Planning for college inevitably includes the question, “SAT or ACT…which one do I take?” There is no easy answer. Most colleges accept both test scores for admissions, and many do not have a preference of one test over the other. So, how do you choose which test is right for you? First, research the admissions requirements for schools on your short list to see if they have preferences, as this may help you decide. Secondly, if you can afford to take both, there’s really no harm in doing so and you’ll gain the option to compare your scores and decide which to submit. Finally, if you find your don’t have the time or money to take both exams, consider the following differences in the tests to see which better suits your testing style. Read the rest of this entry »

Tags: college admission exams, Preparing for the SAT and ACT, SAT vs. ACT
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If you listen closely at school, I guarantee you’ll hear it.  At first it might be a low rumble… maybe a couple of kids outside their lockers talking about prep classes… but the closer it gets to the spring, it will turn into a whispered roar of who’s registered to take them, who is allowed extra time, and who’s been studying for them the most.  At least you’ll know you aren’t the only one thinking non-stop about the SATs and ACTs.

My mom didn’t believe in test prep courses.  She was of the thought that you should prepare yourself as best as you can, so your score is an authentic reflection of your abilities.  On the one hand, I was glad because I really didn’t want to waste an evening in a prep class, but on the other hand I was really worried that I was missing out on an advantage that other kids were getting.

The most important advantage you get out of any test prep class is practice time.  Time to practice a variety of questions and problems over and over again.  Sure, maybe you’ll be taught a “trick” or two about how to best answer difficult questions, but the real advantage is that you are focusing (or should be!) on the test you will be taking for at least a few hours a week.  I truly believe that any of you can gain this advantage yourself and can do plenty well without a course, if you put the time into studying on your own – which is often easier said than done. Read the rest of this entry »

Tags: ACT Prep, Preparing for the SAT and ACT, SAT Prep
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