Your Final SAT/ACT Countdown Plan
Whether your test is in a few days or tomorrow, here’s how to maximize your results, minimize stress, and walk in confident.
3-5 Days Before
- Light Review Only: Skim your notes, review key formulas, vocab, and strategies. Don’t try to learn new material.
- Take a Practice Section: Do a timed section (not a full test) to stay sharp. Review your mistakes, but don’t dwell on them.
- Refine Your Routine: Wake up and go to sleep at the same time you plan for test day.
- Prep Your Materials: Print your ticket, find your photo ID, gather pencils, calculator, snacks, and a water bottle.
- Know Your Route: Double-check your test center location and how you’ll get there. Plan for traffic or delays.
1 Day Before
- Don’t Cram: Put away the books by early evening. Trust your prep!
- Pack Your Bag: Ticket, ID, pencils, calculator (with fresh batteries), snacks, water, mask (if required), and a sweater.
- Eat Well & Hydrate: Have a balanced dinner and drink water, but don’t overdo caffeine or sugar.
- Relax & Unwind: Watch a show, take a walk, listen to music. Try not to talk about the test.
- Go to Bed Early: Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep. Set two alarms!
Morning Of
- Eat Breakfast: Something with protein and carbs (e.g., eggs & toast, yogurt & fruit).
- Dress Comfortably: Wear layers in case the room is cold or hot.
- Arrive Early: Give yourself plenty of time to check in and get settled.
- Stay Calm: Breathe deeply. Remind yourself you’re prepared.
During the Test
- Use Your Strategies: Skip hard questions, mark and return, use process of elimination.
- Watch the Clock: Don’t obsess, but check your pacing every few questions.
- Breaks: Eat a snack, stretch, relax your mind.
- Stay Positive: If you get stuck, move on. Every question is a fresh start.
Dealing With Test Anxiety
- Prepare, Don’t Cram: Trust your preparation. Last-minute cramming increases anxiety and rarely helps.
- Practice Deep Breathing: Inhale slowly for 4 seconds, hold for 4, exhale for 6. Repeat to calm your mind and body.
- Stay Active: Light exercise or a short walk the day before and morning of the test can reduce stress.
- Keep Perspective: Remember, your test score is only one part of your journey. You are more than a number.
- Positive Self-Talk: Remind yourself of your hard work and progress. Try a morale-boosting mantra like “I can do this.”
- Use Breaks Wisely: During test breaks, do a quick breathing exercise, stretch, or squeeze a stress ball.
- Move On From Tough Questions: If you get stuck, skip the question and return later. Don’t let one question shake your confidence.
- Lean on Your Support System: Talk to a friend, parent, or tutor for encouragement before test day.
Still feeling anxious?
More Anxiety Tips
Test Day Checklist: Don't Forget!
Top Mistakes to Avoid
- Not reading directions or questions carefully: Rushing can lead to simple mistakes, especially in math and reading sections. Always double-check what the question is really asking.
Tip: Underline or circle key words in the question. - Leaving answers blank: There is no penalty for guessing on the SAT or ACT! Always fill in every bubble, even if you’re unsure.
- Mismanaging your time: Spending too long on one question can hurt your score. Move on and come back if you have time.
- Forgetting to review your answers: If you finish a section early, use the time to double-check your work and catch careless errors.
- Ignoring grammar rules: Watch out for common issues like subject-verb agreement, punctuation, and idioms in the Writing/English section.
Tip: Review the most commonly missed grammar rules before test day. - Solving for the wrong value in math: Double-check what the question is asking before you start your calculations.
Tip: Box or underline what you need to find. - Relying on gut instinct instead of strategy: Use process of elimination, look for context clues, and don’t just guess randomly, especially in reading and science sections.
- Not bringing the right materials: Don’t forget your admission ticket, photo ID, pencils, calculator, snacks, and water.
- Staying up late cramming: A tired brain makes more mistakes. Get a full night’s sleep before the test.
- Letting anxiety take over: If you feel overwhelmed, pause, take a deep breath, and refocus. You’ve got this!
FAQs: Last-Minute SAT/ACT Prep
Should I take a full practice test the day before?
No. It’s better to do a light review or a single section. Save your energy for test day.
What if I feel nervous?
That’s normal! Use deep breathing, positive self-talk, and focus on your preparation. Check out our Test Anxiety tips above.
What time should I arrive at the test center?
Arrive at least 30 minutes early to allow time for check-in and to find your room. Being early helps you feel calm and prepared.
Can I bring snacks and water?
Yes, but you can only eat during breaks. Bring snacks that are easy to eat and not messy.
What if I finish a section early?
Use the time to double-check your answers, but don’t change answers unless you’re sure.
Can I use any calculator?
No, only approved calculators are allowed. Double-check the official SAT or ACT calculator policy and bring extra batteries.
What if I don’t know the answer to a question?
Use process of elimination to rule out wrong answers, then make your best guess. There’s no penalty for guessing!
What should I do if I feel stuck during the test?
Take a deep breath, skip the question, and come back if you have time. Don’t let one tough question throw you off.
Should I take both the SAT and ACT?
It’s not required. Most colleges accept either test. Choose the one that fits your strengths or try a practice test for each and see which feels better for you.
Need Last-Minute Help?
Reach out to your tutor or call us for a quick strategy session. We’re here to help you finish strong!
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