Successfully preparing for the SAT and ACT can set you on the path to achieving your college dreams. With the right approach and resources, you can navigate these important exams confidently. Here are some essential tips on how to prepare effectively and reach your goal scores.
Start early and plan ahead
Your preparation should start in 10th grade or earlier. This gives you plenty of prep time to get familiar with the types of questions and test formats. Developing strong study habits and managing your time effectively is crucial for success. Knowing the structure and timing of each section helps you become comfortable with the test, saving valuable time on exam day.
Take preliminary tests
Your school may offer the PSAT/NMSQT, PSAT 10, or PSAT 8/9. These preliminary tests mirror the SAT in format and question type, making them excellent practice tools. The PSAT/NMSQT, in particular, helps identify areas needing improvement and can qualify you for scholarships such as the National Merit Scholarship Program, making it a valuable resource in your preparation journey.
Utilize official prep resources
The College Board offers a wealth of resources for SAT and ACT prep. Take advantage of their downloadable paper (nonadaptive) practice tests and full-length practice tests to experience the actual testing environment. These tests are invaluable for understanding the time limits and the structure of the math sections and other parts of the test.
Set realistic score goals
Determine your composite score goal based on the requirements of your dream school. Use diagnostic tests to gauge your starting point and measure your progress. Your school counselor can help you set achievable score goals and develop a study schedule. Knowing the median standardized test scores of your target colleges can help you understand how much you need to improve.
Create a study schedule
A well-structured study schedule can help you allocate sufficient study time to each section of the test. Allocate specific hours each week for study sessions, focusing on different types of questions each time. Consistency is key, so maintain regular study habits to retain information and improve your practice test scores. This is another crucial part of knowing how to prepare for the SAT & ACT.
Practice in a realistic testing environment
When you take the practice tests, mimic the testing environment Find a quiet space, free of distractions, and stick to the same time limits as the actual test. This practice will help you become comfortable with the test format and reduce anxiety on test day. Set a timer to get accustomed to the required test pace.
Know the test format
Understanding the structure and timing of the SAT and ACT tests is essential. For the SAT, familiarize yourself with the two main sections: Math and Evidence-Based Reading and Writing. For the ACT, understand that you will receive a composite score between 1 and 36 after completing tests in English, Mathematics, Reading, and Science. Knowing the format helps you navigate the test more effectively.
Seek guidance from school counselors
School counselors can provide valuable insights and support during your test preparation. They can help you understand the standardized test score requirements for your target schools and recommend prep resources tailored to your needs. Additionally, they can help you plan your test-taking schedule to avoid conflicts with other academic responsibilities.
Consider extra time options
If you have documented learning disabilities or other conditions that affect your test performance, you might be eligible for extra-time accommodations. Discuss it with your school counselor well in advance to understand the process and requirements.
Choose between SAT and ACT
How should students approach the decision to take the SAT or the ACT? It’s important to understand the differences between the tests, and take practice tests for both to see which one suits you better. Some students perform better on one test over the other, so choosing the right one can play a crucial role in your standardized test preparation.
Take advantage of practice resources
Practice tests are crucial for identifying strengths and weaknesses. Use resources like the College Board’s website or your school’s library to find free practice exams. These tests help you manage your time wisely and become familiar with the test format. Reviewing your answers and understanding your mistakes is vital for improvement.
Engage in challenging courses
Enroll in challenging courses throughout high school to build a strong academic foundation. Advanced classes can improve your critical thinking skills and better prepare you for the rigors of standardized tests for college. Your performance in these courses can also enhance your college application.
Focus on vocabulary and strategies
Studying vocabulary can improve your reading comprehension scores. Make a list of SAT words and review them daily. Additionally, learning test strategies like time management skills, guessing techniques and the process of elimination can help you tackle difficult questions more efficiently.
Take care of yourself
Remember to balance your study time with relaxation and self-care. Adequate sleep, regular exercise, and healthy eating are crucial for maintaining your focus and energy levels. Avoid cramming the night before the test, and ensure you’re well-rested on the test day. Being well-prepared and relaxed can significantly impact your performance.
Stay organized for test day
Prepare everything you need for the test the night before. Lay out your admission ticket, acceptable photo ID, calculator, No. 2 pencils, and erasers. Make sure you know the location of your test center and plan your route to arrive early. Bringing a snack can help you stay focused during breaks.
Stay consistent with prep time
By following these strategies on how to prepare for the SAT and ACT, you can effectively improve your standardized test scores and strengthen your college application. With dedication and the right resources, you’ll be well on your way to reaching your dream school.
For personalized advising and support throughout the college admissions process, consider partnering with Prepory. Our comprehensive admissions counseling program is designed to empower you to succeed and achieve your academic goals.
Consistency in your prep time is crucial. At Prepory, we help students build a personalized SAT study plan based on their PSAT scores. Our coaches also direct students to free resources proven to improve SAT scores, ensuring that your study sessions are effective and targeted. Whether using an online test prep program, practice tests, or working with a tutor, stick to your study schedule. Regular and focused study sessions will yield better results than sporadic cramming. These consistent efforts are key in preparing for SAT & ACT.
By following these strategies on how to prepare for the SAT and ACT, you can effectively improve your standardized test scores and strengthen your college application. With dedication and the right resources, you’ll be well on your way to reaching your dream school.
For personalized advising and support throughout the college admissions process, consider partnering with Prepory. Our comprehensive admissions counseling program is designed to empower you to succeed and achieve your academic goals.
FAQs about SAT and ACT test-taking
01
Which standardized test do you take to prepare for the ACT?
To prepare for the ACT, you can take the PreACT, which is designed to give students practice with the format and types of questions found on the ACT. The PreACT helps students understand their strengths and areas for improvement before taking the actual ACT.
02
How to study for the SAT and ACT
Studying for the SAT and ACT involves several steps:
03
What is the difference between ACT and SAT?
The ACT and SAT are both standardized tests for college admissions, but they have some differences:
04
When do you take the SAT and ACT?
Most students take the SAT and ACT during their junior and/or senior year of high school. It’s common to take these tests multiple times to improve scores. Key test dates are typically in the fall and spring. It’s best to check specific test dates and registration deadlines on the College Board and ACT websites.
05
What are good ACT and SAT scores?
Good ACT and SAT scores depend on the colleges you are applying to. Generally:
ACT: A composite score of 21 is the national average. Scores of 30 and above are considered excellent and can improve admission chances to highly selective colleges.
SAT: The national average is a score of around 1050. Scores above 1300 are considered very good, and scores of 1400 or higher are excellent and competitive for top-tier colleges.
06
What is the difference between the old and new SAT?
The new SAT, launched in a digital format through the Bluebook app, introduces several significant changes aimed at enhancing accessibility and relevance. Unlike the old SAT, which was paper-based and lasted three hours, the new SAT is two hours and 14 minutes long and includes only two sections: Math and a combined Reading/Writing section. The test features shorter reading passages and provides digital tools such as a countdown clock, question flagging, a digital reference sheet, and a built-in graphing calculator for all Math questions.
Additionally, the test is adaptive, adjusting the difficulty of questions based on the test-taker’s performance. Scores are calculated using an algorithm that accounts for question difficulty. Students also benefit from quicker score reports, personalized college and career guidance, and access to official digital practice exams.
Despite these changes, some aspects of the SAT remain unchanged. Students still need to commit to a structured SAT study plan to achieve their best scores. Resources like SAT test prep books and the Bluebook app’s digital practice exams remain essential for thorough preparation.
These tools provide in-depth explanations of key concepts and offer adaptive practice questions, helping students familiarize themselves with the new test format and improve their performance. If you want to learn more about the changes we’ve written an article that has more details about the changes.
