You’ve studied for the SAT® and prepared to get your best score. In addition to test strategies, it also matters what you bring to the SAT® Test and how you handle yourself on test day.
Master Your Preparation
Preparing for test day starts long before the night before the test. Have you taken practice tests? Do you understand the curriculum and strategies to help you increase your score?
Even if you bring the right things to the test, it won’t help if you don’t bring the preparation that’s essential to doing your best on the test.
The Morning of the Test
Rise and shine. It’s testing time! Don’t roll out of bed five minutes before you need to leave. Instead, wake up by 6:30 so you can have an easy morning as you prepare for the test.
Before you eat breakfast, head outside and run a few 30-yard dashes. Not just to impress your neighbors--to get your body moving and your brain working. You want to be the most alert student at the test, firing endorphins, yawn-free.
Wear clothes that allow for mobility. Be comfortable, but also not so relaxed that you feel like it’s nap time! It’s Hammer Time! This is also a good idea to wear layers in case the room is too hot or cold—the last thing you need is a temperature distraction.
Eat an Energizing Breakfast
Carbs fuel your muscles. Protein fuels your brain. That’s why it’s important to eat a protein-heavy breakfast before the SAT® Test. Pick oatmeal over cereal and eggs over pancakes. Or make a protein drink that fuels and energizes your body.
Even more important, don’t neglect breakfast altogether! Your brain and body need nourishment to endure the mental marathon ahead.
Then get on your way and get to the test site by 7:45 so you can get settled.
What to Bring to the ACT® Test
Besides bringing your most energetic, prepared self, here are a few items you won’t want to forget!
Your SAT® Test Ticket and Photo ID 
These are essential so you can actually take the test. Don’t forget to print out your SAT® ticket. Yes, it might seem a bit old school, but no digital tickets are allowed. Grab the paper copy, especially because your scores can be delayed if you don’t bring it.
Your photo ID needs to be a valid physical ID issued by the government or by your school. It needs to have your picture and your full legal name, exactly as they appear on your ticket. Don’t assume you have it with you. Double-check before you leave your house.
Approved Testing Device (unless using a loaner requested from the SAT® during registration)
Make sure your laptop/tablet/iPad/Chromebook is charged and on the list of approved devices. Be sure to download Bluebook from the College Board website at bluebook.app.collegeboard.org several days before your test date, and practice using Bluebook to make sure everything works correctly. You may also bring a power cord/charger, though access to an outlet is not guaranteed. An external mouse and mousepad are also allowed. You cannot bring any additional electronic equipment, watches, earbuds, etc. unless specifically approved as testing accommodations.
Pens or Pencils
You'll be given scratch paper at the test. So bring your lucky pen or pencil to make the most of this opportunity.
If not using the in-test Desmos Calculator, Two Calculators (or Backup Batteries)
Grab a calculator or two for the Math section of the test. But first, make sure the non-CAS (computer algebra system) calculator you choose is permitted. The SAT® Test has an official list of calculators that they allow for the test.
Also, either bring a backup calculator or grab a set of batteries (check which kind you need) for your calculator. You don’t want to be distracted because your calculator stops working halfway through the test. Preparation is the best option.
A Protein Bar or Drink
Repeat it with me: Carbs fuel your muscles, and protein fuels your brain. Don’t waste your valuable ten-minute break after Math with Pop-Tarts or a sugar-filled treat. Instead, use it to fuel your brain and give yourself a boost with a protein bar or protein drink for the Reading and Science sections. Save the sugar for a post-test reward.
Make the Most of Your Break
Remember, the ten-minute break can be a turning point for your brain. The three Rs are your friend for the break: Restroom, Run, Restoration.
Choose a far-away restroom (preferably next to the gym) and briskly walk or run there at the beginning of your break. Then go into the gym or find an empty hallway and get in a few sprints during your ten minutes. This physical activity is great for your brain. Eat your protein bar or drink on your way back to the test room. Social risk, perhaps, but you'll be prepared to Hammer the rest of the SAT® Test.
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Preparation matters. But it’s about more than preparing for the content on the SAT® Test. Knowing what to bring to the SAT® Test is one more step on the path to success. Do what you can to help yourself in the small ways, from eating a good breakfast and waking up early to making the most of your break.
After all, Test Day is Pay Day.
