Your Test-Taking Toolkit: 15 Essential Items to Pack for Exam Day

The HSAT is now online, but the need for a prepared "toolkit" is more important than ever. While you may not be packing a physical backpack to take to a school, "packing" for an online exam means preparing your digital and physical environment for success. A missing item from this new toolkit can be just as stressful as a forgotten pencil on a paper test.

As we cover in our "Night Before the Test" guide, getting these 15 essential items ready beforehand is the key to a calm, confident, and technically smooth test day at home.

Disclaimer: Online proctoring rules are very strict. Always check the official GoCPS website for the most current list of permitted items and technical requirements.

The Digital Essentials

  1. A Fully Charged, Plugged-In Laptop: Do not rely on battery power. This is the single most important physical item.

  2. A Stable Internet Connection: A wired Ethernet connection is strongly recommended over Wi-Fi to prevent dropouts.

  3. The Official Test Day Login/Link: Have this ready in a saved email or document so you aren't scrambling to find it.

  4. Pre-Installed Proctoring Software: The required software should be downloaded and tested days in advance to work out any bugs.

  5. A Tested Webcam and Microphone: These are your link to the proctor. Ensure they are working correctly.

Your Physical Workspace

  1. A Clean, Uncluttered Desk: The proctor will need to see your workspace. It should be completely clear of books, notes, and clutter.

  2. Approved Blank Scrap Paper: Check the rules for the specific number of sheets allowed (e.g., 3-5 pages). The proctor may ask to see them.

  3. Two Sharpened #2 Pencils: Even for an online test, you'll need these for your scrap paper. Have a backup.

  4. A High-Quality Eraser: For clean work on your scrap paper.

  5. A Comfortable, Upright Chair: You need to be able to sit with focus for over an hour.

Personal Preparation

  1. Comfortable, Layered Clothing: The "test center can be cold" rule still applies to your own home. Be comfortable.

  2. A Clear Water Bottle: Hydration is key for focus. Make sure it has no labels, as is common with proctoring rules.

  3. A Simple, Non-Smartwatch: Even with an on-screen timer, a simple watch can help you with your personal pacing strategy. Smartwatches are strictly forbidden.

  4. Your Login Credentials: Have your CPS Student ID and any other required login information written down on a sticky note next to your computer.

  5. A Calm, Focused Mindset: This is your most important tool. Before you log in, do a 2-minute breathing exercise from our mindfulness and stress-management guide.

The Full Dress Rehearsal

The best way to ensure your toolkit is complete is to use it. When you take a CPS HSAT Practice Test, simulate the full experience. Set up your computer and workspace with only these 15 items. This "dress rehearsal" will reveal any technical glitches or comfort issues, so you can solve them long before the real test day.