The Day Before the ACT

The day before the test, you generally want to be relaxing. Sure, take some time to study lightly - review flashcards or lessons - but as a rule of thumb, don't study more than 2 hours. Instead, spend some time doing relaxing activities (think long bath, not intense video games).

Also, make sure you get enough sleep, at least 7 hours but no more than 9 hours. This might mean getting to bed one to two hours earlier than normal, and letting your natural sleep cycle take over.

Set your alarm clock for two hours before the test time. If you want, set another backup clock for 5 minutes later. Your brain takes up to two hours to fully wake up, and you don't want to be starting the test on a cold engine.

Do some jumping jacks to get the blood flowing, and then take a shower to be clean for the test. Eat a full breakfast high in complex carbs like whole grain cereal or toast and low in sugars like maple syrup. Follow your normal coffee routine -- if you don't drink it most days, then you shouldn't today either.

Today's not the day for fashion. Wear practical clothing in layers, so you can take off layers if the room is too warm, or put more on if it's cold. A good set is t-shirt, pajama pants or jeans, sneakers, and a sweatshirt.

What you need: your printed admissions ticket, multiple number 2 pencils, an raser, your photo ID, a calculator, a watch, a bottle of water, and a snack (I recommend a granola bar or trail mix). Put everything in a bag or your backpack the day before, so you have zero surprises the morning of the test.

If time allows before your test, try two problems from each section just to get used to doing problems. Get those juices flowing.

Get there early -- aim to be there at least fifteen minutes earlier than the recommended time. You don't want the panic that comes with getting to your test late. Use Google Maps to find directions the day before, and if you're not driving yourself, make sure you and your driver (often a parent) coordinate on your schedule.

When you get to the test center, you might see your friends. Say hello, but don't linger to chat. Often you'll make each other more nervous. Instead, say "I'd really like to focus now, let's chat after the test?" It might be weird in the moment, but you don't need distractions.

About halfway through, even if you don't feel the need to, take a break to use the restroom, drink a sip of water, and down your snack. You'll thank yourself later.