With 2020 just around the corner, now is the perfect time of year to start thinking about how to be the best version of yourself. If you happen to be a high school student who’s taking the ACT or SAT next year, it can be a good idea to set some resolutions relating to your test-taking. New Year’s resolutions for test-takers in 2020 include registering for exams as soon as possible, getting a head start on your study plan, and honestly analyzing your strengths and weaknesses.
What do resolutions for the ACT or SAT look like? Keep reading to learn four New Year’s resolutions for ACT/SAT test-takers.
New Year’s resolution #1 for ACT/SAT test-takers: register for your exam as soon as possible
It can pay off in several ways to register for the ACT and/or SAT as soon as possible. You’re more likely to get your preferred testing location the sooner you sign up for your test. You can also incur late fees if you fail to sign up for your exam before the specified registration deadline. Arguably most important to note, the sooner you know when you’re taking your exam, the sooner you can get started implementing your study plan.
[RELATED: 4 New Year’s Resolutions for Students]
New Year’s resolution #2 for ACT/SAT test-takers: get a head start on your study plan
Regardless of when you’re taking your 2020 ACT or SAT, it never hurts to get a head start on studying. In fact, beginning your studies early on can help you more quickly identify your strengths and weaknesses so you know what you should focus on most during the time leading up to your exam.
You should have already gained a foundation of knowledge for these exams through your classwork. A great place to start studying is by taking a practice test. Resources to note when preparing for the ACT or SAT may also include:
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The College Board, which authors the SAT.
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ACT.org, which authors the ACT.
New Year’s resolution #3 for ACT/SAT test-takers: create a study schedule and stick to it
When gearing up for ACT/SAT test prep, establish a regular study schedule—perhaps on the same evening every week—that works for you. Use an electronic or paper calendar or planner to block out your scheduled study time at the start of each week, so you know what to expect. This way, you can hold yourself accountable for study sessions.
In addition, eliminate all distractions from your study space. If you know you’re likely to get distracted if you have your phone nearby or when studying in a certain area of your home, make adjustments to your plan to avoid anything that might prevent productivity.
[RELATED: The Importance of Self Reflection: How to End the Year on a Positive Note]
New Year’s resolution #4 for ACT/SAT test-takers: identify your strengths and weaknesses
Making a list of your strengths and weaknesses may help you keep track of the topics you need to spend extra time on and which ones you can afford to review less often. This will help you both stay organized and optimize your study time. A great way to identify this is through practice tests. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t do as well as you expected on any given section—everyone has their strong and weak areas. The key is being aware of them so you can use your strengths to your advantage and score your best come test day.
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