What to Expect on Test Day

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[edit section] What to Expect on Test Day

We've talked a bit about the SAT and why you should take it seriously. Many students want to know what the SAT is actually like though, and what they can expect on the day of testing. We're here to break down the testing time and format for you as well as give you a few tips for what to do on and leading up to SAT testing.

On test day, you will enter your pre-designated testing center with your registration information in hand along with two forms of ID. You should be prepared to wait in line; typical wait times are around ten minutes. Once you have registered for the test and are assigned to a room, you will enter the room and the proctor will seat you. You will sit and wait for other students to arrive before the test begins. Once the test begins, the proctor will read instructions that have been given to her by the College Board. She will then hand out the necessary testing materials and assure that students have pencils in hand. She may also check calculators to ensure that they meet the College Board requirements.

After all of these formalities are complete, she will ask you to bubble in personal information and get ready to begin the test. The testing breakdown is as follows:

Section One: Essay - 25 Minutes

Sections Two - Nine: Math, Reading, or Writing - 20 or 25 Minutes

Section Ten: Writing - 10 Minutes

As you can see, the testing format and length is highly variable! The only sure thing is that you will have the essay first and the short writing section last. In addition, there will be breaks and pauses within the test at the discretion of the proctor and the direction of the College Board.

During the test, you obviously cannot talk, solicit help from others, look at another reference, or try to gain any sort of unfair advantage. You also may not use your cell phone or any other communication device.

After the test is over, the proctor will collect materials and will dismiss you. It's as simple as that.

Here are a few simple tips about what to do (and not to do) on test day. Follow these and you should do well!

DO get a good sleep the night before, preferably at least eight hours in length. Eat a hearty, large meal rich in carbs and starches. DO NOT stay up late cramming for the test or playing video games, and avoid eating too much protein (especially meats like turkey and chicken) the night before the test - it may make you tired the next day.

DO bring a graphing calculator, three or more pencils, and a timing watch (that does not beep) to the test. DO NOT bring scratch paper, things that make noise, headphones, MP3 players, or the like as they are not allowed.

DO turn off your cell phone before you arrive at the test center. DO NOT try to text message during the test.

DO watch the time during the test and feel free to ask the proctor about the time, including how much time is remaining in the section. DO NOT ask the proctor to clarify or answer questions about the test itself.