:30–7:45. You don’t want to be the one person holding up your room to start testing, do you? (No, you don’t. No one likes that person.) Besides, being early never hurt anyone.
So nervous you could puke—literally
I know, I know. You may not be nervous about taking the tests at all. However, the students around you very well may be.
I have personally seen frantic crying, last-minute equation cramming—even nervous pukers. It was not pleasant. Mentally prepare yourself before the test, and don’t let these distractions deter you from your goal: acing the ACT or SAT.
Brrrr…
I don’t know about you, but I’m always freezing in classrooms. If you’re familiar with your testing location, you can probably anticipate if it is going to be hot or cold in the classroom, so dress accordingly! But, if you have never been to your testing location, it’s a great idea to dress in layers…just like your parents used to tell you. Being uncomfortable with the temperature is not a fun way to spend four hours or more testing. Layers, layers, layers!
Bathroom breaks
Many times I have been too scared to take a potty break because I was afraid I wouldn’t be back to the testing room in time. However, after venturing out to the restrooms my last time taking the ACT, I can affirm that you will have time. It’s not a good idea to “hold it in”; that just leads to more issues.
All packed up and somewhere to be
Okay, so maybe you have heard this standardized test tip before—but only because it’s so important! Gather your sharpened pencils, printed admission ticket, charged calculator, and hearty snack the night before the big day so you are not stressing about any of these the morning of the test.
Giving yourself 10–15 extra minutes in the morning of the ACT or SAT can also allow you to eat a nutritious breakfast (not just a Starbucks Frappuccino) and get yourself psyched for the upcoming standardized test.
I hope these five little-known tips help in your preparation for the next SAT or ACT. Remember, anything is bound to happen on test day, so just be alert and ready for any obstacle so you can overcome it and ace the test!
So, were you surprised by these standardized test tips? Were you warned about puking students and freezing classrooms?!?! Or do you have any tips to add? Leave a comment or let us know on Twitter.
