14 best act sat preps

ACT and SAT prep refers to the process of preparing for standardized college admissions tests, namely the ACT (American College Testing) and SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test). These tests are widely used by colleges and universities in the United States as part of their admissions process. Here is some information related to ACT and SAT prep:

  1. Purpose: The primary purpose of ACT and SAT tests is to assess a student's readiness for college and provide colleges with a standardized measure to compare the academic abilities of applicants. These tests evaluate a student's knowledge and skills in subjects like mathematics, science, reading, and writing.

  2. Content: Both the ACT and SAT include multiple-choice questions and an optional essay section. However, the content and structure of the two tests differ somewhat. The ACT includes sections on English, Math, Reading, and Science, while the SAT has sections on Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (which includes reading and writing/grammar) and Math.

  3. Mathematics: The math sections of both tests assess a range of math topics, including algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and statistics. Preparing for the math sections typically involves reviewing math concepts, practicing problem-solving, and learning test-taking strategies.

  4. Science (ACT): The ACT includes a separate Science section that assesses a student's ability to interpret and analyze scientific data and concepts. It does not require specific prior knowledge of science subjects but focuses on critical thinking and data interpretation skills.

  5. Books and Resources: Numerous books and online resources are available for ACT and SAT prep. These resources often include practice tests, study guides, and strategies for tackling different question types. Some popular prep books include "The Official ACT Prep Guide" and "The Official SAT Study Guide."

  6. Practice Tests: Taking practice tests is a crucial part of ACT and SAT prep. These tests help students become familiar with the format and types of questions they will encounter on the actual exams. Many prep books and online platforms offer practice tests.

  7. Test Prep Courses: Some students choose to enroll in test prep courses, which can be in-person or online. These courses are led by experienced instructors and provide structured preparation, feedback, and additional study materials.

  8. Self-Study: Many students opt for self-study for ACT and SAT prep. This approach involves using prep books, online resources, and practice tests to review content and develop test-taking strategies at their own pace.

  9. Timing and Strategies: ACT and SAT tests are timed, and effective time management is crucial. Students often learn strategies for pacing themselves during the test to ensure they have enough time for all sections.

  10. Optional Essay: While the essay section is optional for both tests, some colleges require it for admission. Students who choose to take the essay should practice writing essays that demonstrate their analytical and argumentative skills.

Effective preparation for the ACT and SAT tests can significantly impact a student's performance and college admission prospects.Many students start their prep well in advance of the test date to build confidence and achieve their target scores. It's essential to choose a prep method that aligns with your learning style and goals.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best act sat preps on the market
  

SAT IntelliPREP: Effective Preparatory Practices to Ace the SAT

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The College Checklist Podcast: College Admissions, Financial Aid, Scholarships, Test Prep, and more...

Vocabulary Words Brilliance: Learn How to Quickly and Creatively Memorize and Remember English Dictionary Vocab Words for SAT, ACT, & GRE Test Prep It: Better Memory Now

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Better Vocabulary in 30 Minutes a Day: Better English Series

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The No-BS Guide to English Vocabulary and Effective Communication: An Interactive Road-Map to Learning Words, Fixing Spellings, and Building Fluent Pronunciation Skills Forever

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ACT Prep Black Book: The Most Effective ACT Strategies Ever Published

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The Complete Guide to ACT English, Fourth Edition

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The Official ACT Prep Guide 2021-2022, (Book + 6 Practice Tests + Bonus Online Content)

SAT Prep Black Book: The Most Effective SAT Strategies Ever Published

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Princeton Review ACT Premium Prep, 2020: 8 Practice Tests + Content Review + Strategies (College Test Preparation)

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The Official Beginner's Guide for ACT 2020-2021

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Product features

Getting Plenty of Practice

Although the best way to prepare for the ACT is to take rigorous high school classes and do well in them, it also helps to know the test format and types of questions that will be asked so that there are no surprises on test day. Your level of comfort in taking the ACT also plays an important role in how well you will do, and the best way to build that confidence is by taking practice tests.

Practice tests help you mentally prepare for the ACT and identify strengths and areas of needed improvement that should be addressed in order to improve test performance. For example, if time runs out while you're taking a practice test, then you need to work on pacing. Practice tests also are good indicators of areas where you excel and which subject areas may need further study before taking the ACT.

Take Note

Write notes in the practice test to highlight key details, or work out a problem on paper.

Stay in the Lines

Mark answers on the answer sheet carefully, and write the essay neatly and in the correct place in the practice test (essay must be written using a soft-lead pencil).

Pick One

Make sure only one answer is marked on the answer sheet for each question and that there are no stray marks.

Check Your Math

Check math calculations using scratch paper or the permitted calculator.

Make a Guess

Answer all the questions on the answer sheet—using logic to eliminate incorrect answer choices if unsure, since you will not be penalized for guessing on the test.

Divide and Conquer

Divide the available time per section by the number of questions (if you have 60 minutes to complete 60 math questions, then plan to spend one minute on each question). If you're taking the writing test, divide your time into planning, writing, and then revising the essay.

Get a Head Start

Review the directions ahead of time to prevent wasting time during the actual test.

Read with Care

Read each question carefully to avoid preventable errors.

Circle Back

Tackle the easy questions first and then go back to the more difficult questions if time allows (mark a skipped question on the practice test, not the answer sheet, to quickly refer back later).

Practice Tests for the SAT, 2021: Extra Prep to Help Achieve an Excellent Score (College Test Preparation)

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Reading and Writing Prep for the SAT & ACT, 2nd Edition: 600+ Practice Questions with Complete Answer Explanations (College Test Preparation)

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The Official ACT Mathematics Guide

Wiley

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Product features

Getting Plenty of Practice

Although the best way to prepare for the ACT is to take rigorous high school classes and do well in them, it also helps to know the test format and types of questions that will be asked so that there are no surprises on test day. Your level of comfort in taking the ACT also plays an important role in how well you will do, and the best way to build that confidence is by taking practice tests.

Practice tests help you mentally prepare for the ACT and identify strengths and areas of needed improvement that should be addressed in order to improve test performance. For example, if time runs out while you're taking a practice test, then you need to work on pacing. Practice tests also are good indicators of areas where you excel and which subject areas may need further study before taking the ACT.

Take Note

Write notes in the practice test to highlight key details, or work out a problem on paper.

Stay in the Lines

Mark answers on the answer sheet carefully, and write the essay neatly and in the correct place in the practice test (essay must be written using a soft-lead pencil).

Pick One

Make sure only one answer is marked on the answer sheet for each question and that there are no stray marks.

Check Your Math

Check math calculations using scratch paper or the permitted calculator.

Make a Guess

Answer all the questions on the answer sheet—using logic to eliminate incorrect answer choices if unsure, since you will not be penalized for guessing on the test.

Divide and Conquer

Divide the available time per section by the number of questions (if you have 60 minutes to complete 60 math questions, then plan to spend one minute on each question). If you're taking the writing test, divide your time into planning, writing, and then revising the essay.

Get a Head Start

Review the directions ahead of time to prevent wasting time during the actual test.

Read with Care

Read each question carefully to avoid preventable errors.

Circle Back

Tackle the easy questions first and then go back to the more difficult questions if time allows (mark a skipped question on the practice test, not the answer sheet, to quickly refer back later).

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