Nine Quick Ways to Prepare for the SAT and ACT

I recommend that my juniors take their first SAT or ACT in December, so I’ve got testing on my mind!  Below are my top ten ways to prepare for the test that is often necessary for scholarships and financial aid, if not for college acceptance.

Start Early

I highly recommend that students start getting in the testing mindset early if they can.  Even if not starting to study, students should decide which test they’re taking and utilize the below tips to prepare.

Prepare for the Basics

By preparing for the basics, I mean reading a few extra non-fiction books and practicing mental math, among other things.  By working on your vocabulary and math skills, you’ll save some time on the test so you can focus on other things!

Take the PSAT

The PSAT is offered during both sophomore and junior years, and I recommend taking it both years!  Students are considered for National Merit scholarships for their junior year test, but getting the extra practice in taking a long, sit-down test is worth it.

Create a Study and Practice Test Schedule

Once you have your test date selected, build out a study and practice test schedule.  Your counselor or consultant can help you find the right test prep option for you and can help you build a schedule and set up your practice tests.

Learn Your Weaknesses

Yep - and work through them!  We all have weaknesses especially with testing, so figure it out.  Is it a specific subject? Is it managing your time? Whatever it is, take the time to learn your weaknesses and improve upon them!

Don’t Cram

Nope.  Don’t cram.  You have to take the time to study ahead of time so your brain can actually absorb the information.  There is so, so much research on this, so don’t just take my word for it!

Understand the Structure and Format

The SAT and the ACT are very different from probably any other test you’ve taken, and they’re very different from each other.  Know which test you’re taking and understand the strategy behind taking the test. Should you guess or leave questions blank? What if you run out of time?  The answers to these questions really depend on whether you’re taking the SAT or ACT!

Register!

The most obvious point, right?  But registration dates might be earlier than you think.  Check ahead of time to see when you need to register by. Otherwise, you’ll be waiting at least another month to take the next test.

Be Smart with the 24 Hours Prior

This is a big test, so take care of yourself before you take it!  Your mind and body need to me in the right mindset before you sit down for 3+ hours and show your future college what you’ve got.