In this section, we’ll address the two of the most common questions we get asked about SAT/ACTs tests.
Student Question
“My schedule is already packed with school, sports, and extracurriculars. How do I fit in test prep?”
Our Response
“That’s a great question, and we often hear it. The key is to make test prep part of your routine without becoming overwhelmed. Instead of cramming, we recommend short, consistent study sessions—about 20-30 minutes a few times a week. This is why we recommend beginning test prep in the Freshman year already, and working on small sections. Then, at 12 weeks before the test, begin full test prep, scheduling time with a tutor or self-prep with focus.
- Many students start with a practice test to identify weak areas, then focus on those sections in shorter, targeted study sessions.
- We also suggest using small pockets of time, like reviewing vocabulary while commuting or doing practice questions during breaks.
- Consider a routine of pulling an ACT or SAT question of the day as a fun family activity to build a daily practice routine. You can begin this as early as your freshman year.”
Parent Question
“Test prep programs are expensive. Is it really worth the investment?”
Our response
“We completely understand—that’s a valid concern. Let’s look at it this way: A higher ACT or SAT score can lead to thousands of dollars in college scholarships. In fact, even a small score improvement can mean the difference between paying full tuition and getting significant financial aid.
While premium test prep programs can be costly, there are also free resources. We recommend finding a method that fits your budget while giving your child the best chance of success.”
