Most freshmen and sophomores do NOT need to study for the ACT and SAT! But if you're the kind of student who likes to get going ASAP, here's what you can do right now.
How to Use Diagnostic Testing for the Digital SAT and ACT
You might already know that you need to take a diagnostic test in order to set up a successful test-prep process. But did you know that HOW you take it really matters? I’m explaining what to do and what NOT to do in order to get the best results from your diagnostic SAT or ACT test.
National Merit Scholar Finalist? You Can Still Take Either the SAT or ACT.
If you’re a finalist for the National Merit Scholarship Program, you used to have the SAT forced on you. But these days, you can now validate your qualifying PSAT score with an ACT score! Let me explain how that impacts the testing decisions of high-achieving students.
Score Choice on the SAT and ACT: What Is It?
Score Choice can be confusing…especially for parents who didn’t have it as part of their own college process! So what is Score Choice and how does it affect your decisions about your SAT and ACT scores and college applications? I’m laying out everything you need to know about Score Choice right here.
Got a Low Score on a Practice SAT or ACT?
So you’re chugging towards your target score on the SAT or ACT…when suddenly, you bomb a practice test. What should you do? It’s more about what you SHOULDN’T do, and I’m laying it out for you in this post!
5 Pieces of Info You Need to Create Your SAT/ACT Study Strategy
This post will take you from the basics to some advanced test-prep moves! I’m walking you through the five pieces of information you need for a winning test-prep strategy—and how to put them together into a plan that will open doors at your dream schools.
What to Do if You Didn't Take the June ACT
The June ACT date used to be an absolute must-take. Over the past few years, shifts in the testing schedule have changed that…for SOME students. Which juniors are probably fine if they skipped the June 10 ACT, and what should you do if you’ve already opted to sit it out? Read on to find out.
2023-24 SAT and ACT Test Dates
When can you take the SAT, Digital SAT, and ACT in academic year 2023-24? I’m so glad you asked! Here are all the test dates, as well as registration deadlines, score release dates, and info on how to register.
Why the U.S. Class of 2025 Needs to Start Their Test Prep NOW
I’m not one to scare-monger, but current sophomores living in the US and US Territories are in a very special situation—and most of them need to get their test prep going very, very soon. Read on to find out why that is—and how to get your SAT, ACT, or Digital SAT timeline moving at the right clip.
How to get extended time on the SAT or ACT (if you really need it!)
Extended time can seem like something of a mystery…but having coached several students who REALLY needed it to successful accommodation of their needs by both testing bodies, I’m here to tell you that there are concrete ways to get what you need…if you REALLY need it. Just don’t wait ‘til junior year to get the process going.
Can You Cram for the SAT or ACT?
Cramming doesn't work: the human brain just doesn't work that way. But that doesn't mean you can't take advantage of the time you have left...even if there's not as much of it as you might like!
Self Care during the Long Haul of Test Prep
You can't just cram for a standardized test! Nor can you grind your body and mind into the ground all of junior year and expect to still perform well on the SAT or ACT. Here are some of the top tips I give clients about the mindsets and habits that will keep you on pace for a strong finish.
Why Your SAT/ACT Score Was Lower Than Your Practice Tests (And What to Do about it)
A student wrote to me with a concern that affects a LOT of high schoolers taking the SAT or ACT: what to do when your test score doesn't measure up to your practice scores. In this blog post I give her (and you) my tried and true two-step technique for turning this disappointing situation around!
How To Return to Test Prep after a Break
Breaks from studying are necessary, but getting back in the groove after one can feel like a real obstacle. Here’s how to find the momentum you’ve lost.
How to Use Your Summer Vacation to Get into College
Worried about how to make the most of those crucial summers during the college process, sophomore through junior year? Worry no more—this post lays out a road map to what you need to keep your eye on.
When Should You Take a Break from Test Prep?
New SAT and ACT dates means that college applicants don’t have the enforced summer break that they used to. This makes testing-timeline decisions EVEN MORE COMPLICATED (hey, thanks!). I’m breaking down the factors you need to consider to keep your sanity (and maybe even plan that break in there after all).
Does the class of 2022 need the SAT or ACT?
The class of 2021 has had their college process upended by Covid-19—including schools going temporarily (or even permanently) test-optional. But what about the class of 2022? If you’re a current Junior, you probably have some questions about testing and college applications in the age of coronavirus—and lucky for you, I’ve got expert answers.
SAT and ACT Test Dates, 2022-2023
If you’re a high school sophomore or junior wondering when you should sign up for your first standardized test sitting, look no further: this post lists out all ACT and SAT test dates for the 2022-23 season. Whether you’re an international student or one based in America, whether you’re taking the SAT or the ACT, this post has got the dates you need, as well as info on how to register for each test.
How to Actually Help Your Kid When She's Applying to Colleges
Parents, this one's for you! Don't drown in all the insanity that comes with the college process—be a rock of sanity instead. Here's how.
When Should I Schedule My First ACT? 2022 Edition
Timing is KEY when it comes to the ACT: take it too soon and you might not have completed all the high school coursework you need for the test—but take it too late and you might be risking a low score with no chance to re-take it. Plus, the way the ACT is administered has changed recently, so the scheduling calculus is different in 2022 from previous years. Don’t worry, though: I’ve got your back with this step-by-step guide to figuring out what test dates are right for YOU.
