
Top 4 Test Day Mistakes for SAT/ACT – and How to Avoid Them
- Posted by Kathleen
- Categories College Admissions, High School, SAT & ACT
- Date July 16, 2025
You’ve studied. You’ve practiced. But test day still brings its own set of challenges. Here are some of the most common mistakes students make the day of the test, and how to steer clear of them.
Mistake #1: Not sleeping enough or eating well.
Brain fuel matters. Rest and a balanced breakfast are part of test prep too.
Mistake #2: Rushing at the beginning.
Take a deep breath and ground yourself. Especially with the new adaptive SAT, those first sections matter.
Mistake #3: Losing track of time.
Test day nerves can speed things up or slow you down. Get familiar with how long each section feels. A watch (with no smart features) can be a lifesaver.
Mistake #4: Letting one hard question throw you off.
Don’t get stuck. Skip tough questions and come back if you have time. Every point counts equally.
Test day doesn’t have to be scary. At Mulholland Prep, we help students simulate the real thing so they go in ready: calm, focused, and confident.

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Kathleen is a manager at Mulholland Prep. Drawing on years of experience as an educator, she writes to provide accessible resources for students, parents, and other teachers.
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