Test Prep Advice and Tips

Jul 4
16:43

2013

Tim J Roberts

Tim J Roberts

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No preference is given to either the ACT or the SAT, so you can choose the one that suits you best. These are some good tips you can put to use for your test preparation.

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If you are just starting to prepare for your college entrance exams,Test Prep Advice and Tips Articles then there are many things that you need to think about.  You will have chosen to take either the ACT or the SAT, both of which are now accepted at most colleges across the United States.  Previously, the ACT was only accepted in certain parts of the country, but now any college that looks at SAT scores will also consider the ACT.  No preference is given to either test, so you can choose the one that is most suited to you.  This needs to be your decision -  don’t feel pressured to take one of the tests just because it is the one your friends are doing.

  • Managing the stress is one of the things that you will need to learn how to do.  Yes, the college entrance exams are important, but a low score is not the end of the world.  You have the option of retaking the test as many times as you want before submitting your college application and only the highest score needs to be given.  Also, colleges do not decide purely on the exam scores – many other factors will be taken into consideration.  If the rest of your application is good, then a low ACT or SAT score will not necessarily mean that you are rejected.

  • Do as much practice as you can.  The more questions you do, the more familiar you will become with the style and how to answer them.  You will also learn what each section of the paper is asking and this is particularly important with the ACT, as the sections are timed.  If you can learn the instructions at the beginning, you won’t need to use any of the time to read them again and can simply start on the questions.

  • Answer all of the questions.  The ACT does not impose a penalty for incorrect answers, so even if you are not sure, it is best to have a go.  Use the process of elimination method to improve your chances of guessing the correct answer.  On each question, there will be at least one option that is obviously wrong.  If you can identify these, you will then have a better chance of getting another mark.

  • If you are doing the optional essay section, you should be aware that the examiners are looking to see whether you can write coherently and in a logical manner.  This means that it is worth spending a few minutes planning your essay to ensure that it will make sense.  Then you should write it, ensuring that you have a clear structure, including an introduction and a conclusion.

  • The earlier you start your preparation, the more benefit you will receive from it.  Think about which test you are going to take during your sophomore year and then begin studying for it that summer.  The ACT may be best for you if your strengths are science and math, while the SAT will probably be better for those who prefer English.

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