Some Dos and Don’ts for Test Day

As someone who has taken both the SAT and ACT a couple of times, I can wholeheartedly say I wish I knew a few things before testing. It’s very stressful once you’re in the moment; luckily, I had my twin brother with me to get some jokes out of our system before the daunting tests began. Many kids find standardized tests nerve-wracking, but I have some tips to help you through it!

LESS “S” ON STRESS

  • DON’T psych yourself out; the importance of these tests should not hinder you. The test allows students to have plenty of chances to better themselves and a negative mindset only blocks the road to your success.

  • DO try to relieve some stress by talking to those around you before testing begins. Plenty of anxious kids surround you and making a new friend always helps put people at ease.

ON GRABBING GRUB

  • DON’T forget to bring a snack. Having your tummy rumble in the middle of testing is not the end of the world, but it doesn’t help your score when you start fantasizing about all the food you want to eat.

  • DO bring water. Staying hydrated leads to optimal brain functioning and overall a good habit to form.

FORGET-ME-NOTS

  • DON’T forget to turn off your phone. You don’t want to have someone send you a good luck text causing the invalidation of your scores.

  • DO make sure to have your ride sorted out before testing begins. One time I remembered in the middle of my test that I did not tell my mom when to pick me up. By the time testing ended and I told my mom I needed a ride, it took her about an hour and a half to pick me up. Don’t do as I did and get your ride sorted out!! Waiting an hour and a half after an already excruciatingly long test is no fun.

TOOLS OF THE TRADE

  • DON’T forget your number two pencils!! No one likes it when a kid doesn’t bring any pencils or brought a mechanical pencil wondering if the lead will work on the scantron.

  • DO bring a calculator. Although 2+2 may seem easy outside of the test, during the test you can never be too sure!  

Make sure to do your best and know that you can always fix your score!

Ashley Behi