Time Management
Learning Objectives
In this lesson, you will:
- Learn time allocation strategies for each test section
- Practice pacing techniques for standardized tests
- Develop skills for handling time pressure
- Build strategies for when you're running behind
Practice Quiz
Master these time management strategies. Click to reveal each answer.
Question 1: On the SAT Reading section, how much time should you spend on each passage (including questions)?
Answer: About 13 minutes per passage. With 5 passages and 65 minutes total, this allows time for review.
Strategy: Check your time after each passage. If you spend 15 minutes on one, you'll need to speed up on the next.
Question 2: You're stuck on a hard math question with 10 minutes left and 5 questions remaining. What should you do?
Answer: Skip it, mark it for review, and move on. Answer the remaining questions first, then return if time allows.
Strategy: Every question is worth the same points. Easy questions earn points faster than hard ones.
Question 3: What is the "two-pass" strategy for test sections?
Answer: First pass: Answer questions you know quickly. Second pass: Return to harder questions with remaining time.
Strategy: This ensures you get credit for everything you know before spending time on difficult questions.
Question 4: On the ACT Science section (40 questions in 35 minutes), how long should you spend per passage?
Answer: About 5 minutes per passage. There are 6-7 passages, each with 5-7 questions.
Strategy: ACT Science rewards quick data reading. Don't read every word - focus on graphs and key information.
Question 5: How can you tell if you're pacing correctly during the test?
Answer: Set time checkpoints. For example, on SAT Math, you should be at question 10 after 15 minutes. If behind, speed up.
Strategy: Know your checkpoints before test day. A quick glance at the clock keeps you on track.
Question 6: Why is it risky to spend too much time on the first few questions?
Answer: Time spent early reduces time for later questions. You might rush easy questions at the end or leave them blank.
Strategy: First questions aren't always easiest. If one seems hard, skip it - don't let it steal time from simpler questions later.
Question 7: What should you do in the last 2 minutes of a section?
Answer: Stop working on hard problems. Fill in any blank answers (no penalty for guessing on SAT/ACT). Review flagged questions only if you have an idea.
Strategy: Never leave a question blank. Even a random guess has a 25% chance of being correct.
Question 8: How does reading strategy affect time management on the Reading section?
Answer: Strategic reading (skimming for structure, reading questions first) saves time compared to careful reading of every word.
Strategy: Read for main ideas and structure. Return to specific lines only when questions require it.
Question 9: During practice, a student finishes sections with 10 minutes to spare. Is this good?
Answer: Not necessarily. If they're making careless errors, they should slow down. Extra time should be used for review.
Strategy: The goal isn't finishing fast - it's maximizing correct answers. Use all available time.
Question 10: What is "strategic guessing" and when should you use it?
Answer: Strategic guessing means making educated guesses by eliminating wrong answers. Use it when time is limited or you're uncertain.
Strategy: Eliminate 1-2 choices, then guess. A 50% chance (two options) is better than leaving it blank.
Next Steps
- Practice with a timer during all study sessions
- Calculate your personal pacing checkpoints
- Move on to review mistakes when ready