There are two ways to see a test. This test is a chance for you to demonstrate how smart you are. This test is an opportunity to develop new skills. No matter how hard it is at first, you’ll be able to improve over time through hard work and practice. Your scores will reflect the […]
Are You Ready to Take the ACT or SAT?
So, you’ve been preparing to take the SAT and/or the ACT. You’ve answered the SAT Question of the day for months. There’s nothing left in The Official SAT Study Guide that you didn’t memorize. But, are you ready to take the test? How do you know? Practice Tests The ACT and SAT are standardized tests, so […]
How to Relieve the Pressure Surrounding the SAT and ACT
The pressure surrounding your performance on the SAT and ACT can feel colossal. It may seem like everything—admissions, scholarships, pride—is riding on a few hours spent huddled over a scantron form. For some students, pressure is motivation. They can harness the energy of the situation to focus and produce their best possible performance. For others, the […]
How to Set a Realistic Target ACT or SAT Score
When we teach courses, we hand out a student profile which asks students about their testing experience and expectations. One of the questions prompts them to list their target score. So many of the responses are the same: 25 on the ACT and 1200 on the SAT. When we ask why they want these scores, […]
Positive Thinking and the ACT
As an ACT instructor, I have heard negative comments in every ACT class I have ever taught:“I am terrible at taking tests.” “I am bad at math.” “I am going to fail miserably.” These words are toxic and quite often become a self-fulfilling prophecy. If you believe you are bad at math, how can you ever […]
Positive Thinking and the SAT
As an SAT instructor, I have heard negative comments in every SAT class I have ever taught: “I am terrible at taking tests.” “I am bad at math.” “I am going to fail miserably.” These words are toxic and quite often become a self-fulfilling prophecy. If you believe you are bad at math, how can […]