We can procrastinate no longer. June is over. Independence Day is past. It’s time to return our blog and our attention to the SAT. I know, I know—I’m not happy about it, either. We were having so much fun last month, and now we have to refocus and get serious. But I’ll start slow. Rather […]
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 […]
Fun Ways to Prepare for your ACT or SAT This Summer
When schools across the country start to let out for summer break, the last think you want to talk about is your upcoming test, right? We understand! Vacation is an important and well-deserved break. It’s okay if you need a couple of weeks to unwind, but we need to come to a compromise. Going forward […]
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 […]
The Don’ts of SAT and ACT Prep: Part 2
In part 1, I cover important tips for the months and days leading up to the SAT or ACT. Today let’s tackle the Don’ts of test day. Don’t Forget to Sleep Several years ago I taught an SAT class in which one student explained to me why he was there. “I can’t submit my ACT […]
The Don’ts of SAT and ACT Prep: Part 1
Don’t Take It Cold Yesterday I had a phone call from the mom of a rising-junior. “I just want him to take the SAT to see how he does. Then we’ll decide how much study he needs.” Hey, while you’re at it, have him submit a rough draft of his essay with his college application? […]
Using SAT Books for PSAT Prep
I had a call from a parent of a sophomore last week who was worried about the lack of PSAT materials available at his local book store. “Why are there so many SAT books and so few PSAT books?” he asked. As far as I’m concerned, there shouldn’t be any PSAT manuals on the book […]
4 ACT & SAT Prep Goals for Juniors
You can procrastinate no longer, Juniors. If you haven’t already starting to think about ACT and SAT prep, it’s time. We recommend that all juniors take the test at least once in the spring of their junior year, and that they spend two to four months preparing for said test. If you’re running out of […]