Night before SAT: How to unwind and relax?

My SAT is coming up, and I want to make sure I'm well-rested and focused for it. What should I do on the night before the test to ensure I'm in a good mindset the next day?

It's definitely important to set yourself up for success by creating a calm and relaxing atmosphere on the night before the SAT. While everyone clears their head differently, here are some suggestions to help you unwind and ensure you're in a good mindset for test day:

1. Stick to your routine: Try not to disrupt your normal evening routine, as this can cause unnecessary stress. Eat a well-balanced dinner, maintain your usual bedtime, and engage in any relaxing activities you typically do before bed.

2. Practice light revision: If you feel the urge to review some material, keep it light and avoid cramming. Focus on going over key concepts, formulas, or test-taking strategies that you're already familiar with.

3. Prepare your materials: Lay out everything you'll need for the test (e.g., admission ticket, photo ID, pencils, calculator, snack) the night before to avoid any last-minute scrambling in the morning.

4. Engage in relaxation techniques: Consider trying deep-breathing exercises, meditation, or progressive muscle relaxation to help calm your nerves and clear your mind.

5. Avoid screens: Keep away from electronic devices at least one hour before bed, as the blue light from screens can negatively impact your ability to fall asleep.

6. Do something enjoyable: Spend some time doing a low-stress activity you enjoy, like reading a book, listening to calming music, or engaging in a creative hobby.

7. Exercise earlier in the day: Participate in some light exercise during the day (e.g., yoga, walking, swimming) to help release endorphins and reduce stress. However, avoid intense workouts close to bedtime as they can interfere with your sleep.

8. Get a good night's sleep: Ensure you get a full night's sleep – typically 9 hours for teenagers – to feel well-rested and alert the next day.

Everyone has their own way of preparing for a big event like the SAT, so just identify what works best for you and make sure to incorporate those strategies into your evening routine before the test. Good luck!