Important SHSAT Prep Tips Before the August 4, 2023 Test

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      The Specialized High Schools Admissions Test (SHSAT) is an exam administrating by the New York City Department of Education (NYCDOE) to determine admission to specialized high schools in New York City. The specialized high schools include renowned institutions such as Stuyvesant High School, Bronx High School of Science, Brooklyn Technical High School, and a few others.

The SHSAT exam is typically taken by eighth and ninth-grade students who are seeking admission to one of these specialized high schools for their high school education. The exam assesses students’ skills in English Language Arts (ELA) and Mathematics.

SHSAT Preparation Tips:

  • Review Your Notes: Quickly go over your summary notes, formula sheets (if allowed), and any last-minute review materials you have created. Focus on key concepts and formulas.
  • Gather Your Materials: Double-check that you have all the necessary materials required for the test, such as your admission ticket, identification, pencils, erasers, and a calculator (if allowed).
  • Review Previous Practice Tests: Go over the practice tests you’ve taken, paying close attention to the questions you got wrong. Understand why you made those mistakes and learn from them.
  • Time Yourself: During your final practice sessions, strictly adhere to the time limits for each section. This will help you get accustom to the time pressure and develop better time management skills.
  • Make a Formula Sheet: A formula sheet provides a quick and easy reference to important equations, formulas, and key concepts. Instead of flipping through textbooks or notes, you can access the necessary information efficiently.
  • Stay Relaxed: Test anxiety is common but try to stay as calm as possible. Engage in relaxation techniques, deep breathing exercises, or visualization to reduce stress.
  • Create a Cheat Sheet: Develop concise and organized summary notes for each subject or topic.
  • Get a Good Night’s Sleep: Make sure to get enough sleep the night before the test. Being well-rested will help you stay focused and alert during the exam.

Test Day Morning Tips:

  • Eat a Healthy Breakfast: Start your day with a nutritious breakfast to fuel your body and mind. Avoid heavy or unfamiliar foods that might cause discomfort.
  • Arrive Early: Plan your journey to the test center in advance and aim to arrive early. This will give you time to settle in, review any last-minute notes, and avoid unnecessary stress.
  • Bring Required Materials: Double-check that you have all the required materials, including your admission ticket, identification, pencils, erasers, and a calculator (if allowed).
  • Read Instructions Carefully: Before starting each section, read the instructions thoroughly. Understanding what is expected of you is essential for answering the questions correctly.
  • Pace Yourself: During the test, don’t get stuck on difficult questions. If you’re unsure about an answer, make an educated guess and move on. You can always return to it later if time allows.
  • Utilize All Available Time: If you finish a section before the time is up, use the remaining time to review your answers. Avoid rushing to finish early; mistakes can happen in haste.
  • Trust you’re Preparation: Have confidence in the effort you put into preparing for the SHSAT. Trust your abilities and don’t let any minor setbacks during the test shake your confidence.
  • Eliminate Wrong Choices: If you’re unsure about an answer, try to eliminate obviously incorrect choices to improve your chances of guessing correctly.

Remember that the SHSAT is just one part of your academic journey. Do your best, but also keep in mind that admissions decisions are based on various criteria. Stay positive, do your best, and trust in the preparation you’ve done. Good luck on the SHSAT exam!

As you embark on your SHSAT journey, remember that success is not solely measuring by the outcome of an exam. By following the tips above, you can increase your chances of getting into one of New York City’s specialized high schools. So, embrace this unique experience with enthusiasm and determination. May your passion for knowledge guide you to extraordinary heights, regardless of the outcome?

You can grade your SHSAT practice test through the Socrato online platform to get the insights of the test preparation detailed diagnostic.

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