Tip #1: Take diagnostic SAT and ACT exams.
We cannot stress enough how important this step is. Taking a diagnostic SAT and ACT is the best way to gauge not only which test is best for your individual strengths but also where you are starting off your prep.
ArborBridge offers free diagnostic SAT and ACT exams for students. Request yours today and find out which test is best for you.
Tip #2: Stay updated on the latest news and announcements in test prep.
These days it seems like there is a new development in test prep every other week. It's hard to keep up with every single headline in the news, but there's no excuse not to be aware of the bigger updates from the College Board and ACT when you're holding a smartphone in your hand! Plus, staying updated only serves to benefit you in your journey through college admissions—even things like cheating scandals can directly affect you (e.g. an upcoming test date in your area may be cancelled due to a test leak).
Luckily, ArborBridge has a solution for you.
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Tip #3: Master those reading skills—you're going to need them.
Considering the importance of reading comprehension in virtually every academic subject, in addition to a section on both the ACT and SAT devoted entirely to testing a student’s reading comprehension ability, it’s imperative that students begin familiarizing themselves with text other than those assigned in class.
Furthermore, SAT Math has boasted more words in word problems than ever, and that's in addition to the Global Conversation passages on the Reading section, which require students to read a long historical passage and then answer questions about the text. And remember, the ACT includes a Science section which is really more of a test of critical reading and logical thinking.
Our suggestion: avoid the shock of these types of passages by adjusting your reading agenda to include more lengthy texts. We suggest spending 2 or more hours per week reading articles from well-established publications such as the New York Times or literary magazines like The Atlantic. You can even try exploring new texts in your local library or downloading a free eBook on a unique topic.
Tip #4: Organize all documentation and other important information if you might require testing accommodations.
No matter when you are planning to take the official test, get started on requesting accommodations as soon as possible.
First and foremost, gather any evidence of a professionally diagnosed disability, as well as further documentation that the disability impacts a student's daily functioning and ability to take standardized tests (preferably an Individualized Education Program, or IEP). Our general recommendation is to work with your school counselor to ensure you are equipped with everything you need to tackle the official exam at the best time for you. It can take up to 4-7 weeks for the College Board or ACT to approve (or deny) a student's request for accommodations on the exam, so make sure you give yourself enough time to collect the necessary information, submit the request, and wait for an official approval from each respective test. That's why winter break is the perfect time to get started if you hope to sit for an official exam this spring/early summer.
Have questions about requesting accommodations on the SAT or the ACT? Don't hesitate to reach out to an ArborBridge test prep expert—we'd love to chat!
Tip #5: Map out your test prep timeline and figure out when you will sit for an official SAT or ACT.
As if we haven't said it enough, use this break to your advantage and at the very least plan out your test prep strategy for the upcoming semester (and beyond). All this takes is simply sitting down one day and mapping out when you will be able to sit for an official exam (make sure to look up official test dates on the College Board site and ACT site), how long you will need to prep, and when you should take a diagnostic exam to get the ball rolling.
Need more individualized advice?
The recommendations above are general suggestions. If you have specific questions, reach out to our experts here. We’re happy to help in any way we can.
About ArborBridge
ArborBridge is the global leader in innovative, digital, one-on-one tutoring. With nearly a decade of experience teaching students online, ArborBridge supports students of all kinds: home schoolers, AP students, test preppers, and more. Our tutors specialize in creating personalized plans and in providing compassionate support for students and families.
