Scrap Paper Templates

[W]

The Timing Lab and class handout showed a recommended scrap paper template to be used for the Verbal and Quant sections. Are you permitted to you create these templates as soon as you sit down for test, but BEFORE the test actually begins? If so, won't the proctor think it is odd that you are writing down materials on the paper prior to the beginning of the test? I would just find it surprising that the proctors would let you do this.

[StaceyKoprince]

You technically can't write anything down before the test begins. During the time when you're supposed to be selecting schools, etc, you're not supposed to be writing and, if they notice, they'll tell you to stop. They'll probably notice; they watch pretty carefully. You are also not allowed to write during the breaks. (In fact, if you take the break, you are required to leave the room.)

The part where you're doing the little tutorial (here's how to select the answer to a question, here's how to confirm, etc.) is unclear - I'm not sure whether you're officially not allowed to write during that section or not. So you can try and see if they stop you.

The best time to put down those templates is after you're done with your essays but before the time has run out. Train yourself to do each essay in 27 min instead of 30 and you have an extra 6 minutes to set up your scrap paper. It's totally legal then because you're allowed to write whatever you want while the test is actually going on.

I heard a report recently from someone who said that the proctor took his/her scrap paper after the essays and gave him/her a new booklet (without asking). If this happens, tell them you want to keep your original one. I don't know whether they'll comply, but it can't hurt to ask.