Taking the SOLs may be one of the hardest parts of being in school. It can be difficult to remember the material and figure out exactly what it is that you need to study. Not to mention that many have a SOL for not just one, but multiple classes.

If you feel nervous about taking your SOL test(s), or need a little more confidence, read the following:

1. Do NOT wait until the last minute to start preparing and studying for your SOL. You should give yourself enough time to study instead of cramming it all in the day before the test.
2. Instead of going through every single thing you’ve learned from this school year, figure out what you NEED to know. Ask your teacher what material it is that you will need to study for the test.
3. Create a study schedule and follow it. Prioritize your study time! Also, take breaks every once in a while to relax and recharge.
4. Study actively. Don’t just read your study guides or notes and stare at a textbook all night, instead move around while you study. This is a great time to pull out your spinner, or just walk around while you recite facts to yourself.
5. Attend after school study sessions with your teachers. (Some teachers even offer extra credit on the final exam if you attend!) Some teachers are even offering SOL remediation the week of SOLs.
6. Do NOT get distracted while studying. Really, that 230-day Snapchat streak can wait! Just try to focus on the task at hand.
7. Make sure you quiz yourself. Flashcards are a great idea to help memorize information.
8. Try being the teacher! Grab a few friends, siblings, or your parents and teach them what you’re studying. It might be helpful to explain what you’re studying to others.
9. Use your resources. Use websites such as: J-Lab, SOL Pass, and tons of other online websites for free practice questions and released SOL tests.
10. Take care of yourself! Make sure that you’re getting plenty of sleep each night, drinking lots of water, and eating healthy.
11. Do NOT stress yourself out about it. Yes, Virginia puts a lot of pressure on students with these big “Standardized of Learning” tests, but they are just numbers! They don’t define you as a person, or display what you’re capable of.

Take these suggestions and make sure you’re prepared when it’s time for you to sit down and take your SOL. Don’t forget to reward yourself afterwards! With all that preparation and studying, you deserve it.