With standardized testing season beginning very soon (the next registration date for the ACT is August 9th for the test date September 14!) Studying is ramping up for those looking to take the tests in the beginning of the school year and apply for early admission. Check out our Instagram and LinkedIn posts about helpful sites to utilize for your studies!
The SAT and ACT have many similarities and almost as many distinguished differences (covered in a previous blog post) to take note of. But what about when testing day finally arrives? What are some of these comminalities that might be helpful to note when studying for both, and which specifics are essential to know for individual tests? Let's take a look.
Beginning with the SAT, the key points to focus on will be Algebra and Data-Analysis for the math portion, and evidence-based reading for the reading and writing section. The SAT places a strong emphasis on algebra and data analysis over calculus or statistics. There is also a section of the test where you won't be allowed a calculator, so practice doing equations on paper.
For the Reading section, practice finding evidence in the passages to support your answers. Many questions will be referring back to a specific paragraph or sentence and rely on you being able to provide context. Some answers will be all different sentences from the article or story you will read. Pay attention to the context of vocabulary-in-context questions when answering.
In the ACT, there is a science section of the test not found in the SAT that will measure your critical thinking skills. Practice interpreting graphs, charts, and data tables and focus on scientific reasoning rather than specific science knowledge. In the math section, focus particularly on trigonometry and advanced algebra, but be comfortable with a range of math topics. These questions are typically more in-depth than the SAT, and you are allowed a calculator for the whole section. Practice using your calculator efficiently.
One key difference in the ACT is that you will have less time. The ACT has a faster pace, so practice working quickly and efficiently. Focus on developing strategies for answering questions more rapidly, but be sure to not leave any test answer blank.
Did you know we also offer ACT and SAT help with our packages for our students? Using many of the same methods as these sites, but in addition we help you with your essays, interview prep, college applications, financial aid, and much more! Set up a meeting with our consultants today!
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