You’ve studied for months, and now the big day is finally here: you’re about to take the Digital SAT, SAT or the ACT. But all of that hard prep work will be wasted effort if you show up to the testing room without the supplies you need to rock the test! Never fear: I’ve made you a checklist of the 7-9 essential items you should bring with you when you take the ACT or SAT, now with updated info on what you should bring to the Digital SAT, too.
SAT and ACT: Strategy vs. Content Sections
Knowing which sections of the ACT and SAT are content sections and which are strategy sections will help you target your test prep, hit your score goals, and open the door to that dream school!
Math Etiquette VI: Math...Vocabulary?
Math is all numbers, right? Nope. Reading is fundamental—even when we're talking the fundamentals of math, like we do in math etiquette. In this last post of my “Math Etiquette” series, I’ll gloss some key terms for you!
Your 5-Step Plan to Beat the Sophomore Slump
Feeling doomy and gloomy as you head in to tenth grade? With my five tips, you can turn Sophomore year from a bummer into an asset, AND start making yourself a better candidate for college down the line.
Math Etiquette V: Divide and Conquer
Division doesn't have to get you down—not when you do it the math etiquette way! Here are three ways of understanding division that will let you take on No Calculator Math (or any math section!) with confidence and accuracy.
What's New on the Common App?: 2023-2024 edition
Can you feel the magic in the air? Today’s the day that the Common App officially opens for business! Some applicants may not realize that the Common App has changed since last year. Don't sweat if that's you—this week's free blog post is here to explain what's different, and how those differences should affect YOUR approach to the application.
Multiplication to Know for SAT No-Calculator Math (Math Etiquette IV)
Yes, I have favorite multiplication tricks. And after you realize how much time and how many errors they can save you on the SAT and ACT, so will you!
Affirmative Action Supreme Court Decision: Does the Class of 2025 Have to Take the SAT or ACT?
You’ve surely heard the huge college admissions news by now: no more race-conscious affirmative action. Considering this change, should the Class of 2025 and younger plan on taking the SAT and ACT?
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.
Should I Use the Coalition App or the Common App?
If you’re a high school Senior (or younger), the Common App and Coalition App can save you a TON of time on your college applications. But what are the differences between these two options, exactly—and which is the better fit for YOU? This blog post brings you the answers.
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.
Fractions on the SAT and ACT (Math Etiquette III)
Sure, you know how to cross-multiply (or, uh...do you?). But do you really GET fractions? Save time, stress, and effort on the SAT and ACT with my fraction guide.
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.
Which Facts to Memorize for the SAT No-Calculator Math (Math Etiquette II)
Part 2 of my Math Etiquette series gets down to brass tacks. It’s time for me to dish: exactly which math facts you need to memorize for the SAT and ACT.
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.
What to Learn for the SAT No-Calculator Math Section (Math Etiquette I)
What's math etiquette? Well, like social etiquette, it helps you navigate problems confidently and gracefully...except these problems are math problems! It's also a crucial part of getting prepared for the new SAT No-Calculator Math section. Here's the run-down.
How to Break Down Every SAT and ACT Section
Struggling to stay calm as you prep for the SAT or ACT? Test prep expert Kristina Semos shows you how to make a big-picture study plan for a given exam section—and walks you through two detailed examples, study plans for the ACT Science and SAT No-Calculator Math Sections.
How to Choose the Right AP Classes for YOU
AP classes are exactly what your dream school wants to see on your transcript. Learn which ones will show off your skills best today:
The Digital SAT (dSAT): Everything You Need to Know!
The age of the new, Digital SAT is upon us (as of March 11, 2023)! This post is your one-stop guide to every question you have about the dSAT, from WHO will take the digital version WHEN, to WHAT will be on the test, to HOW you’ll take it.
How to Beat Test Anxiety: Tips for Perfectionists AND Slackers
Test anxiety can make it hard to get the SAT or ACT score you deserve on test day…or even make it hard to do the work that will get you the score you’re capable of! With these expert strategies that have worked for my students, I’ll help you get out of your own way.
