Cut your fingernails so you don’t waste time biting them; the same goes for
your cuticles. If you like, paint your nails a soothing color like a pastel green or a
blue that reminds you of the ocean.
Hair care is also very important. Even if you’re otherwise attired in your
oldest, floppiest sweats, go to the test with squeaky clean hair—it’ll make you
feel pulled together and competent. Plus, its brilliant shine might distract other
students and therefore increase your percentile score. Also bear in mind that the
month before the SAT is no time to start growing your hair out. The last thing
you want is to be constantly pushing your hair out of your eyes and cursing
yourself for ever aspiring to have Fabio locks.
KEEPING TRACK OF TIME
Wear a good watch. A darn good watch. (But not a smart watch.) In unfavorable
circumstances, there might not be a clock in the testing area. Even if there is, you
don’t want to keep looking up nervously at the clock and risk spraining your
neck.
Choose your watch carefully. Digital ones are preferable because in the heat
of the moment you might forget how to read an analog watch.* If you never
wear a watch, bring one to put on your desk. A small travel clock will do the
trick as well. Whatever kind you choose, make sure your timepiece doesn’t beep,