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There's that scene in the football movie "Any Given Sunday" when the anxious third-string quarterback would throw up before he starts to play. If you feel that way every time you are about to take a major test, it may be a good idea if you learn to relax. Doing so may just help you earn better scores. Good test prep for the SAT and ACT will help you eliminate test anxiety and do your best. The best way to combat anxiety is through confidence so you should start preparing for these important tests weeks in advance. Go through a test prep course for the SAT and ACT so that you can familiarize yourself with many possible questions that will come up in the tests, as well as the test formats and time limits. Practice, practice, and practice some more. Remember that fear of the unknown is all too common, but knowing what to expect can really boost your confidence. Good test prep will help you understand how the SAT and ACT are put together and whether you should answer every question in any particular order. You will learn how to pace yourself and why wearing a watch can make a big difference. You will also discover some good test-taking strategies that will help you understand what is effective on each test. Where should you guess and why? Some students prefer individual test prep with a tutor who specializes in teaching for the SAT and ACT. Other students will do better in a small class where they can learn from the test prep coach and gain experience in a group setting, similar to an actual test situation. Students who are motivated enough to work on their own may find that online test prep works for them. It is important to weigh the benefits of different kinds of test prep in order to find what works best for you. Be absolutely certain of the exam date and time, as well as the testing location. Additionally, prepare all the necessary items you might need for the test the night before, such as your IDs and other required paperwork, pens, and some snacks for breaks. Get to bed early, and to be sure you'll wake up on time the next day, have someone wake you up early. On the morning of your test, eat a full breakfast. The SAT and the ACT aren't exactly pop quizzes, and breakfast will help you get through it. At the start of the test, take a few deep breaths and relax. Count backward from 100 to 90 with your eyes closed. The knowledge that you've attended SAT and ACT tutoring and courses should give you the confidence you need so you can perform to the best of your abilities.
To find out more about test prep, the SAT and ACT or college planning, go to http://www.collegedirection.org to receive the free College Direction monthly newsletter. Susie Watts is a private college counselor and educational consultant and the founder of College Direction in Denver, Colorado. Susie provides test prep for the SAT and ACT as well as help with the college search, applications and essays, and college counseling throughout the college admission process.
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