Introduction

Exam day is finally here! After months of preparation, the last thing you want is to be caught off guard by something preventable. This comprehensive checklist ensures you're fully prepared for exam day success. From what to bring to stress management strategies, we've covered everything you need to know.

The Week Before the Exam

☐ Confirm Exam Details

• Know the exact date and time of your exam
• Know the location and room number
• Know how long it takes to get there
• Plan to arrive 15-20 minutes early

☐ Prepare Your Materials

• Gather required ID and admission ticket
• Prepare pencils (bring extras)
• Prepare erasers
• Prepare a watch or timer

☐ Light Review

• Review key dates and events
• Review major historical themes
• Don't cram or stress yourself out
• Focus on maintaining confidence

☐ Get Adequate Sleep

• Aim for 8 hours of sleep each night
• Maintain a regular sleep schedule
• Avoid staying up late studying

The Night Before the Exam

☐ Prepare Your Exam Kit

• Gather your ID and admission ticket
• Pack 2-3 sharpened pencils
• Pack erasers
• Pack a watch
• Pack a small snack (for after the exam)
• Pack water bottle

☐ Plan Your Route

• Map out your route to the testing center
• Account for traffic and parking
• Plan to arrive 15-20 minutes early

☐ Prepare Your Clothes

• Choose comfortable, appropriate clothing
• Wear layers (test centers can be cold)
• Avoid distracting or uncomfortable clothing

☐ Relax and Destress

• Do light exercise or stretching
• Spend time with friends or family
• Watch a movie or read something enjoyable
• Avoid studying or thinking about the exam

☐ Get Good Sleep

• Go to bed at a reasonable time
• Aim for 8 hours of sleep
• Avoid caffeine late in the day
• Create a calm, dark sleep environment

Exam Day Morning

☐ Wake Up Early

• Wake up at least 2 hours before the exam
• This gives you time to prepare without rushing

☐ Eat a Healthy Breakfast

• Eat a balanced breakfast with protein, carbs, and healthy fats
• Examples: eggs and toast, oatmeal with fruit, yogurt with granola
• Avoid heavy, greasy, or sugary foods
• Drink plenty of water

☐ Get Ready

• Take a shower or bath to feel refreshed
• Get dressed in comfortable, appropriate clothing
• Use the bathroom before leaving

☐ Double-Check Your Materials

• ID and admission ticket
• Pencils and erasers
• Watch
• Any other required materials

☐ Leave Early

• Leave with plenty of time to spare
• Account for traffic and parking
• Aim to arrive 15-20 minutes early

At the Testing Center

☐ Arrive Early

• Arrive 15-20 minutes before the exam starts
• This gives you time to settle in and calm your nerves

☐ Check In

• Present your ID and admission ticket
• Follow all check-in procedures
• Listen carefully to all instructions

☐ Find Your Seat

• Locate your assigned seat
• Get comfortable and settle in
• Take a few deep breaths

☐ Manage Your Mindset

• Take deep breaths to calm yourself
• Remind yourself of your preparation
• Visualize success
• Maintain a positive attitude

During the Exam

☐ Read Instructions Carefully

• Listen to all proctors' instructions
• Read all exam instructions carefully
• Ask for clarification if needed

☐ Manage Your Time

• Wear your watch and check it regularly
• Allocate time for each section
• Don't spend too much time on one question

☐ Stay Focused

• Concentrate on the exam
• Don't worry about other test-takers
• If your mind wanders, refocus

☐ Manage Stress

• Take deep breaths if you feel anxious
• Stretch if allowed
• Remember that some difficulty is normal

After the Exam

☐ Don't Stress About Your Performance

• You can't change your answers now
• Avoid discussing the exam with others
• Focus on moving forward

☐ Celebrate Your Effort

• You've completed months of preparation
• You've taken the exam
• Be proud of your effort

☐ Take Care of Yourself

• Eat a good meal
• Spend time with friends or family
• Do something you enjoy
• Get adequate rest

Stress Management Strategies

Deep Breathing: Take slow, deep breaths to calm your nervous system. Inhale for 4 counts, hold for 4, exhale for 4.

Progressive Muscle Relaxation: Tense and relax different muscle groups to reduce physical tension.

Positive Visualization: Imagine yourself succeeding on the exam. Visualize answering questions confidently.

Positive Self-Talk: Remind yourself: "I've prepared well," "I can do this," "I'll do my best."

Exercise: Light exercise or stretching can reduce anxiety and improve focus.

Conclusion

By following this comprehensive checklist, you'll be fully prepared for exam day success. Remember, you've already done the hard work through months of preparation. Exam day is simply the opportunity to show what you know. Stay calm, focused, and confident. After the exam, use our APUSH calculator to calculate your expected score based on your performance. Good luck!