How to Prep for the ACT and SAT
How to prep for both the ACT and SAT:
Helpful tips and strategies that every test-taker should know to prepare for the SAT and ACT exams.
1. Familiarize Yourself with the Details
Understanding the test structure, instructions and the type of questions you will be asked will save you valuable time on test day. You can find detailed instructions for the SAT and ACT tests online. And it’s important to understand the differences between the SAT and ACT to determine which test is a better fit for you.
2. Practice
Find a test date for your exam of choice that will allow you 3-6 months to prep.
If your school has school-day testing, you already know your test date. Mark it on your calendar.
Set aside time to take real, full-length practice tests. Use a timer to get accustomed to the time limits, and try to pace yourself so you have enough time to get to all the questions. After finishing each test, check your answers and devote ample time to reviewing the questions you got wrong.
Set your target score.
Choose 3 or more colleges where you plan to apply.
Find the middle score ranges of the most recent entering class.
Set a goal score that falls within those ranges.
If you’re planning to take the ACT test, go to ACT.org and take a full-length practice test, including the essay. The site also has plenty of sample questions to give you an idea of what to expect.
3. Start Reading
In addition to online resources, there are books, complete with full practice tests based on actual exams from past years that can help you study. The ACT test offers an official prep book. The College Board also offers an extensive collection of SAT prep books. Stumped on what to buy? Ask your high school counselor for a recommendation.
4. Get to Class or Tutoring
If you find it hard to study on your own, you may want to consider taking a test prep class. Some schools offer remote or in-person programs or study groups, and you may also be able to find a privately run prep course in your area. When you don’t understand an answer, having an instructor by your side to explain it can be a big help.
If you want to work on your skills at your own pace or feel like you’d reap more rewards from personal attention, a tutor may be a better choice for you. Tutors are able to focus on exactly what you need to understand to excel, but this type of prep can be expensive.
5. Work Your Memory
The SAT exam lists some formulas for you at the front of each math section, but the ACT exam does not, so it’s important that you know all basic math formulas and concepts. With enough practice problems, you should be able memorize them, which can help save you time during the actual test.
6. Increase Your Vocabulary
On top of taking practice tests, you should also practice reading challenging books and articles. The College Board publishes a list of suggested reading that could serve you well on reading comprehension passages. When you come across an unfamiliar word, highlight or underline it, then look it up. This will pay dividends for your whole life, not just when it comes to a test score.
7. Study on the Move
There are several SAT and ACT prep apps available. With lessons in the palm of your hand, you can track your progress and prepare for the test wherever you go.
8. Set a date for the other exam about a month after you take the first one.
Because the SAT and ACT test essentially have the same content, you'll only need a month to learn test-specific content (like ACT Science or SAT No-Calculator Math strategies.
Don't put off taking the 2nd test too long—you want to build on all the great prep you did for the first exam.
Fortunately, either the SAT or ACT is offered every other month (except January).
If you give yourself plenty of time to study and heed some of these tips, you’ll be prepared to face the tests head-on.
In general, the ideal timing to prep for the ACT or SAT Tests is 3 months prior to the test date .
Good Luck!