Your Game Plan 4 ACT or SAT Test Day

Test day is finally here—the moment you’ve been preparing for! While practice tests and study guides get most of the attention, how you approach the day before and the day of the exam can make a big difference. Here are some of my favorite reminders to help you walk into the test room calm, clear, and confident.

1. Rest is non-negotiable.
The night before, aim for a good night’s sleep—not just the night before the test, but the two or three nights leading up to it is ideal. Rested brains process information more clearly.

2. Dress in layers.
Testing rooms can be unpredictable—sometimes chilly, sometimes warm. Dressing in layers means you’ll be comfortable no matter the temperature.

3. Do a dry run.
If you’re testing in an unfamiliar location, google map it and allow extra time for traffic. That way, there are no surprises with directions or parking. On test day, plan to arrive 20 minutes early so you can settle in without rushing.

4. Double-check your materials.
Read—and reread—the list of what you need to bring. Don’t forget your admission ticket, your photo ID, pencils if you are doing the paper test, and an approved calculator. Put everything by the door or in your bag the night before so there’s no scrambling in the morning.

5. Eat smart.
Choose a breakfast that gives you steady energy without weighing you down. If a big breakfast makes you sluggish, keep it light. A banana, toast with nut butter, or eggs are all solid options. Be mindful of caffeine: if you don’t normally drink a double latte, test day isn’t the time to start.

6. Bring a small boost.
Hard candy (like mints or Jolly Ranchers) can help keep your blood sugar stable and give you a tiny lift of energy during breaks.

7. Sit where you can see the classroom clock or take a plain watch

You’ll want to pace yourself during testing to keep track of your time to ensure you answer each question. 

Exercise what centers you.
Everyone has their own way of calming nerves—it’s okay to use those techniques before the exam with light stretching or deep breathing. You can also use controlled breathing during the test to lessen your stress. 

8. Keep perspective.
Remember, this is one step in your college journey—not the whole story. Going in prepared and calm will help you perform your best, but the test does not define you.