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

Even though the ISEE and SSAT are long tests, the time can fly by! Maybe you struggle with running out of time on the test, or maybe you feel the pressure of the clock and rush through. Either way, here a few simple tips to help yourself manage your time on the test.

1. Don’t spend the same amount of time on every question

It might be tempting to break the sections down into minutes, then spend the same amount of time on each question in the section. However, some of the questions are really easy, and some of them are quite hard (or will just take a long time to do!). Answer the easy questions first, as quickly as possible, to allow yourself more time for the hard ones.

2. Skip hard questions

Your focus for each section of the test should be getting as many questions right as possible. (Remember, each question is worth the same amount, regardless of its difficulty.) The best way to achieve this is to answer the questions that are easier first, saving the hard questions for the end of the section.

3. Watch the clock!

There will always be a clock visible in the room where you take your test. The test proctor will write the time that each section begins and ends on the board so you can track your progress on the clock. Try practicing with a clock at home to get used to this set-up!

4. Take shortcuts whenever you can

In school, it’s important to write very neatly, show every step, and work through problems the long way. On the ISEE and SSAT, however, no one is going to see your work except you! Use shortcuts like estimating, working backwards from the answer choices, and plugging in numbers to save yourself time on the math section.

5. Practice your time management skills

If you struggle with time management, focus on incorporating timed practice into your test prep sessions. Take timed test sections regularly until you know what it feels like to complete a section before the time runs out. Getting used to it is half the battle, and practicing time management will ease your stress level on test day!