Get Ready for Test Day with SAT and ACT Test Prep Resources
Once students reach their sophomore or junior year of high school, it’s time to start preparing for the SAT and ACT tests. These tests are designed to assess whether students are academically prepared for college. Colleges and universities consider test scores when making admissions decisions. Schools and other organizations also look at test scores when they award scholarships.
To do their best on the SAT and ACT tests, students should plan on taking them more than once. They also need to spend plenty of time studying the test material and preparing mentally for test day. Test prep resources are available online, at school, and even in your community, so explore your options thoroughly.
Remember, it’s never too early to start studying. Preparing for state and standardized tests early can help middle and high school students get comfortable with the process, which can prevent test anxiety and boost their performance.
ACT Test Prep Resources
The precursor to the ACT was developed in 1959 to measure how much students were learning in school. It has sections on English, math, reading, and science, as well as an optional writing prompt.
Below is a list of steps you can take and resources you can use to prepare for the ACT.
- Create an ACT Student Web Account and register for an ACT test date.
- Browse the “Test Prep” section of the ACT website to see descriptions of the test, testing tips, and other resources.
- Do some research into the test-day experience so you know what to expect.
- Bookmark or add the ACT Question of the Day to your favorites in your web browser. Access it each day to practice.
- See how the ACT is scored.
- Type in your ZIP code on the Princeton Review or the Kaplan website to search for a free ACT practice test in your area.
- Look over the ACT test-day checklist before you head to your testing location.
SAT Prep Resources
The SAT was the first standardized college admissions test in the United States, originating in 1901. Its sections include writing, critical reading, math, and equating. It also offers 20 subject tests you can opt to take to demonstrate your strengths in certain areas.
Use the following suggestions and resources to get ready for the SAT.
- Create a study plan for the SAT.
- Register for an SAT test date.
- Visit the “SAT Practice” section on the official website and check out the free resources, such as the question of the day, sample practice questions, and a free practice test.
- Take the official SAT practice test, the PSAT, which is offered on two test dates every October.
- Study SAT vocabulary lists.
- Solve SAT math practice problems to sharpen your math skills.
- Review different test-taking approaches.
- Find a free SAT practice test near you on the Princeton Review or the Kaplan website.
- Take a look at your SAT Test Day Checklist on the morning of test day.
More SAT and ACT Test Prep Resources
These resources offer help for both the SAT and ACT, so don’t overlook them!
- Learn the differences between the SAT and the ACT.
- Browse free study guides and practice tests.
- Find more practice tests and watch SAT and ACT videos.
- View in-depth info about the ACT, PSAT, and SAT on the Peterson’s website.
There are also many offline test prep resources you can take advantage of, so make sure to speak with your school counselor to see what’s offered locally and by your school. Once you start preparing for and taking the ACT or SAT, remember to share your experiences with us!