How to Ace the ACT

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If you're wondering how you can best prepare yourself to pass the ACT with flying colors, you're not alone. Many students approaching the end of high school wonder how they can ace the ACT and position themselves to get into good colleges. Even students with excellent grades can get nervous when they think about taking the ACT, since your results can have a large impact on the success of your college applications. Don't worry, though; there are plenty of study tricks and tips you can use to do well on the test. Thorough preparation and a calm, confident demeanor are key attributes you will need if you want to ace the test.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Setting Your Study and Score Goals

1. Review the basic format to understand what you're studying for. The ACT is a multiple choice test with four sections: English, Mathematics, Reading, and Science. The English test consists of 75 questions designed to measure standard written and rhetorical skills. The mathematics test consists of 60 questions designed to measure mathematical skills typically learned before the start of grade 12. The reading test consists of 40 questions designed to measure reading comprehension skills. The science test consists of 40 questions designed to measure a student's ability to interpret, analyze, evaluate, reason, and problem-solve with the natural sciences.^[1]
   
   • The test sections vary in the amount of time you have to complete them. You have 45 minutes to complete the English section, but 60 minutes to complete the Math section and 35 minutes for both the Reading and Science sections.
   • You can also take an optional writing test, in which you will be required to write an essay. The writing test consists of one prompt, which you will have 30 minutes to write about. This section has no effect on your overall score.
2. Create a study plan to keep yourself focused. An actual study plan will help you stay more committed to your practice. To fulfill your plan, try to study at least 30 minutes each day, and plan to start studying 3 months in advance. Also, focus on the areas you struggle with most. While you need to practice all areas of the ACT in order to be truly ready, if you struggle with one subject more than the others, set aside a bit more time for that area than the others.^[2]
   
   • There is a direct relationship between how much you practice and how well you do on the test, so if you want to ace the ACT, you need to study consistently for several months.
3. Select a target score that you'd like to get on the ACT. Setting a target score will give you a specific goal to work towards. The test is scored on a scale from 1–36, with an average score falling at about 21. Say that you'd like to get a score of 24, which would put you at about the 75th percentile. Knowing this will help you figure out how much you need to improve when you take your first practice test.^[3]
   
   • Know how high your score needs to be in order to get accepted to your first-choice school. You can find this out by calling or emailing their admissions office. For example, many Ivy League universities don't admit students who score lower than a 34.
   • The whole purpose behind the ACT is to determine how ready you are for college, so any goal you create should be for the purpose of getting you into the college of your choice.
4. Take several practice tests so you're ready for the real thing. You can find practice tests through the ACT website, third party test prep sites, and in study-guide books. Choose practice tests specifically set up in the ACT format so that you can study while also becoming comfortable with the way the test is set up. This will prevent you from being nervous when you take the actual test, and will also help you understand how the test is timed and formatted.^[4]
   
   • Take your practice tests at roughly the same time of day you can expect to take the actual ACT at. Since the test is usually held fairly early, taking practice tests in the morning will help your brain develop the early morning thinking habits it needs.
   • You can purchase an official ACT prep tests on the official ACT website: http://www.actstudent.org/onlineprep/.
   • If you would rather not buy a test prep guide, the ACT website also offers free practice questions: http://www.actstudent.org/sampletest/.
   • The ACT publishes a printed, official prep guide that you can buy, as well. This prep guide includes five retired ACT tests and writing tests.

[Edit]Targeting Areas of Study

1. Brush up on your punctuation and noun-pronoun agreement rules. Essentially, you should brush up on the standard rules of English, especially as they apply to grammar. Try checking out a grammar guide like the Chicago style manual or Strunk and White from the library. Improve your knowledge of English grammar and mechanics is especially important if you tend to struggle in this area in general.^[5]
   
   • Vocabulary flashcards may do you some good, but you'd be better off studying the rules of English grammar than enlarging your vocabulary.
   • Make sure that you have a thorough understanding of how to use commas, colons, semi-colons, and dashes.
2. Memorize math formulas so you'll know them for the test. Algebraic variable manipulation and plane geometry are the most important subjects to study for the mathematics portion of the test. But, the ACT itself will not provide you with any formulas you need for answering the questions. To avoid floundering on the math portion, make sure that you memorize the most essential trigonometry, algebra, and geometry, formulas and understand how to apply them.^[6]
   
   • When you're taking practice tests, if you find that you're unfamiliar with a certain formula or equation (e.g., calculating the sine and cosine or using the quadratic equation), make sure to learn how to use those formulas.
   • Use flashcards to help you memorize formulas and brush up on your math knowledge in preparation for the test.
   • Note that calculus is not tested on the ACT. Trigonometry questions may appear, but there will only be a limited number of these. The hardest trigonometry questions usually deal with sine, cosine, and tangent graphs, as well as the unit circle.
3. Familiarize yourself with general scientific knowledge. The science section will require you to have some general science knowledge, but will mostly test your science reading comprehension. You'll be given a variety of charts and figures and experiment descriptions and expected to answer detailed questions about them. So, re-read a couple of your high school science textbooks and get used to thinking analytically about charts and sample experiments.^[7]
   
   • When practicing for this section, try answering data representation sections first before answering more complex questions in the practice test.
4. Practice writing draft essays to prepare for the writing section. Complete a draft essay once a week using writing prompts suggested by the official ACT study guides. This way, you'll be used to answering the types of prompts you'll see on the test. Keep yourself on a strict 30-minute timer. Before you write, analyze the prompt and decide what angle you want to take when answering.^[8]
   
   • A five-paragraph essay needs an introduction, three body paragraphs with supporting points, and a conclusion. Ideally, one of your body paragraphs will be a contradictory point with your rebuttal.
   • ACT essay prompts typically give a statement about a cultural or social issue, then provide 3 perspectives that respond to the issue. You'll be asked to think analytically and analyze the perspectives.

[Edit]Preparing Yourself and Your Supplies

1. Stimulate your mind and body the night before the test. Go for a short run, ride your bicycle, or work on a puzzle. The idea is to stimulate yourself without exhausting yourself. Physical activity gets the blood pumping, which can improve blood flow to the brain and make it easier to stay alert and focused during the text. Similarly, mental stimulation can get the metaphorical gears turning in your head, preparing your brain for the problem solving it will need to perform on the test.^[9]
   
   • Then, make sure that you get a good night's sleep. A good night's sleep is very important since it allows you to wake up refreshed and recharged. Aim for a full 8 hours the night before the test.
2. Eat a healthy breakfast the morning of the test. The breakfast you eat should be healthy but fairly normal in size. If all you usually eat in the morning is a bowl of cereal, opt for a healthier cereal option and hydrate yourself with orange juice. This will make sure that your body has plenty of energy and that you won't get hungry or crash halfway through the test.
   
   • Do not eat a large meal if you are not used to it, since eating a lot of food can cause you to slow down and become tired.
3. Gather the materials that you'll need for the test. Your school should inform you of what to bring with you on the day of the test. If nothing else, you will need to have an appropriate ID, approved calculator, #2 pencils, and your test ticket. Bring a silent watch (but none with smart abilities like the Apple Watch) to keep track of time, as there may not be a clock available. Bring multiple pencils, erasers, a scientific or graphing calculator, and a water bottle.^[10]
   
   • You should also lay out a route from your home to the testing center. If you have never been to the testing center, take a drive there before the day of the test to familiarize yourself with the roads.

[Edit]Taking the Test

1. Stay calm during the test to maximize your score. Panic will only hurt you in the end, and if you think you will fail, you risk setting your sights on failure instead of success. Go to the testing center with as much confidence as possible. If you find yourself getting nervous or stressed during the test, stand up, take a sip of water, and do a couple stretches to clear your head.
   
   • Remember that very few test-takers finish every question on every part of the ACT!
2. Work the easiest questions first and don't be afraid to skip tough ones. You need to pace yourself throughout the test in order to ensure that you have enough time to answer all the questions. If one question has you stumped or confused, make a mental note to come back to it later and move onto the next question. It's much better to answer 10 questions correctly than to spend 15 minutes puzzling through 1 impossibly difficult question!^[11]
   
   • There's also no need to answer the questions in order. If the last question seems like the easiest to you, solve that one first! Answer the questions you know first before returning to the ones you have to mull over.
3. Answer every question even if you're not sure of the answer. There is no penalty for wrong answers on the ACT, so it is in your best interest to guess the correct answer rather than leaving a question blank. It's best to make an educated guess, if possible, rather than randomly penciling in answers to questions you didn't finish.^[12]
   
   • Only resort to randomly penciling in answers if you have less than a minute left and don't have time to make educated guesses.
4. Eliminate incorrect answers to find the correct one. Since the ACT is a multiple-choice test, you can use the process of elimination to improve your chances of answering problems correctly. For example, say that you're given choices A, B, C, and D, but you quickly deduce that B and C are incorrect. You can guess either A or D and have a 50% chance of being right, which are much better odds than the 25% chance you'd have if you hadn't eliminated answers.^[13]
   
   • In the math section, you can quickly eliminate any answers that aren't remotely close to the number you came up with (even if your answer doesn't match any of the given answers).
   • In reading and science, many incorrect answers to the questions may initially seem feasible. However, if even 1 aspect of the answer seems wrong to you, you should eliminate the answer.
5. Leave yourself 5 minutes at the end to check your work. While you're taking the test, put a small, light mark next to questions that you struggled to answer or don't feel confident about. During the final 5 minutes of each section of the ACT, review the questions that you marked. Reread the question, check your work, and correct any answers that you may have answered incorrectly the first time around.^[14]
   
   • If you're waffling between 2 different answers, go with your gut feeling. It's also a good idea to trust your first impulse rather than overthinking the problem.

[Edit]Tips

• Remember that you can take the ACT more than once. You can take the ACT multiple times, so if you do not ace it your first time around, you can try again later. But it's best to shoot for a great score the first time so that you do not have to repeat the test again.
• If you'd like an extra, fun way to study for the test each day, review the ACT "Question of the Day." This question is available on the ACT website for free: http://www.act.org/qotd/.
• Do not drink a bunch of caffeine in the morning right before taking the ACT. You can have a cup of coffee or tea if that is part of your morning routine, but drinking a lot of caffeine in the morning to give yourself an energy buzz is risky since you will likely find your blood sugar and energy crashing halfway through the ACT.
• Figure out in advance whether or not the college you want to attend wants you to take the optional writing portion of the test. Since this part is optional, many colleges and universities do not need to see it, so you can skip taking it if that is the case. Many colleges and universities do want to see that score, however, so you should find out beforehand before opting out of it.
• Resist the urge to cram for the ACT. The test covers a wide range of material, and the amount of material you need to study for is vastly greater than the amount of information you need for a standard high school test.

[Edit]Related wikiHows

• Interpret ACT Scores
• Study for the ACT
• Ace the ACT
• Choose Between the SAT or ACT Test
• Deal With Exam Anxiety
• Improve Your Memory
• Plan an Essay Using a Mind Map

[Edit]References

1. ↑ http://www.actstudent.org/testprep/descriptions/
2. ↑ https://blog.prepscholar.com/how-to-ace-the-act
3. ↑ https://blog.prepscholar.com/what-is-a-good-act-score-a-bad-act-score-an-excellent-act-score
4. ↑ https://blog.prepscholar.com/how-to-ace-the-act
5. ↑ https://blog.prepscholar.com/how-to-ace-the-act
6. ↑ https://www.homehighschoolhelp.com/how-to-ace-the-sat-or-act
7. ↑ https://www.princetonreview.com/college-advice/act-science-tips-and-strategies
8. ↑ https://www.princetonreview.com/college-advice/act-writing-prompt
9. ↑ http://www.boston.com/mt/yourcampus/college-bound-boston/2013/09/tips_from_tutors_on_how_to_ace.html
10. ↑ https://www.act.org/content/act/en/products-and-services/the-act/test-day.html
11. ↑ https://www.arkansasnext.com/article/26642/preparing-for-the-act-and-sat
12. ↑ https://blog.prepscholar.com/act-hacks
13. ↑ https://blog.prepscholar.com/how-to-ace-the-act
14. ↑ https://blog.prepscholar.com/how-to-ace-the-act

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How to Cut Squash

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There are many kinds of squash, such as butternut and acorn, that have tough, starchy interiors that are hard to cut. If you're making a recipe with squash, you'll have to cut it into strips or cubes so it can cook quickly and evenly. Although squashes might be differently shaped, they can all be cut the same way. Just make sure to practice safe knife skills while you're making your cuts!

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Peeling and Halving the Squash

1. Cut off the top and bottom of the squash. Lay the squash on its side on top of a cutting board. Use a large chef's knife that's about long so it can cut through the squash completely. Hold the squash steady with your nondominant hand and use the knife to slice the top and bottom areas so they're flat.^[1]
   
   
   • Make sure to remove the stem completely since you won't be able to cut through it.
2. Peel the squash if you want to remove the skin. Keep the squash in place with your nondominant hand and hold a vegetable peeler in your dominant hand so it's at a 45-degree angle to the squash. Press the peeler into the squash, then pull it down along the length of the squash to remove the skin. Rotate the squash when you're finished peeling one side so you can peel the rest of the skin.^[2]
   
   
   • You don't have to peel the squash if you don't want to.
   • Try microwaving the squash for 30 seconds to heat up the skin and make it easier to peel.
3. Set the squash upright so the widest side is on the bottom. Put the squash on your cutting board so one of the flat edges you cut is on the bottom. Make sure the widest part of the squash is closer to the cutting board so it doesn't tip over or move as much while you're cutting it.^[3]
   
   
   
   • Put your cutting board on a level surface so it doesn't wobble while you're using it.
4. Use a rocking motion to cut through the middle of the squash. Use the same chef's knife as before and set the blade in the middle of the top flat side. Press the blade into the squash and put your hand on top so the squash can't move around. Rock your knife up and down to work through the squash until you cut through the bottom.^[4]
   
   
   • If you have trouble cutting through the squash right away, try putting it in the microwave for 30 seconds to 1 minute to make it easier. Be careful since the inside of the squash will be hot.
   • Don't keep your fingers below the knife blade since the blade could slip and you could cut yourself.
5. Scoop out the seeds with a metal spoon. Look for the area inside your squash that contains the seeds and scrape them out. Use the edge of a metal spoon to remove all of the seeds so they don't get in the way while you're cutting the squash. Be sure to remove any of the stringy pieces of the squash that are hanging near the seeds as well.^[5]
   
   
   • You can throw away or roast the seeds when you're finished.

[Edit]Cutting the Squash into Strips or Cubes

1. Cut the squash into strips that are thick. Turn the halves of squash over so the flat sides are against the cutting board and the longest side faces you. Start on one end of the squash and use your knife to cut strips. Start with the tip of your knife on the board and rock it forward to cut through the squash.^[6]
   
   
   • Keep your fingers curled on your nondominant hand so you don't cut yourself.
   • The size of the strips depends on the recipe you're following. Check it before you start cutting your squash to make sure it's the right size.
2. Stack the slices and cut them in half lengthwise. Take 3-4 strips you just cut and stack them on top of one another so they line up along an edge. Squeeze the long sides of your stack to hold them in place while you cut them in half lengthwise. When you're finished with your cut, you should have 6-8 pieces that are all uniform in size.^[7]
   
   
   • You can cook the squash in strips if you want to.
3. Rotate the strips and cut them into cubes if you want. Turn the strips 90-degrees so the longer edges are facing toward you. Use your knife to cut then strips into cubes so they are all the same size. Keep cutting your squash until it's all cubed.^[8]
   
   
   • A squash that's will give you about 4 ½ cups (0.92 kg) of cubed squash
4. Store squash in your fridge for up to 4 days. If you don't plan on cooking the squash right away, then put the cubes or strips into an airtight container or plastic bag. Press all the air out if you can and then put it in your fridge. You can use the squash for up to 4 days before it starts to go bad.^[9]
   
   
   
   • You can freeze squash as well, but it stays preserved better if you cook it first.

[Edit]Staying Safe While Cutting

1. Sharpen your knives before you start cutting. Squash is tough when it's raw and can be difficult to cut through with a dull knife. Drag the blade of your knife at a 20-degree angle across a whetstone or a honing rod to keep the blade sharp. Make sure to sharpen each side of the knife so it cuts evenly.^[10]
   
   
   
   • Sharpen your knives every 2-4 times you use them to maintain their edge.
2. Make sure your cutting surface is stable. Use a flat surface, like a counter or table top, when you cut your squash, or else it could fall. Set your cutting board down and press down on each side to make sure it doesn't wobble. If it does, find a new spot to cut the squash.^[11]
   
   
   
   • If a plastic cutting board wobbles, check the bottoms to see if any of the rubber grips have fallen off on the bottom. If they have, then set something underneath the cutting board to prevent it from moving.
3. Hit the knife lightly with a rubber mallet if it gets stuck. Sometimes, your knife may get stuck while you're cutting a large squash. Hold the handle of the knife from the bottom and tap the top of the handle with a rubber mallet. Keep tapping the knife until it gets through the tough spot, and then cut the rest of the squash as usual.^[12]
   
   
   • Don't hit the squash too hard or the knife may make a crooked cut.

[Edit]Warnings

• Keep your fingers away from the knife blade so you don't accidentally cut yourself.
• Make sure your work surface is sturdy so the squash doesn't slip while you try to cut it.

[Edit]Things You'll Need

• Cutting board
• Chef's knife
• Spoon

[Edit]References

1. ↑ https://www.simplyrecipes.com/recipes/how_to_peel_and_cut_a_butternut_squash/
2. ↑ https://www.simplyrecipes.com/recipes/how_to_peel_and_cut_a_butternut_squash/
3. ↑ https://www.bonappetit.com/test-kitchen/how-to/article/how-to-cut-acorn-squash
4. ↑ https://www.simplyrecipes.com/recipes/how_to_peel_and_cut_a_butternut_squash/
5. ↑ https://www.bonappetit.com/test-kitchen/how-to/article/how-to-cut-acorn-squash
6. ↑ https://www.simplyrecipes.com/recipes/how_to_peel_and_cut_a_butternut_squash/
7. ↑ https://www.simplyrecipes.com/recipes/how_to_peel_and_cut_a_butternut_squash/
8. ↑ https://www.simplyrecipes.com/recipes/how_to_peel_and_cut_a_butternut_squash/
9. ↑ https://www.doesitgobad.com/does-butternut-squash-go-bad/
10. ↑ https://www.simplyrecipes.com/recipes/how_to_peel_and_cut_a_butternut_squash/
11. ↑ https://www.bonappetit.com/test-kitchen/how-to/article/how-to-cut-acorn-squash
12. ↑ https://www.simplyrecipes.com/recipes/how_to_peel_and_cut_a_butternut_squash/

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How to Get Over Your Ex

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Getting over someone you loved can feel like an impossible task, but there is hope! You feel a lot of pain right now because your relationship gave you a boost of dopamine, which is a chemical that makes you feel happy. Now that your ex is out of your life, you're no longer getting that happiness boost. Fortunately, you can work through your painful emotions and come out stronger than before!

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Coping After a Breakup

1. Keep yourself busy for 2-3 weeks after a breakup. Going through a breakup is especially painful because the love and attention you got from your ex is gone. Now that your ex is out of your life, you're probably feeling painful withdrawals. To help yourself feel better, fill your day with self-care and fun activities with your friends and family. Here are some ways to take care of yourself:
   
   • Spend 15-60 minutes in the morning focusing on your intentions.
   • Do a fun exercise like dancing or kickboxing.
   • Take care of your basic needs, like eating, bathing, and cleaning your space.
   • Do something nice for yourself, like getting a spa treatment or buying a special cup of coffee.
   • Go to work or school.
   • Spend time working on a personal goal or hobby.
2. Create a routine to help you take care of your needs. When you were with your ex, you likely had a routine that involved talking to and seeing them. Switching up your routine may help you focus on the future. Develop a new schedule for yourself that focuses on the life you want. Be sure to include reminders to keep up with your responsibilities, like paying your bills, washing your clothes, and eating healthy meals.
   
   • During a breakup, taking care of yourself can be really hard. Following a routine can help you keep up with your healthy habits!
3. Use distraction to keep your mind off your ex in the first few days. Since your relationship made you happy, you're naturally going to be craving that feeling after you breakup. However, thinking about your ex and remembering your relationship will only make your pain last longer. Instead, do an activity that requires you to focus on the present to distract yourself from your pain. Pick something that makes you feel happy and helps you have fun without your ex!
   
   • For instance, invite your friends over for a game night, go for a nature walk, do a scavenger hunt, take a painting class with your friends, read an exciting book, or go to a Meetup.
   • Don't use distraction to avoid your feelings altogether. Eventually, you'll need to deal with the painful emotions you're feeling.
4. Engage in activities that make you feel good to get a dopamine boost. Replacing the dopamine boost you got from your relationship may help you feel better post-breakup. Do at least 1 activity every day that makes you feel great. Pick things that are healthy for you and support your lifestyle goals rather than using unhealthy coping strategies. Here are some ideas:
   
   • Exercise for at least 30 minutes a day.
   • Take an art or cooking class.
   • Join a recreational sports team.
   • Get a pet if you've been wanting one.
   • Join a club that's focused on your interests.
   • Volunteer for a cause you care about.
5. Surround yourself with friends and family to create a support system. During a breakup, you need to be a part of a community. Reach out to your family and friends for help during this time. Invite them to spend time with you and talk or text with them daily. This can remind you that you're well-loved.^[1]
   
   • You might feel tempted to withdraw during a breakup, but you need to be with people you care about. If you don't feel like going out, ask a friend or relative to do something fun with you at home, like watching a movie or making a craft project.

[Edit]Processing Your Emotions

1. Shake your body to burn off excess energy. When you feel strong emotions like sadness, anger, and anxiety, your body releases negative energy as part of your survival response. However, this negative energy can make you feel bad if you don't get it out. An easy way to release the energy is to shake your body. Start at your shoulders and slowly move down to your feet, shaking yourself as you go. As you do this, imagine that the negative energy is leaving your body.
   
   • If you don't like shaking yourself, try releasing the energy through a vigorous workout.
2. Vent your feelings to someone you trust. Talking about how you feel can help you feel better. Choose someone you can trust to share your feelings with. Then, tell them about what happened and how it's affecting you. Additionally, share any worries you have.
   
   • Ask the person to listen to you without giving you advice. Say, "This breakup is really hard. Do you mind if I vent a little?"
3. Examine the reasons why your ex isn't right for you. Don't idealize your ex after your breakup. Instead, focus on the qualities that make them a bad match for you. Think about the times they let you down or the qualities they don't have. Let this convince you that things weren't meant to work out between you.^[2]
   
   • Consider the things you want in a partner. Later, you can use this list to help you find a better partner for yourself.
4. Confront beliefs that you won't find love again if you feel this way. Your breakup may be more painful if you thought your ex was "the one" for you. It might be hard to imagine yourself with someone else, but it will happen one day. Stop thinking that you have just one soulmate out there. Instead, remind yourself that you will find love again.
   
   • You don't have just one match out there in the world. Everyone has several different potential love matches, so it's no big deal if one relationship ends.
5. Use a gratitude journal to identify what's going well in your life. Focusing on the positives in your life can help you balance out your negative emotions, and expressing gratitude for the good things in your life is a great way to think positively! In your gratitude journal, write down 3-5 things every day that you're grateful for. These can be big or small things! When you feel down, re-read all of your lists to help you feel better.
   
   • For instance, you might write, "my friends, my cat, and beautiful weather today."

[Edit]Removing Your Ex from Your Life

1. Get rid of physical reminders of your ex. Seeing things that remind you of your ex will keep you locked in the cycle of craving their affection. Go through your living space and remove anything that makes you think of them. Take down photos, remove gifts, and collect mementos. Donate or throw away the items so they won't remind you of the past.^[3]
   
   • If you don't want to throw the stuff away, put the items in a box that you can give to a friend. When you're ready, your friend can either discard the box or return it to you.
2. Do a digital detox to avoid reminders of your ex. Your digital world is likely full of reminders about your relationship, and seeing them will be painful. Don't scroll through photos of you and your ex during good times because it will make it take longer for you to get over them. Here's what you need to do to detox digitally:^[4]
   
   • Unfollow all of their social media pages.
   • Delete all of your ex's text or email messages.
   • Save your relationship photos to a folder you can access later, then delete them.
   • Block their phone number.
   • Stay off social media in the days after the breakup.
3. Focus on yourself instead of worrying about what your ex is doing. You might be wondering about who your ex is seeing, what they're doing, or if they feel bad about what happened. Don't give them one more second of your time! Instead of worrying about them, keep your mind on your own needs and wants.
   
   • When you catch yourself thinking about your ex, turn your attention to a hobby or interest.
4. Say "no" to post-break up sex with your ex. It's normal to feel tempted to hook up with your ex, but doing so will only make the pain worse. Your brain is hardwired to form an emotional connection during sex, and it'll be an even stronger connection if you're doing it with someone you used to love. Don't be alone with your ex after the breakup so you won't be tempted.
   
   • If you have to see them, ask someone to go with you so that you won't be alone with them.

[Edit]Returning to Yourself

1. Focus on your existing relationships and on making new friends. Healthy relationships with your friends and family can help you be a stronger, more independent person. Plus, they will help you realize that you don't need your ex! Spend time with the people who are important to you so you can grow closer to them. Additionally, go to local events, clubs, Meetups, or classes to meet new people.^[5]
   
   • Keep in touch with your friends by talking or texting daily.
   • Join your friends for coffee dates, dinner, and games.
2. Pursue the interests you set aside during your relationship. While you were with your ex, it's likely that you gave up part of yourself to become a partner to them. Now that you're apart, regaining what you lost can help you enjoy being single! Think about the things you enjoyed before you got with your ex. Then, start including those things in you routine.
   
   • For instance, you might have given up your gym membership because you never had time to go. Now is the time to renew it!
   • As another example, you might have stopped painting or doing photography because you were spending more time with your ex. Break out your equipment and dive back into that hobby!
3. Start a new passion project to help you feel fulfilled. Pick a goal you've always wanted to accomplish or something that's always interested you. Then, make a list of steps you can take to start working on it. Dedicate a block of time each day to work on your goal, and try to check off the steps on your list. This can help you stop thinking about your ex and build your independence.
   
   • For example, you might decide to pursue a degree or to start a photography business.
   • As you work on your passion project, remind yourself that you're building a future for yourself that isn't dependent on a relationship.
4. Try new things that your ex refused to do with you. Think about the times your ex said "no" to something you wanted to do, like trying a new restaurant or visiting a local museum. Then, create a breakup bucket list of these items. Ask a friend to join you or go alone as you check off each item on the list. Each time you do something, remind yourself that your ex was holding you back from it.
   
   • For instance, join a friend for Indian food at the restaurant your ex wouldn't try, paint pottery with a group of friends, play beach volleyball, go on a picnic in the park, visit the planetarium, and go to a slam poetry reading.
5. Identify the future you want for yourself. Picture yourself in a year, 5 years, and 10 years. Think about how you want to live and what type of things you want to do. Then, write down what you hope to accomplish in the coming years so you can start working toward those goals. This can help you create a life you love as you move on from your ex.
   
   • For instance, you might want to buy a home, build your career, and take your dream vacation.
   • Similarly, you might realize that you want to add more creativity to your life or that you want to move to a different area.

[Edit]Video

[Edit]Tips

• Do not rush into a new relationship. You don't want to drag a bunch of emotional baggage into someone else's life. You may end up realizing that your new partner is someone you barely know or do not have any real interest in. Focus on feeling better about yourself.
• Focus on building new memories with your friends to replace bad feelings about your ex.

[Edit]Warnings

• Ignore all the rumors and things that might be going around about you and your ex. They are not worth your time.
• Make sure you do not use another person to make your ex jealous. It won't work, and you may end up hurting both yourself and the other person.
• Don't waste your energy trying to get back at your ex. The best revenge is creating a life you love and pursuing your own happiness!

[Edit]Related wikiHows

• Get Your Ex Back
• Get Your Ex Girlfriend Back
• Forget Your Ex Girlfriend

[Edit]References

[Edit]Quick Summary

1. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-squeaky-wheel/201501/7-mistakes-you-need-avoid-after-breakup
2. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-mindful-self-express/201603/is-your-brain-breakup
3. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-squeaky-wheel/201501/7-mistakes-you-need-avoid-after-breakup
4. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/having-sex-wanting-intimacy/201612/4-reasons-stay-out-contact-your-ex
5. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-squeaky-wheel/201501/7-mistakes-you-need-avoid-after-breakup

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How to Get Coffee Stains Out of a White Shirt

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Coffee may benefit your health, but it does not benefit your clothes. While a coffee stain can seem especially hopeless on a white shirt, you can easily treat and clean it at home. If you've recently spilled coffee on a white shirt, laundry detergent is a great method to try. For stains that have dried, try soaking the shirt in a vinegar solution, applying a stain stick, or washing it with bleach.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Removing Fresh Coffee Stains

1. Check the label to see what your shirt is made out of. Take off the white shirt place it on a flat area, like a table or ironing board. Depending on the fabric, the coffee might not have fully absorbed into the shirt. ^[1] Materials like cotton and linen absorb more water than fabrics like polyester and acrylic. A stained cotton shirt might require more blotting than a polyester one.^[2]
   
   • Take your shirt to a dry cleaner if you'd prefer to have it cleaned professionally.
   • If you can't find a good surface to lay your shirt on, consider placing an old towel on a section of floor or carpet. This will secure the shirt without staining the floor below.
2. Soak up the excess coffee with a paper towel. Apply pressure to the stained area with a folded paper towel. Use quick motions to blot up any extra coffee. Place your other hand on the side of the shirt to keep it secure while you blot.^[3]
   
   
   • If one portion of the towel absorbs too much coffee, rotate the paper towel so that a clean section blots up the coffee. Use a new paper towel as needed.
3. Soak the shirt in cold water and wring it out. Hold the blotted shirt under cold, running water for several minutes before twisting out any excess. Hold the shirt under the running water until the stained area is completely soaked. Keep the stain submerged for at least 3 minutes, and rub the stain with your fingers to coax it away with water.^[4]
   
   
   • Repeat this process as needed until the coffee stain has diminished.
4. Add a coin-sized amount of detergent to the spot. Take your usual laundry detergent and pour a small, coin-sized amount on top of the stain. You don't need to get a special detergent for this—any kind will do, as long as it's in liquid form. ^[5]
   
   • If you don't want to pour out too much detergent at once, use the cap to pour a smaller amount.
5. Rub the detergent in with your fingers and let it sit for 3-5 minutes. Put on rubber gloves and rub the cleaning product into the coffee stain before leaving the shirt alone for at least 3 minutes. Use short, gentle movements, so you don't disturb the fabric of the shirt. While the fabric is damp, rub in the detergent.^[6]
   
   
6. Massage the coffee stain after 5 minutes. Use the tips of your fingers to rub any lingering detergent into the fabric. This final effort helps to remove any visible portions of the stain before you put it in the washing machine. Don't be discouraged if you don't see any visible changes after rubbing in the detergent.^[7]
   
   
   • Wash your hands thoroughly after making direct contact with any cleaning agents.
7. Rinse out any remaining detergent. Hold the shirt over a sink and turn on the faucet. Use cold, running water to rinse the detergent out of the stained area. Take both hands and wring the water out until there are no more suds rinsing out of the shirt.^[8]
   
   
8. Clean your shirt using the washing machine. Take the damp shirt and place it into your washing machine. Pour a small amount of regular detergent into the machine before beginning the cycle. Ideally, the water should be somewhere between and so the stain doesn't set. You can wash this shirt in a separate load or with other whites.^[9]
   
   
   • Switch to a stain removal detergent if you want to use a stronger cleaning formula.
9. Make sure that the stain is gone before drying. Remove the shirt from the washing machine and check to see if the stain is gone. Do not dry or iron the shirt until you're positive that you've removed the stain. Heat makes stains permanent in clothing.^[10]
   
   • If there's still a coffee stain visible after you've treated and washed the shirt, consider using some other home remedies, like bleach, vinegar, or stain remover.

[Edit]Getting Rid of Dried Coffee Stains

1. Remove your shirt and check to see what it's made out of. Take off your shirt and lay it on a flat surface so that you can examine it more carefully. Coffee tends to completely soak through natural fibers like linen and cotton, but it may have only stained the surface of less absorbent materials like polyester. More absorbent clothing fibers like cotton and linen may have to soak in a cleaning solution longer than polyester or acrylic materials.^[11]
   
   • Acrylic fibers are also more water-resistant.
2. Pour warm water into a large container. Use a faucet to pour of warm water into a bucket or other large container. The water should be lukewarm, and not hot to the touch. Make sure that the shirt can fit in the bucket or container without any water overflowing.^[12]
   
   
   • Water is considered lukewarm between and .
3. Mix white vinegar and dish soap into the water. Measure out of white vinegar and of dish detergent and stir them into the warm water. Mix the solution for 1-2 minutes until you are sure that the detergent has dissolved completely. Use a ruler or a long, wooden spoon to stir the mixture together.^[13]
   
   
   • You can use distilled white vinegar instead of the regular kind. Distilled vinegar is purified and a little less acidic than regular white vinegar, so it won't be as potent in the mixture.^[14]
4. Soak the shirt in the mixture for 15 minutes. Use both hands to delicately place the stained shirt into the vinegar and dish soap solution. Let the shirt soak for at least 15 minutes, so the mixture can set into the stain. Don't worry if it doesn't soak for that exact amount of time.^[15]
   
   
5. Rinse out the shirt to check the stain. Remove the shirt from the bucket and wring it out over the sink. Turn on the faucet so that cold water runs over the shirt. Take a close look at the fabric to see if the stain has washed out completely.^[16]
   
   
6. Apply a stain removal agent if vinegar doesn't work. Check the instructions on your stain removal agent and apply the designated amount of product to the stain. Let the product sit for several minutes, depending on what the instructions say.^[17]
   
   • Purchase stain removal agents at any store that sells laundry detergent.
7. Wash with bleach if the stain persists. Add your shirt to a larger load of wash that you plan to bleach. Double check all clothing labels to make sure that each item can be washed with bleach. Pour in the specified amount into your load of wash and run a hot water cycle.^[18]
   
   • Don't use bleach if your shirt is made of silk, leather, wool, or Lycra. Instead, try using a stain removal agent again.
   • Clean your washing machine after running a cycle with bleach.
8. Air-dry the shirt in an open area. Take the rinsed shirt and hang it in an open area. Hang your shirt outside or indoors.^[19] Make sure that the shirt gets plenty of open air so it can dry completely.^[20]
   
   • Buy an indoor drying rack at a home supply store to make sure that your shirt gets an even amount of air while drying.^[21]
   • Don't put the stained shirt in the dryer until the stain is removed. Large amounts of heat will permanently set the stain.^[22]

[Edit]Things You'll Need

[Edit]Removing Fresh Coffee Stains

• Paper towel
• Laundry detergent
• Rubber gloves

[Edit]Getting Rid of Dried Coffee Stains

• Vinegar
• Dish soap
• Bleach
• Stain remover

[Edit]References

1. ↑ https://www.cleanipedia.com/gb/laundry/how-to-remove-coffee-stains.html
2. ↑ https://www.si.edu/mci/english/learn_more/taking_care/stains.html
3. ↑ https://www.omo.com/za/laundry/laundry-tips/stains/how-to-remove-coffee-stains.html
4. ↑ https://www.cleaninginstitute.org/cleaning-tips/clothes/stain-removal-guide
5. ↑ https://www.cleanipedia.com/gb/laundry/how-to-remove-coffee-stains.html
6. ↑ https://www.cleanipedia.com/gb/laundry/how-to-remove-coffee-stains.html
7. ↑ https://www.cleanipedia.com/gb/laundry/how-to-remove-coffee-stains.html
8. ↑ https://www.omo.com/za/laundry/laundry-tips/stains/how-to-remove-coffee-stains.html
9. ↑ https://www.omo.com/za/laundry/laundry-tips/stains/how-to-remove-coffee-stains.html
10. ↑ https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home/cleaning/a24670/3-secrets-to-keeping-your-whites-white/
11. ↑ https://www.si.edu/mci/english/learn_more/taking_care/stains.html
12. ↑ https://www.bhg.com/homekeeping/laundry-linens/stain-removal/how-to-remove-coffee-stains/
13. ↑ https://www.bhg.com/homekeeping/laundry-linens/stain-removal/how-to-remove-coffee-stains/
14. ↑ http://www.sweetlivingmagazine.co.nz/white-vs-distilled-vinegar/
15. ↑ https://www.bhg.com/homekeeping/laundry-linens/stain-removal/how-to-remove-coffee-stains/
16. ↑ https://www.bhg.com/homekeeping/laundry-linens/stain-removal/how-to-remove-coffee-stains/
17. ↑ https://www.cleanipedia.com/gb/laundry/how-to-bleach-clothes.html
18. ↑ https://www.cleanipedia.com/gb/laundry/how-to-bleach-clothes.html
19. ↑ https://www.omo.com/za/laundry/laundry-tips/stains/how-to-remove-coffee-stains.html
20. ↑ https://www.bhg.com/homekeeping/laundry-linens/stain-removal/how-to-remove-coffee-stains/
21. ↑ https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/uk/house-and-home/household-advice/a682266/quick-tricks-for-drying-laundry/
22. ↑ https://www.cleaninginstitute.org/cleaning-tips/clothes/stain-removal-guide

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How to Stop Eating Meat

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The decision to stop eating meat is a very personal one. You might be concerned about animal welfare, environmental impacts, or your own health. Regardless of your reason for giving up meat, you'll be more likely to stick with it if you create achievable goals, replace the meat with nutritious food, and find a diet that works for you. Remember that giving up meat will take some adjustment, so don't stop trying if you relapse or crave meat.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Setting Yourself up for Success

1. List the reasons you want to stop eating meat. You might have a vague idea of why you don't want to eat meat anymore or you may have specific reasons. Take a few minutes to write down all the reasons you have for not eating meat. You can refer to this list later if you're struggling and it can remind you why not eating meat is important to you. Examples of reasons could include:^[1]
   
   • Lowering your cholesterol or reducing inflammation
   • Reducing your environmental impact
   • Improving animal welfare
2. Make small, achievable goals towards giving up meat. If giving up meat is your ultimate goal, think of all the smaller steps you need to take to get there. Write down goals or barriers that you'll have to get past and celebrate when you achieve them. This can give you momentum for reaching your goal.^[2]
   
   • For example, you might challenge yourself to give up eating fast food within 1 week or cutting back the number of meals with meat to 3 times a week.
   • Some gradual goals could be cutting out red meat within 2 weeks, not eating chicken within 3 weeks, and not eating pork by 1 month.
   • Make some of your goals fun. You could challenge yourself to try 2 new vegetarian ingredients or cuisine each week, for instance.
3. Set a deadline for when you want your diet to be meat-free. As you set your goals, continue to make them more challenging so you can reach your goal of not eating meat. It can help to have a deadline in mind so you know you're working towards a specific end.^[3]
   
   • You might tell yourself that you want your diet to be meat-free within 3 months. Your goals can gradually work meat out of your diet by then.
4. Create a plan to deal with cravings. You may find yourself missing meat or at least thinking about it more. Instead of giving in, try to think of an alternative way to satisfy your craving. You might be craving meat because you want a specific flavor, so try these common swaps:^[4]
   
   • If you're craving a filling, butter flavor, eat avocado instead of meat.
   • Make a peanut butter sandwich instead of chicken if you're craving protein.
   • Eat mushrooms, miso, or parmesan cheese if you're craving a savory umami flavor.
5. Don't give up if you relapse and eat meat. You don't have to stop eating meat completely. Even eating less meat than you used to can have positive impacts. Giving up meat can be difficult, especially if you've grown up eating it at every meal. Remind yourself that you can work towards your next goal and you'll eventually be able to stop eating meat altogether.
   

[Edit]Gradually Eating Less Meat

1. Make meal plans for a few days or a week. Don't wait until you're really hungry to decide what you want to eat or order. Instead, plan nutritious plant-based meals so you don't have an excuse to just grab a meat-based meal. Set aside a few hours to make a list of the meals you plan to make during the week and the ingredients you'll need.^[5]
   
   • If you have time, you could also prep some of the ingredients. Chopping produce ahead of time can make it easier to get a vegetarian meal on the table.
   • It's also a good idea to plan some savory snacks since these can curb your cravings for meat. For example, keep smoked nuts, roasted chickpeas, or vegetable chips in the pantry.
2. Use a little meat as a flavor instead of the main dish. If you eliminate meat from your diet, you might experience cravings. To reduce cravings, try eating meat as a supporting ingredient instead of making it the focus of a meal. For example, buy a package of bacon and cook just a few slices to crumble into pasta with roasted vegetables.^[6]
   
   • For example, instead of cooking lasagna with ground beef, make a vegetable lasagna but include a few slices of chopped prosciutto to give it a little meaty flavor.
3. Add new vegetarian ingredients or cuisines to your diet. It's easy to focus on missing meat, but you can distract yourself and your tastebuds by trying new flavors. For example, instead of eating rice a few times a week, make quinoa or farro.^[7]
   
   • Swap out your standard meat and potatoes meal for a vegetable and noodle dish, such as veggie udon.
4. Try meat substitutes as you cut meat out of your diet. If you really miss the flavor and texture of meat, buy a meat substitute. There are more high-quality meat substitutes than ever, so try a few to see what you like. You can find patties, crumbles or links made from textured vegetable protein, tempeh, or seitan.^[8]
   
   • Don't forget to check the freezer section of your grocery store for some of these meat substitutes.
5. Add plant-based protein sources to your diet. If you're used to getting most of your protein from meat, you'll need to ensure that you're still getting it in the foods you eat. To get a variety of nutrients, eat different plant-based proteins throughout the day. Try eating:^[9]
   
   • Nuts and seeds
   • Beans
   • Lentils
   • Whole grains

[Edit]Trying a New Diet

1. Talk with your doctor about your nutritional needs. It's always a good idea to consult with your doctor about your diet, especially if you're trying to become a vegetarian to improve your health. Your doctor might recommend that you take supplements that contain:^[10]
   
   • Vitamin B-12
   • Omega-3 fatty acids
   • Iron
   • Vitamin D
2. Try a flexitarian diet if you want to occasionally eat meat or fish. Some people find that they miss eating meat or want to reintroduce it to their diet. Decide if you'd like to start eating meat again in much smaller amounts. If you'd like to eat meat a few times a week, the flexitarian diet might be the best choice for you.^[11]
   
   • Remember that you're not stuck in any one diet. You might transition from a meat-based diet to a flexitarian diet before cutting out meat altogether.
3. Determine what type of vegetarian diet you want to follow. Once you no longer eat meat, you need to decide if you'll eat animal products. Some lacto-vegetarians eat dairy, such as milk and cheese, but not eggs while ovo-vegetarians eat eggs but not dairy. Just decide which animal products you'll eat and which ones you'll avoid.^[12]
   
   • Lacto-ovo-vegetarians don't eat meat, but they do eat dairy and eggs.
4. Eat a pescatarian diet if you want to include fish. If you live somewhere with easy access to seafood, you might want to keep this protein source in your diet while cutting out red meat, poultry, and pork. Realize that you don't have to eat seafood every day to follow a pescatarian diet. You'll still need to include lots of plant-based protein sources, fruits, and vegetables.^[13]
   
   • Aim for a variety of seafood throughout the week so you're getting lots of nutrients.
5. Consider a vegan diet if you don't want to eat any animal products. If you've been a vegetarian for a while and are eating a nutritious diet, you might decide to stop eating all animal products, such as eggs, dairy, and honey. Research which foods to cut from your diet so you can make the switch.^[14]
   
   • Keep in mind that some food products aren't vegan even though they don't have meat in them. For example, powdered sugar isn't vegan because it's processed with bone char.
   • Some vegans also choose to give up animal products of any kind, including clothing and home goods, such as leather belts or chairs.

[Edit]Tips

• If your friends or family don't support your decision to stop eating meat, you might not want to tell them. Instead, focus on meeting your goals.

[Edit]Related wikiHows

• Become a Vegetarian
• Buy Food for Vegetarians
• Become a Semi Vegetarian
• Become a Vegan

[Edit]References

1. ↑ https://www.health.com/health/article/0,,20410549,00.html
2. ↑ https://www.uofmhealth.org/health-library/zx3211
3. ↑ https://www.mdanderson.org/publications/focused-on-health/SMART-goals-diet-and-nutrition.h10-1591413.html
4. ↑ https://www.meatlessmonday.com/articles/5-unexpected-foods-satisfy-meat-cravings/
5. ↑ https://everydaypower.com/stop-eating-red-meat/
6. ↑ https://iheartvegetables.com/tiny-tweaks-eat-less-meat/
7. ↑ https://iheartvegetables.com/tiny-tweaks-eat-less-meat/
8. ↑ https://www.readersdigest.ca/food/healthy-food/4-satisfying-meat-alternatives/
9. ↑ https://www.elliekrieger.com/what-to-eat-more-of-if-youre-eating-less-meat/
10. ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/vegetarian-diet/art-20046446
11. ↑ https://health.usnews.com/best-diet/flexitarian-diet
12. ↑ https://vegetarian-nation.com/resources/common-questions/types-levels-vegetarian/
13. ↑ https://www.thekitchn.com/pescatarian-diet-267524
14. ↑ https://www.forbes.com/sites/nomanazish/2018/11/30/how-to-smoothly-transition-to-a-plant-based-diet/#7c37693b50dc

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