Five Tips for Preparing for Standardized Exams
Some Generic Advice
By Matthew Bullington
Let’s face it, standardized exams are incredibly important when it comes to the college application process. A few points difference on the ACT or SAT can easily translate into the difference between rejection or acceptance at a university, or between paying “retail” value for your education and receiving a full scholarship. The importance of these t
ests is even greater for homeschoolers, as many universities will place a greater weight on your test scores, and discount your reported grades. If you are interested in getting into college, and especially if you would like to not pay “sticker price,” preparation for these exams is absolutely essential. So here are a few tips and pointers for you to keep in mind when preparing for standardized exam.
Let me explain this briefly. Standardized exams such as the ACT and SAT are really tests to see how well you take the ACT and SAT. They gauge test-taking abilities, not your knowledge on a subject. A great example of this is the ACT Science Reasoning section, which requires virtually no knowledge of science whatsoever! I know plenty of individuals who are extremely talented in a subject whose test grade does not in any way reflect that ability, and other individuals whose highest score are in the subjects they are weakest in. Keep that in mind when approaching these exams! At the same time, having knowledge on a subject will benefit you when it comes to the test, especially in math and English grammar.
Few things are more intimidating than trying to get a perfect score on a test. Instead of trying for that perfect 36 or 2400, instead do some research and identify what score (or range of scores) you will need for each university you are considering. Take a practice test to evaluate where you are, and then check the university’s website or talk with an admissions counselor to determine what scores are needed to be admitted and to receive scholarships. Some schools offer scholarships automatically for students with certain scores. This makes the preparation part much easier, when you can translate an improvement in your scores directly into admission to a university or, better yet, a certain dollar amount of scholarships. Say, for example, that if you increase your score from a 27 to a 29 you will receive a $4,000 annual scholarship. How hard are you willing to work for $16,000?
If that isn’t obvious to you by now, go back and read the first two paragraphs. The vast majority of individuals will have to actively prepare for these exams in order to perform well. In addition, more and more students are preparing for the exams through the use of books, online materials , classes, and even private tutors. This means that taking the ACT or SAT without any practice puts you at a greater disadvantage than it would have a few years ago, and the gap is continuing to widen.
The earlier you start, the less intimidating it will be. Take a practice test, and set a goal for the score you are trying for. Seek out resources to use, and schedule yourself so that you are pracicing daily for the exam. Work sample problems and read materials on study habits. One of the most important steps is to take several practice tests (the more the better), practicing with time constraints and distractions (you will most likely not have a perfect testing environment on the day of the test, so don’t accustom yourself to one).
Now is better than never. Even if you didn’t start preparing months beforehand, change that habit now and start preparing. Don’t put it off any longer. You would be surprised at what even a short period of active preparation will do, even if it is just a few days. Anything that gives you an idea of what to expect once you step into that room is beneficial, and can make the difference in a college application acceptance or scholarship dollars. Start now!
Matthew
