Fiske’s Test-Day Tips

Information adapted from Fiske Nailing the New SAT

The night before you should relax—go to a movie, hang out with friends, or review what the test will be like. Do NOT do a last-minute cram session. Go to bed at the time you usually go to bed on a school night.

On the morning of the test, get up in time for breakfast, and leave the house with plenty of time to make it to the testing location a little before test time. If you don’t know where you’re going, make sure to use a map and find directions. Also, leave some time to find the correct room.

If you might get distracted when someone in the room has a cold, you may want to consider using ear plugs on test day. Try them out during a practice test to see if they help you focus. But make sure you can hear the proctor call time.

What to Bring to Your SAT or ACT Test

• Your admission ticket
• A photo ID
• Your calculator, with fresh batteries
• At least three No. 2 pencils, or extra lead if you use mechanical pencils—and make sure your pencil erasers work well
• A watch or stopwatch—make sure any alarms are turned off
• A snack to eat during one of the breaks