5 Test Prep Tips For ACT And SAT Takers

SAN DIEGO, CA – Dr. Jennifer Winward is the founder and CEO of Winward Academy, as well as a teaching professor at the University of California, San Diego. She shared five tips for preparing for the ACT or SAT, as follows:

When it comes to preparing for college readiness assessments, there’s a lot to figure out. Should students take the ACT, SAT, or both? What score is needed to increase the chances of being accepted into their top schools? Once students have those questions answered, it’s time to get to work. Here are five tips for preparing students to maximize their potential when taking the ACT or SAT.

1. Select resources

No two students learn quite the same way. After all, no two students have the same background, knowledge, or interests. Because a plethora of resources are available, it’s vital for students to consider how they learn best and use resources that support their learning styles. For instance, one student might benefit from reading one of the numerous test preparation guides while another student requires the in-person attention of a private tutor. Before choosing books, boot-camps, prep classes, or online programs, students should determine which learning method will yield the best results.

2. Plan accordingly

Students often wonder how much time is needed to prepare for the ACT or SAT. There is no one right answer. It really depends on the student’s learning style, timing, availability, and needs. For instance, if a student needs an extensive review in all subjects, including grammar, math, reading, science, and essay writing, he or she should plan to study 8 hours a week for 12 weeks. Those who prefer a more intense schedule could devote 20 hours a week for 5 weeks, which typically occurs during summer or holiday breaks. Of course, if there are fewer topics to review, less time is needed. Regardless of the timeline, students can start with a diagnostic or with an SAT practice test or ACT practice test to record a baseline score. Errors from that initial assessment should guide the studying process.

3. Revisit foundations

Often, students who lack complete understanding of a specific subject can test poorly. For example, imagine a teacher trying to explain Concept B. However, the only way to understand Concept B is if the students have already mastered Concept A. But what if they forgot Concept A or never really understood it to begin with? That’s why students should revisit the basics before diving deep into their studies, so they’re able to learn Concept B because they’ve mastered Concept A. It is no secret that math content through Algebra II makes up a significant part of these tests, so a student’s math level is often a good way to determine what foundations should be revisited.

4. Remember mindfulness

Understandably, preparing for the ACT or SAT can create stress and anxiety for students. It’s especially important that they’re mindful and take care of themselves during the process. Winward Academy offers Mindful Moments, free videos featuring consummate professionals who share tips and life advice on everything from nutrition to financial literacy to brain and sleep research. Students can also learn stretches to prevent neck and shoulder soreness while studying.

5. Review mistakes

One of the biggest mistakes students make is signing up for test after test after test without allowing time to learn from their mistakes. Instead, they should review their missed questions and those on which they guessed (even if they guessed correctly). That approach will enable them to gain the knowledge and confidence they need before re-taking the exam. Students who sign up for practice tests every weekend without giving themselves time to learn from their mistakes in between are doing a disservice to themselves and are not likely to see improvements.

One last thing - students perform optimally when they feel energetic. Instead of sitting down for a four-hour timed practice test after a full day of school, students should take practice tests when they’re well-rested and alert.

SUBMITTED FOR PUBLICATION BY: Dr. Jennifer Winward

PHOTO CREDIT: Winward Academy

About the author: Dr. Jennifer Winward, founder and CEO of Winward Academy, is a distinguished teaching professor at the University of California, San Diego and a renowned 18-year veteran of high school tutoring. She has taken her years of experience and her passion for teaching to create an effective, personalized, and fun online tutoring platform that uses both technology and the personal touch that comes with having a teacher in your corner. Contact her at jennifer@winwardacademy.com