How to Deal with Anxiety Before SATs
Lindy Bower March 9, 2021
SATs can be difficult when you are anxious. Statistics show that test anxiety affects 10 – 40% of students. Statistics also show that the percentage rises when it comes to standardized tests.
Scott High School guidance counselor, Ms. Godby, gives students advice on how to deal with anxiety during SATs. Mrs. Godby proposes ideas to prepare for tests:
“Take ASVAB, take ACT practice, SAT practice, and use Khan Academy,” Mrs. Godby advises.
Not studying for the SATs can fuel test anxiety. Therefore, it is important to prepare beforehand.
The first way to prepare for the SAT is to study in advance. Don’t wait until the last minute to start studying. Just start studying a few months prior so you’ll be ready.
“Anything that you do not like, do that. Then test day anxiety will not be as big as a mountain,” Mrs. Godby adds.
Afterschool program, Project GOAL, gives students a chance to prepare for any test with one-on-one learning.
“Project GOAL provides students with opportunities to practice SAT-related skills through Khan Academy and tutoring opportunities,” Mrs. Vance comments.
It is also important to get familiar with the format of the SATs instead of walking into the test blindly.
The school offers SAT and ACT prep books that are available for student use. You can also find SAT practice tests online to print.
“Print tests, take them, and have your parents grade them,” Mrs. Godby notes.
Study as much as possible! But don’t study too hard. You need to come up for air occasionally. Don’t pressure yourself into studying too much every day. It is recommended that you study for ten to twenty hours per week over the course of two or three months.
If you stress about traveling long distances or being late, then be quick when registering for ACT tests. ACT tests are given in various locations across the state. If a local location, such as SWVCC or Logan High School, fills up quickly, you could end up driving all the way to Charleston or Huntington to take a test at 7:30 am.
“The SAT school day test is less stressful because you don’t have to worry about remembering to bring things like your ID, being in a room with people you don’t know, and travelling to an unfamiliar location,” Ms. Adkins says.
Always remember that you shouldn’t cram too much studying the night before the test. Make sure you use your time wisely and show up well-rested and ready to take the test. Take a deep breath and know what to expect.