So the big day is right around the corner. You have studied as much as you can, practiced sitting still for almost four hours, and you are in focus-mode. Now it is time to take care of your body, keep your energy up and your brain functioning at its maximum level before the exam.
You will be nervous and anxious the night before the SAT, but try to relax! Read a good book or watch a movie before bed to keep your mind off of the SAT. Even read a good news article to help generate ideas for your essay. Try your best to get eight hours of sleep, but do wake up at least an hour before the test to give yourself and your brain enough time to wake up and get to the test with enough time so that you don’t feel stressed.
The night before the test, have a solid dinner full of protein. Studies show that eating fish can help improve memory and brain function, but if you are not a regular fish eater, stick to foods that you and your body are used to digesting. And don’t forget to drink lots of water.
Make sure to eat breakfast in the morning. Even if you usually skip breakfast and run out the door in the morning before school, make the extra effort to wake up early enough to have a healthy breakfast. You want to make sure you eat something with complex carbohydrates for lasting energy and protein to help you feel full throughout the test. Eggs with whole-wheat or multi-grain toast are great breakfast options. Even a bowl of oatmeal and fruit will help sustain you through the exam. And never underestimate the power of a banana! Bananas are known to help your brain function at its best by releasing energy slowly and helping you to stay alert (Bananas as Brain Food). Avoid greasy foods or foods high in fat that will make you feel sluggish. Also make sure to drink water, juice, or a sports drink. Remember to stay hydrated, but don’t over do it as you do not want your bodily functions to interrupt you during the test. If you are a coffee drinker, be careful not to over-caffeinate. Too much caffeine can heighten your anxiety and make you jittery which will not help your concentration levels.
And make sure to bring a protein bar or even a Snickers bar to snack on during your breaks. It will help you to maintain your energy and keep your blood-sugar levels even throughout the 3 hour and 45 minute long test!
And most importantly, breathe! You are going to do great- just relax, do your best, and enjoy the feeling of completing the SAT after all of the hard work you have put into it. Good luck!
