5 Tips for Managing Your Time on the ISEE & SSAT!

Even though the ISEE and SSAT are lengthy tests, the time can fly by! Whether you frequently run out of time or start to rush through when you feel the pressure of the timer, we’re here to help! Below are a few simple tips to help you manage your time:

1. Don’t spend too much time on difficult questions.

Your goal is to answer as many questions correctly as possible, and because each question is worth the same amount of points, you don’t want to waste valuable time on the hard questions. Answer all the easier questions first, and return to the harder questions at the end with any spare time you may have.

2. Watch the timer (or the clock)!

Whether you’re taking the test on paper or online, there will always be a timing resource available for you to reference. Keep an eye on the time to make sure you’re on track to complete the entire section.  When you take practice tests, they should be timed, so that you can get used to this element of the test! 

3. Take shortcuts when possible.

When solving problems in school, it’s important to show every step and work through problems the long way. But on the ISEE and SSAT, the only person who will see your work is you! On the math section, you can use strategies like guessing, estimating, working backwards from the answer choices, and plugging in numbers to save yourself time. 

4. Save a couple minutes at the end for review.

At the end of each section, make sure you leave yourself enough time to review any questions you left blank. If you still don’t know the answer, make your best, educated guess.

5. Practice time management regularly.

The best way to improve your time management is to take timed practice tests. Take timed tests (or test sections) until you’re consistently completing them before the time runs out. Getting used to the time limitation is half the battle with the ISEE and SSAT. Mastering time management will ease your stress level on test day and ensure that you maximize your score!