- Study Beforehand
See where your weaknesses are and learn what you don’t know. Get comfortable with the format of the test so you can be ready for the type of questions that they ask. There is an enormous range of test prep choices available, from personalized tutoring to free resources, available online or at the local library.
- Take Practice Tests
The more you practice, the better you will get at taking those long tests. Sitting for three plus hours is hard, so the weekend before the exam, make yourself go through a whole test. Please, however, remember to take breaks. Staying focused for hours at a time is like athletics, if you don’t practice, you won’t perform well.
- Know the ACT / SAT Test Location
If you are unfamiliar with the test location, take a trip there before the test. You don’t want to get lost on the way to the test and arrive late. This will help reduce any extra stress having to find your way on the day of the test.
- Prepare Required Items the Night Before
Prepare all of the items on the SAT or ACT test day checklist the night before so you’re not searching for them the morning of the test.
This means you’ll need to have your ID, admissions ticket, No. 2 pencils, eraser, calculator (if allowed), extra batteries, healthy snacks, and a water bottle ready to take to the test in the morning. Put everything together the night before. Minimal stress before the test will help boost your confidence and let you focus on what really matters.
- Go to Bed Early for Two Nights before the Test
Many times we are exhausted the day after we have stayed up too late. Make sure to get enough sleep for both nights as this will help your concentration and attention span.
- Get up Early on Test Day
Do not press the snooze button. Give yourself plenty of time to get ready. Grab all your stuff and breathe deeply if you start feeling anxious.
- Eat Protein for Breakfast
You will need to keep your stomach full and energy up for this long test. Consider having something healthy and filling with protein.
- Control Your Thoughts and Stay Focused
When you don’t know answers to questions it is easy to start accumulating negative thoughts. Stay positive and focused on the task at hand. You are not supposed to know all the answers, just do the best hat you can. It helps a lot of people to take deep breaths as it brings more oxygen into your body which helps keep you calm and focused.