Last month I wrote about how, done properly, SAT prep can bring happiness. I wasn’t finished…
Another factor that makes prep more satisfying is deep focus. If a student can reach a state of flow—become fully engaged in their studies—they are happiest. To encourage this, students should study in blocks. A Harvard study found that 15 minutes of block study is optimal for retention. Students should not study longer than 2 hours before taking a break. While studying, students should be free of distractions. Timed drills on material slightly above the student’s ability is ideal.
Outside of studies, students should exercise, which improves mood and cognition. Activity also reduces anxiety, improves memory and sleep, increases focus, and boosts mood. 20 minutes of walking daily, lifting weights, playing sports, or any light cardio before studying improves cognition.
While activity improves sleep, sleep improves both happiness and performance. A well-rested student will learn faster, recall more, think clearer, and be calmer. Sleep is part of your SAT curriculum.
Once a student gets to the test, calmness and confidence beats anxiety and panic. Students should expect some hard questions, accept that they will sometimes be uncertain, and set their focus on each question as a separate task rather than be focused on the score.
Having an attitude of gratitude on test day is also helpful. Research shows that gratitude lowers cortisol and improves emotional regulation. While it may be difficult to be grateful for a 134-minute test, students can be grateful for those who supported them in their test-prep quest. They can reflect on how much progress they have made and remember that they have an opportunity to perform well. Gratitude will help students shift their mind away from threat mode. Focus, exercise, sleep, and mindset help students have an optimal, happy performance.
Interested in finding out more about how we build happier, more confident students? Book a free consultation with me here: https://www.ivymasters.com/free-consultation