Test day checklist

You did the studying — now don't let logistics get in the way. A little preparation the night before, the right things in your bag, and a calm morning let you walk in focused on the test itself. Here's your checklist.

The night before

Lay out everything you need so the morning is stress-free.
Know your test center and how you'll get there, and set an alarm (or two).
Sleep — a rested brain beats a few extra hours of cramming.

What to bring

Your printed admission ticket and an acceptable photo ID.
An approved calculator with fresh or spare batteries, and several No. 2 pencils.
A watch (without alarms), plus water and a snack for the breaks.

The morning of

Eat a real breakfast — protein helps you focus longer.
Dress in layers so you're comfortable whatever the room temperature.
Arrive early, and know your testing site's phone and device rules.

During the test

Pace yourself within each section and keep moving — don't get stuck.
Use the breaks to eat, drink, and reset your focus.
Breathe, and don't leave questions blank when there's no penalty for guessing.

Pack the night before, then sleep

The small logistics are what trip people up: a forgotten ID, a dead calculator, a too-late start. Lay out your ticket, ID, an approved calculator, pencils, and a snack the night before, know your route, and get real sleep. Then you can spend your energy on the test, not the scramble.

Keep going: beat test anxiety, prepare for the SAT, or the ACT.

Test day checklist

The night before

What to bring

The morning of

During the test

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Test day checklist

The night before

What to bring

The morning of

During the test