How to take the SAT/ACT
How I did it:
First off, I decided to take the ACT, but this really applies to any large stardardized test, I think. A little more than a month before the actual testing date, I bought my ticket online (actstudent.org). It doesn't really matter when you buy the ticket, but it's best to do it before the deadline to avoid fees and to ensure yourself a seat in the site you wanna test at.The day after, I bought a study guide for the test. Yeah, it's expensive and most people say it's needless. If you're more the type to study online (for probably free), then do it! Me, I ended up guying The Princeton Review's guide for the ACT, which was more than helpful. They had a good stance on the test, neither inflating or deflating it, just telling it how it is. It even comes with two practice tests. (Though I will say that both tests had their errors.)
And, gasp, I actually studied the book. I ended up using every page of that thing, haha. This isn't needed for everyone-- I'm just kind of hopeless. The week before my test, I set aside some time every day to solidify what I knew. Then it was testing day.
The ACT requires these things on testing day (usually):
• Show up at or before 8:00am to take your test
• Bring your ACT ticket (printed from the website)
• Bring one or more #2 non-mechanical pencils
• If preferred, bring a non-prohibited calculator
At my site, you were not allowed to use your cell phone or any communication devices in the building during testing time, not even in the bathroom. It's okay if you have it, just turn it off. We were directed to the cafeteria of the high school to wait until testing time. Test places were categorized by test type (with or without writing) and last name. Eventually you ended up there.
Then it's just test time. The ACT tests are always, always English, Math, Reading, Science (and then Writing if you chose it). I did choose writing, and I gotta say, I can't finish those essays. I really can't. Not in a half hour. My suggestion: write fast.
After that, you're free! It usually lasts about 4-5 hours total. It takes 2-3 weeks for the results to appear online, and 4-6 weeks for you test results to be mailed to you. So yay, it's done!
Lessons & tips:
1. Get good sleep. I only slept about five hours, and near the fourth test I was feeling pretty bleary-eyed. I think I would have had more concentration if I'd been more awake.
2. Eat breakfast. I know, "duh". I ate a good breakfast, I think it helped. Studies prove how effective it is and besides, no one wants to deal with hunger pains for 4-5 hours, ew.
3. Sharpen your pencils. If my room had a sharpener, I couldn't find it. My good pencil was blunt by the essay, so it just made it that less legible. Sigh. Bring two, and use one for multiple choice and one for the essay.
And lastly,
4. Don't stress out. This test isn't going to make or break you. You can always retake it, and no one in the classroom performs the same. Just do your best and work efficiently without cramping your style. You'll be surprised at how well you do.
Resources:
• Cracking the ACT, 2009 Edition by The Princeton Review
• Supportive friends and family, who were quiet when I did practice tests, and took me out for breakfast on test day ♥
• Good music to help the studying go by faster ;D
