Tips for a Great ACT Test Day

The next ACT test date is fast approaching this Saturday. Read on for a few tips and resources (from ACTstudent.org) to help you get ready. Good luck on the test!

• Now is a good time to make sure that you know where you will be taking the test and how to get there. Check your ACT registration ticket for your test location and test start time.

• The night before the test, get everything together that you will need to take with you, including several sharpened No. 2 pencils with erasers, a permitted calculator and back-up calculator with new batteries, a snack and drink, a watch, your admission ticket, an acceptable photo i.d., and a light jacket. Here is ACTstudent.org's list of what you should bring (and what to leave at home).

• There are strict guidelines here regarding calculator use during the test. There are also strict guidelines here regarding what types of calculators are permitted during the test. Read these guidelines to ensure that your calculator is permitted and that you use it in accordance with test rules.

• You must bring an acceptable photo i.d. and your printed admission ticket to the test site. Read here for examples of acceptable forms of identification.

• The night before the test, try to relax and get a good night’s sleep. The night before the test is not a good time to try to study or cram one last time. Instead, take the night to clear your head and rejuvenate before the big day.

• Set an alarm and a back-up alarm that will wake you with sufficient time to get ready and travel to the test site. Ask a parent to make sure you are awake on time, as well.

• You will not be allowed to test if you are late. Make sure you arrive at the test site at least 15 minutes early to allow time to check in.

• Eat a healthy breakfast before the test and bring a snack and drink with you to eat during the break. Being hungry during the exam is a good way to lose concentration.

• Finally, relax, focus, and do your best!


Here are a few additional tips from ACTstudent.org that might be helpful:

• Test Day Tips;

• A Test Day Checklist.

• Do not engage in any Prohibited Behavior on test day.

• Some General Test Taking Tips.

If you would like help preparing for the next ACT and/ or SAT, we have excellent tutors for both tests. Email us for more information at Brainiac@BrainiacTutoring.com.