Test-Taking Strategies for Standardized Tests

Standardized tests like the SAT and ACT can feel overwhelming, but with the right strategies, students can approach test day with confidence. Whether you're just beginning your test prep journey or looking to boost your score, these proven techniques will help you perform at your best.

Universal Strategies for Any Standardized Test

Master Time Management

One of the biggest challenges students face is completing all questions within the allotted time. Practice with timed sections regularly to develop your pacing instincts. Wear a watch on test day (analog watches are typically allowed) so you can keep track without relying on a proctor's clock. If you find yourself spending too much time on a single question, mark it and move on—you can always return to it if time permits.

Read Instructions Carefully

While most standardized tests follow predictable formats, subtle variations in directions can trip up even well-prepared students. Take a few extra seconds to read each set of instructions thoroughly, especially in the math and science sections where question formats may vary. This small investment of time can prevent careless errors that cost valuable points.

Use the Process of Elimination

When you're unsure of an answer, eliminating wrong choices dramatically improves your odds. Cross out answers you know are incorrect directly in your test booklet, then make an educated guess from the remaining options. There's no penalty for guessing on either the SAT or ACT, so never leave a question blank.

Answer Every Question

This point deserves emphasis: both the SAT and ACT no longer penalize incorrect answers. Your raw score is based solely on the number of questions you answer correctly, which means an educated guess is always better than a blank response. In the final minutes of each section, if you haven't reached every question, quickly bubble in an answer for any you haven't completed.

Practice Under Real Conditions

Taking full-length practice tests under actual testing conditions is crucial for building stamina and familiarity. Set aside four hours, follow official timing guidelines, and minimize distractions. This helps you develop the mental endurance needed for test day and identifies areas where you need additional review.

Take Care of Yourself

Test preparation isn't just about academics. In the week leading up to the exam, prioritize sleep, maintain a healthy diet, and engage in regular physical activity. The night before, avoid cramming—your brain needs rest more than last-minute review. On test morning, eat a balanced breakfast with protein and complex carbohydrates to sustain your energy throughout the exam.

SAT-Specific Strategies

Leverage the Reading Section Structure

The SAT Reading section presents passages from literature, historical documents, science, and social studies. Each passage is followed by a set of questions that follow a somewhat sequential order—earlier questions often relate to earlier parts of the passage.

Annotate as you read by underlining key points and circling transitions. Some students prefer to skim the questions first to know what to look for, while others read the passage thoroughly before tackling questions. Experiment during practice to find what works best for you.

Command the Evidence-Based Questions

A unique feature of the SAT is question pairs where you first answer an interpretation question, then identify which lines from the passage support your answer. Approach these strategically: read both questions together before answering either one. Your answer to the "evidence" question should directly support your answer to the interpretation question, so if you're torn between two choices, the available evidence can help you decide.

Master the Math Section Format

The SAT divides math into two sections: one where calculators are not permitted and one where they are allowed. For the no-calculator section, focus on mental math skills, fraction manipulation, and recognizing patterns. These questions are designed to be solved efficiently without a calculator, so if your solution is becoming overly complicated, there's probably a simpler approach. When calculators are allowed, don't become over-reliant—sometimes working through a problem by hand is faster than inputting complex expressions.

Tackle Grid-In Questions Confidently

The SAT includes student-produced response questions where you fill in your own answers rather than choosing from multiple choices. Pay careful attention to the gridding rules: you can start in any column, fractions don't need to be reduced, and mixed numbers must be converted to improper fractions or decimals. Always double-check that you've bubbled your answer correctly on the answer sheet.

Approach the Essay Strategically (If Required)

While the SAT essay is now optional and many colleges don't require it, some schools still request scores. If you're taking it, remember that you're analyzing how an author builds an argument, not stating whether you agree or disagree. Structure your essay with a clear introduction, 2-3 body paragraphs examining specific rhetorical techniques, and a conclusion. Use specific examples from the passage to support your analysis.

ACT-Specific Strategies

Pace Yourself Through the English Section

The ACT English section moves quickly—75 questions in 45 minutes. Many questions test grammar rules and punctuation, so having these fundamentals memorized saves valuable time. For rhetorical skills questions asking about organization or style, trust your ear but verify with grammar rules. If a sentence sounds awkward, there's usually a clearer, more concise option available.

Navigate the Math Section Comprehensively

The ACT Math section covers a broader range of topics than the SAT, including more advanced concepts like matrices, logarithms, and trigonometry. You're allowed to use a calculator for the entire section, so bring a calculator you're comfortable with (graphing calculators are permitted and can be particularly helpful).

The questions progress roughly from easier to harder, so don't get bogged down on early questions—build momentum and save time for the challenging problems at the end.

Read Actively in the Reading Section

With only 35 minutes for four passages and 40 questions, the ACT Reading section demands efficient reading. Many successful test-takers spend about three minutes reading each passage and about six minutes answering questions. Develop active reading habits: note the main idea, the author's tone, and the passage structure. Some students prefer to tackle passages in a different order—starting with the topics they find most engaging to build confidence.

Conquer the Science Section

The ACT Science section can be intimidating, but remember: it's more about data interpretation and reasoning than pure scientific knowledge. Most answers can be found directly in the graphs, tables, and experimental descriptions provided. Focus on understanding trends, comparing data points, and identifying relationships between variables. In conflicting viewpoints passages, clearly distinguish each scientist's or student's position before attempting the questions.

Approach the Optional Writing Section

Like the SAT essay, the ACT writing test is optional but required by some colleges. You'll analyze multiple perspectives on a complex issue and present your own perspective. Take a few minutes to plan your essay before writing. Acknowledge and address the perspectives provided in the prompt, even if you ultimately disagree with them. Strong essays demonstrate sophisticated thinking by recognizing nuance and complexity in the issue.

Final Thoughts

Remember that standardized tests are just one component of your college application. While good scores can strengthen your application, they don't define your worth or potential. Approach your preparation with dedication and these strategic techniques, but also keep perspective—you're more than a test score.

If you're struggling with specific content areas or test anxiety, consider working with a tutor who can provide personalized strategies and support. With the right preparation and mindset, you can walk into test day ready to demonstrate your knowledge and skills. Good luck!