High schoolers may view the SAT/ACT as an insurmountable hurdle. There is a lot at stake— college admissions, scholarships. However, with adequate preparation, most students will find themselves more than ready to sit down on test day.
The key to achieving a desirable score on either test is simply preparation. Before stressing out or rushing off to purchase an expensive guide book, use the following steps to help your student get ready for the assessment ahead:
Understand how the test is structured
One of the key elements of SAT/ACT preparation is knowing what to expect when the test booklet is opened. Both tests are very predictable. Their structure and the information covered is widely accessible. In the same way that a teacher will tell students what’s on the midterm, ACT Inc and College Board publishes this information. Make sure that your student is preparing for exactly what’s coming and not what they think or assume will be on each test.
Play to strengths, not weaknesses
There are a lot of similarities between the SAT and ACT, but there are also many differences that students can exploit to their advantage. Colleges increasingly accept both tests in applications. Students should apply with the score that best highlights their abilities. Consider what your child’s strengths are as a student and how each test can best serve them as an applicant.
Decipher the score reports
Most students and parents have some bearing on what an A+ or C- means, but the grading system is different for standardized tests. Both tests are scored in a unique way. What is a 1600? A 56? What’s a ‘good’ score? How is each section graded? How do students lose points apart from obvious wrong answers? In addition to knowing what’s on the test, be sure to have a firm grip on how the information is valued.
Take assessments, Apply their results
Students are expected to practice, practice, practice for standardized tests. They should review the material they know they’ll encounter and take mock tests. Practice exams are readily available. They’re easily downloaded or bought. They will not only help your child prepare for reality but also help them study better and know how to improve their revision techniques. Use assessments to reveal where they need to focus their efforts and where their review is working.
Make a plan
Studying with a result in mind. Have your child outline how they plan to study in order to achieve that result. There is a lot of material to cover for the test, so be sure to include it all. Even subjects your student is presumably strong in. Don’t let them get caught on test day struggling to remember a formula that they assumed they already knew. Have your student set daily, weekly, cumulative goals that they can monitor and achieve with revision. Students can sit for the SAT/ACT more than once, but value even the early scores. Be sure each retake is done with purpose.
Study smart
Flashcards and study groups are all helpful, but students forget that healthy habits, like sleeping and eating, are equally as valuable when it comes to performing on test day. In addition to revising for the reading or math section, be sure your student is taking care of their body and mind as well. Take breaks and know to wrap up studying for the night. Use our standardized test cheat sheet to keep ahead of revision and ensure your student is ready for test day.
Enlist help
Not every high school learns best going through flashcards alone. The assistance of a tutor or experience of a classroom may be the extra boost your student needs to improve their scores.
In-Person - At a Location
For the most classroom-like experience, SAT/ACT tutorials are available in a group format. They’re usually located at designated learning centers and registered for ahead of time. Kaplan and Princeton Review are two popular options. Here are some other reputable services:
Huntington, $$
Unlike most centers, Huntington has more flexible hours and greater availability. Students are able to structure their prep to their own schedules and better focus on their individual needs.
Ivy Bound, $$
For students that need help in specific areas, Ivy Bound offers an in-person class on SAT Math & Verbal, a supplemental ACT class, and accelerated "speedy" SAT and PSAT courses.
Applerouth, $$$
With signature small group classes (capped at 8) and group classes (capped at 18), Applerouth is best for students that would benefit from general overview and an interactive teacher-led environment.
In-Person - At Home
Preparing for the SATs for some students requires more than just ordering a dictionary-sized book of practice tests and work through it. For those that need a more hands-on approach, in-person courses are an even more individualized, distraction-free option.
These search engines allow students to find tutors locally instead of going through a service. This exposes them to individuals who may know their school’s curriculum, what they’ve covered, and where they may need help.
Varsity's SAT or ACT prep tutorials are built to meet the logistical as well as the academic needs of a student. With options to receive help in-person, online, via phone or instant messenger, they are the most flexible option.
Private Prep, $$
Private Prep tutors are available to meet students either at one of their locations or in the home. They also host practice tests on the weekends and boasts a library of online resources for families to use.
Online - Self-Directed
For students that are able to self-direct their study and are able to focus on lessons without checking social media, there are several prep courses that can be completed online, on their phone, and in their own time.
Khan Academy, free
With a library of practice exercises and instructional videos, Khan Academy provides students with all the tools they need to guide themselves through to test day.
Peterson’s, $
This interactive, online course is best for students that thrive in an online environment and prefer to study on a tablet as opposed to at a desk.
Magoosh, $
Similar to Khan Academy, Magoosh is video-centric, very online, and ideal for students that are ready to lead their own lessons and be their own teacher.
Online - With Coaching
If your student wants to work online, but need a little more structure, there are options to add-on a tutor available with most SAT/ACT prep courses. The added presence of an actual person tracking their progress may be what your child needs to succeed.
PrepScholar, $$$
With customized courses, PrepScholar allows students to focus on areas where they need improvement. It prepares them for the challenges they will personally face instead of blindly studying all the material.
Kaplan, $$$Kaplan's online, interactive classrooms are led by knowledgeable instructors. The courses also come with video lessons, practice tests, live instructions, and other test prep resources.
Testive, $$$
For a combination of both online and in-person help, Testive provides students with the opportunity to chat one-on-one with instructors as well as work through coursework at their own speed.
As important that the SAT/ACT is, it is not the only avenue to college acceptance. Should a student realize in taking the test or preparing for it that their talents are elsewhere, know that it is not uncommon. There are other assessments and other paths for those students.
Consider test-optional schools
Depending on a student’s list, the SAT/ACT may not be required. An increasing number of schools are deprioritizing standardized tests in their application process. Students that don’t test well or have other strengths should consider test-optional schools that allow their applications to highlight other skills and talents.
Whether the SAT/ACT ends up being the centerpiece of your child’s college application or a high school learning experience they’re ready to forget, every student should walk away from the test knowing they did their best to prepare. Embrace test day. Have a sharp pencil, a calculator, an eraser, a snack, and layers packed and ready. Remind your student to do their best and know that ultimately that’s all they can do.
If you are interested in speaking with one of our Advisors about preparing for the SAT/ACT or other assessments, you can schedule a free consultation here.
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For additional information and insights, check out our blog:
What is the Best Time to Take the SAT/ACTs and What is the Best Way to Prepare for Them?
5 Simple Tips to Writing a Great College Application Essay
Crafting a Cohesive College Application
When Should Students Consider Applying Early Action/Early Decision?
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