How to Prepare for Standardized Tests: A Comprehensive (and Slightly Quirky) Guide

Sabia Kalam
Apr 29
3 min read

Let’s be honest: preparing for standardized tests can feel like preparing for battle—if that battle involved pencils, stress sweats, and irrational fears of math. But hey, take a breath. You’ve got this.

This isn’t going to be one of those dry guides filled with bullet points and doom. Nope. Let's check some actual steps you can take to feel less like a bundle of anxiety and more like someone who’s got a plan.

1. Get to Know the Beast

You wouldn’t show up to a blind date without Googling the person first, right? Same logic applies here. Know what you’re dealing with:

What’s on the test?
How long is it?
Is there a writing section? (cue dramatic sigh)
How’s it scored?

Pro tip: Take a practice test early on, just to get the lay of the land. You’re not supposed to ace it. You’re just figuring out where you’re starting.

2. Make a Study Plan That Doesn’t Make You Cry

No need to turn into a full-time test hermit. The key is consistency, not cramming.

Break it down like this:

Pick a test date (seriously, pick one)
Count how many weeks you have
Make a weekly plan that fits your life (school, work, Netflix binges—balance is key)

Try studying for 30–45 minutes a day, most days. That’s it. You don’t need five hours of prep and a nervous breakdown.

Human moment: Give yourself permission to rest. One “off” day doesn’t mean you’ve failed. You're a person, not a machine.

3. Use the Tools That Actually Work for You

Everyone’s got that friend who swears by flashcards or that app that changed their life. Cool. But what works for them might not be your thing—and that’s okay.

Here’s what you can try:

Practice tests (yes, they’re annoying, but so helpful)
YouTube tutorials for tricky topics
Study playlists (hello lo-fi beats)
Actual tutors or online prep if you want structured help

You don’t need all the tools. Just a few that make studying suck a little less.

4. Practice Like It’s Game Day

Nothing boosts confidence like doing the thing you're scared of—over and over—until it feels normal.

So take timed practice tests. Sit at a desk. Use a pencil. Eat the same snack you’ll bring on test day if that helps.

Most importantly: go over what you got wrong. That’s where the growth happens.

Reminder: Every mistake is just data. Not a failure. Not a personal flaw. Just helpful info.

5. Take Care of Your Human Self

Test prep isn’t just about your brain—it’s about your body, too.

Get enough sleep. (Yes, really.)
Move your body. A quick walk counts.
Don’t skip meals. Hungry brains don’t solve algebra.

And on the day of the test? Do whatever makes you feel good. Wear your lucky socks. Breathe. Talk to yourself like you would your best friend.

Because you deserve kindness—especially from yourself.

The Final Word (and Your Next Move)

Standardized tests are tough—but you’re tougher. You don’t have to be perfect. You just have to be prepared. And hey, if you’ve read this far, you’re already ahead of the game.