It’s common knowledge that practice tests are powerful tools to help you prepare for the SAT and ACT, but many students do not use these resources in the most effective way.

Mistake #1: using up all of the official tests right away

Nothing makes my heart sink faster than a new student telling me she’s used up every official practice SAT or ACT on her own. Official tests are valuable and limited resources, and they need to be spread out throughout a student’s test prep journey and properly reviewed. Right now we have only 7 official SATs plus a handful of PSATs and just 4 official ACTs in the current “enhanced” format. Third party tests can be helpful, but they are rarely as realistic as the real thing. The official tests need to be spaced out strategically, used at the right points in your prep, and followed by thorough review.

Mistake #2: not properly reviewing your tests

Too often students take one practice test after another without slowing down to learn from their mistake...

Most students take the SAT in 11th grade, though some are ready as early as 10th if they’ve completed Algebra 2. We typically begin prep a few months before the first test. But some families are eager to start much earlier – sometimes in 9th grade, or even as early as 6th. So what’s the right approach if you want to get a head start?

What not to do
I don’t recommend starting with official SAT or ACT exams. These tests are a limited resource: there are only seven official SATs and four ACTs in their current formats. Younger students often aren’t ready (especially in math) and students are likely to forget much of what they’ve learned unless they consistently practice. There’s also the risk of changes in the test format over time, which could make early prep less helpful.

Build foundational skills
The best thing students can do at a young age is build strong skills in reading, grammar, math, and vocabulary. Develop a regular reading habit with material that’s challenging. This will help ...

The PSAT is a practice version of the SAT. It mirrors the SAT in both format and content, though with fewer of the more complex questions. Because of this similarity, preparing for the PSAT is essentially the same as preparing for the SAT.

If you’re planning to take the SAT, the PSAT is a great way to get comfortable with the test format, pacing, and question types. Since PSAT scores are not shared with colleges, it’s a risk-free way to gain testing experience. And for students who score exceptionally well on the 11th grade PSAT/NMSQT, there’s an opportunity to qualify for the National Merit Scholarship Program.

PSAT Score Ranges and Test Levels

Each version of the PSAT has a different score scale that is slightly lower than the SAT's 400–1600 range:

PSAT 8/9: Taken in 8th and/or 9th grade, this test has a score range of 240–1440. The questions are grade-appropriate and less challenging than later PSATs or the SAT.

PSAT 10 & PSAT/NMSQT: Taken in 10th and/or 11th grade, with a scor...

Parents often ask how to prepare young kids for test prep. Should children start studying for the SAT in 6th grade? That’s not something I recommend! But helping children build strong foundational skills early on is a great way to set them up for future success on the SAT and ACT.

Why is reading important for the standardized tests? The reading sections include complex passages with advanced vocabulary and subtle reasoning. Students need to feel comfortable navigating these types of texts. But reading is also important for the math section, which includes complicated word problems that many students struggle with.

One of the most valuable habits a student can develop is regular reading. I’ve personally seen a drop in reading skills among high school students over the past few decades, with many students opting for electronic means of entertainment instead of books. Like any skill, reading requires consistent practice. Nobody became a great athlete after just a few workouts!

This is a pivotal year for standardized testing. The SAT has now been digital for a full year, and the ACT is transitioning to its new digital format. One thing we’ve learned from past change is that new tests = unpredictable scoring. And shorter tests? Also unpredictable. So when a test is both new and shorter, we can count on one thing: volatility. That’s why it’s crucial to leave room for more than one test date.

For Rising Juniors
If you’re just beginning your test prep journey, summer is the perfect time to start. Without the pressures of schoolwork, you’ll be able to focus on building the strategies and skills needed to excel on the SAT or ACT. Keep in mind that both tests assess math through Algebra 2. If you haven’t yet completed Algebra 2, you’ll want to continue studying into the school year to boost your math score.

For Rising Seniors
If you’ve already taken a test or started prep, summer is your chance to level up and aim for those final score improvements. If you've been t...

With the ACT transitioning to a new format where the science section is optional, a lot of students are wondering whether it’s worth taking at all. Let’s be honest: many students hate the science section. It’s confusing, stressful, and adds extra time to an already long test.

So what is the science section, anyway?
The name is a little misleading. It’s not primarily about testing your science knowledge. It’s more about interpreting data: charts, graphs, and tables that come with short science-related passages. There are a few knowledge-based questions on the current version, and the ACT says they’ll be adding more in the future. But overall, it’s more about critical thinking and data analysis than memorizing facts.

Do colleges care if I skip it?
Right now, we’re not totally sure. Some colleges have said they recommend submitting a science score, but most haven’t made a clear statement yet. If you’re in Florida and going for the Bright Futures scholarship, then yes – you must take it. A...

Every so often, I work with a student who makes a huge jump in their SAT or ACT score. What sets these students apart? It’s not just natural ability—it’s the right combination of effort, strategy, and mindset.

One of the biggest factors is building a strong foundation in reading, grammar, and math. The students who see the biggest improvements take the time to review the math concepts they learned years ago, making sure they’re fresh. Since many schools don’t explicitly teach grammar, high scorers often have to learn those rules from scratch. Putting in the time to strengthen these foundational skills makes a huge difference.

Time is another major factor. I hear plenty of reasons why students struggle to fit test prep into their busy schedules, and I understand that students are very busy. But the students who see the biggest increases make the choice to prioritize test prep. They dedicate time to study techniques, take full-length practice tests, and review concepts. The effort they...

Start Early and Plan Ahead

Last-minute test-taking can be stressful. Instead of relying on a single test date, plan to take the SAT or ACT two to three times, leaving room for retakes if needed. This approach reduces pressure and allows for steady improvement. You’ll also be more comfortable with the exam after you’ve taken it once.

Relax the Night Before

Last minute cramming is ineffective for these tests, so focus on staying relaxed. Avoid staying up late, watching stressful content, or doing anything that could overstimulate your mind. Instead, unwind with a calming activity and set yourself up for a restful night.

Get Plenty of Sleep

A well-rested mind is crucial for optimal performance. Go to bed early, giving yourself time to relax before falling asleep. Avoid overstimulating entertainment the night before the test (so no TikTok, scary movies, etc.) Waking up refreshed will help you stay sharp and focused.

Prepare and Practice Consistently

Start studying at least 6 to 12 w...

A strong vocabulary lays the groundwork for excellent reading comprehension skills, which are essential for boosting your standardized test scores. Building a solid vocabulary is a gradual process, so it’s best to start as early as possible.

Read, Read, Read

In my experience, the best way to enhance your vocabulary is through reading rather than by memorizing long lists of words and definitions. Learning vocabulary in context helps you understand a word’s nuances and makes it easier to recall.

What Should You Read?

Choose reading materials that interest you but also challenge your current reading level. For fiction, consider reading classic literature by authors like Charles Dickens, Edith Wharton, Nathaniel Hawthorne, Jane Austen, or Ernest Hemingway.

For non-fiction, quality periodicals such as The New York Times, Time Magazine, or The Atlantic offer excellent opportunities to strengthen your vocabulary.

How to Memorize Vocabulary

While reading, make it a habit to pause whenev...

Did you know that mastering a handful of grammar rules can significantly impact your SAT or
ACT score? Many students struggle with these concepts, and schools aren’t preparing them
with everything they need for standardized testing. But here’s the good news: grammar is one of
the easiest and quickest areas for students to improve with practice and the right strategies!

I recommend learning all the grammar rules that may be tested and studying them on a
nearly-daily basis until everything is memorized (then transitioning to a weekly review to keep
things fresh). Practicing with real, official tests is also key.

Grammar Topics to Memorize:

● Commas
● Semicolons
● Colons
● Dashes
● Apostrophes
● Subject-verb agreement
● Verb tense
● Pronouns
● Modifiers
● Parallel structure
● Prepositions
● Transitions

Grammar knowledge is tested as part of the SAT Reading & Writing section and the ACT
English section. With proper preparation, this is typically the easiest section to improve on very
quickly. The key is studyin...