The stressful experience that is the SAT varies from person to person. For some people it’s just like any other test and for others it’s a death wish that ruins the possibility of any normal sleep patterns for weeks.

AS for me, I envy those who walk into this test as if it doesn’t affect them in any way, shape, or form. Two days leading up to the test I wasn’t a person. I was a mass energy of stress encased by a body. I spent the majority of my junior year preparing for this test: I attended most Saturday Successes, I checked the SAT word of the day at least once a week, and I took nine practice tests. I felt prepared but once I entered the timeframe of two days before the test I was a mess, I felt so nervous and I don’t know why, exactly.

I tried to relax but actually was unable to until the moment I entered my testing site. At that point, it did really feel like any other test.

However, this is the only test where you will actually wish time went by slower. This isn’t a test where you can finish early and put your head down or stare at the clock ticking slowly. No, this test is fast. Although it’s spilt into 10 sections, each one is anywhere from 10-25 minutes, and it’s the quickest time limit I’ve ever encountered.

I will say, though, it was not what I was expecting. The time leading up to the test was more terrifying than the test itself.

The essay prompt was one I felt I could easily form a response about, the math portion was material I’ve been taught over the years, and the reading is something I’ve been taught since elementary school.

The best thing to do when taking the SAT is to relax and have a clear mind. Stressing isn’t going to lead to any better results.