SAT & ACT Facts
The information you need to know before starting test prep:
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Fact #1Most Test Prep Isn’t Effective
Most SAT and ACT prep options on the market simply don’t work. A recent study reported on by the Wall Street Journal found that traditional test prep boosts average SAT scores by just 30 points and average ACT scores by less than one point. That type of score change makes little to no difference on a college application, which means most test prep fails to do the one thing it is supposed to do.
Anthony-James Green’s related guides: Why Test Prep is Broken, Choosing a Prep System.
Fact #2Great scores don’t get you into college – low scores keep you out.
If you can hit the minimum thresholds required by your target schools, your scores will stop mattering and the rest of your application will get reviewed. If not, your application will never get looked at. Hitting the minimums is your only goal.
Related Guides: How Colleges Use the SAT + ACT, What Scores Do You Need for Your Dream Schools?, The Truth About “Score Optional” Colleges, College Application Checklist
Fact #3Colleges view the SAT and ACT as equals
Colleges don’t prefer one test or the other – and you might be taking the wrong one for your particular style. You should focus your energy on ONE test – the test that’ll give you the best comparative score.
Learn More: The ACT vs. The New SAT
Fact #4 Most people start prepping way too late.
The sooner you begin your test prep, the higher you’ll score and the easier the process will be. Scores are valid for five years, so it’s never too early to knock these test out.
Learn more: When to Start Prepping, Test Prep Calendar
Fact #5Any student is capable of high scores.
The concept of “the bad tester” is a total myth. These aren’t IQ tests – the SAT and ACT test learnable information presented in unfamiliar ways. Learn the material, learn the approach, and you’ll get high scores.
Learn more: The Myth of the “Bad Tester”
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What’s Next?
Now that you have the facts about the ACT and SAT, how do you set yourself up for success? Sign up above to get my step-by-step game plan and unlock higher scores.
Also, feel free to check out my resource library below. WARNING: there’s a TON here, and if you want it organized for your specific needs (and a library link sent to your inbox), I suggest signing up for my mailing list to cut to the chase.
New SAT vs ACT
New SAT
New PSAT
ACT Science
New ACT Essay / Writing Section
SAT Crash Course
ACT Crash Course
SAT Subject Tests
SAT & ACT Dates and Calendar
SAT Questions & Answers
ACT Questions & Answers Understanding Test Prep
Choosing a Prep System
Why Test Prep is Broken
How to Take Practice Tests
Test Prep Calendar
Test Day Preparation
Motivating Your Child
Managing Anxiety
Sleep and Nutrition
Prep Materials and Environment
Learning Disabilities and Extra Time Understanding the College Game
How Colleges Use Scores
What Scores Do You Really Need?
Ultimate Guide to College Applications
Score “Optional” Colleges
College Application Checklist