Making The Most Out of Practice Tests

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 mistakes. Carefully reviewing your mistakes, reworking missed problems, and adjusting your strategies is where students find true progress. Practice tests can tell you a lot about how you can improve, but you do have to properly review them to make the most out of your practice!

Practice tests are essential, but only if you use them wisely. Spread them out, review them well, and you will get the most out of your prep.