(BiM)–The Chronicles

Can I study for College readiness tests?

Many people believe that you cannot study for test like the SAT and ACT. This however is a fallacy. Like any test you can prepare for it.

The SAT and ACT are supposed to be tests that you cannot study for. They are supposed to test for a person aptitude in a subject. But sometimes you will have to know previous knowledge to demonstrate your aptitude.

This is why your classes matter. You should try to take rigorous classes instead of easier one. If your schedule permits, try to take more challenging English and Math classes. Take classes with good teachers. If you’ve heard that the AP teacher is not very good but the CP teacher is, you might want to take the class with the better teacher.

You want to be as learned as possible when you take these tests. The more you know about a subject the better off you are. AP and CP classes help you learn the skills needed to excel on test such as the ACT and SAT.

Your library is also another important resource. See if your library has SAT and ACT prep books. These books are extremely valuable. Check both your school and public library. Bookstores like borders and Barnes and nobles also have test prep book but they cost money. Don’t be afraid to ask your teacher to see if they have prep books. They might have some older books that can help you.

You can also get sample questions and tests online. The College Board has an SAT Question of the Day. The ETS has a sample TOEFL questions as well. Go and look up old test question and essay prompts. They will help you get a feel for the test.

Online resources:
SAT
http://www.sparknotes.com/testprep/newsat/
http://www.ivybound.net/FHpsat.html
http://encarta.msn.com/encnet/Features/Columns/Default.aspx?article=ErrorsThatArent
http://www.crushthetest.com/ http://www.ivybound.net/FHmath.html
http://education.yahoo.com/college/math_problem/

ACT
http://www.actstudent.org/sampletest/index.html
http://www.sparknotes.com/testprep/act/
http://www.ivybound.net/FHpsat.html
http://encarta.msn.com/encnet/Features/Columns/Default.aspx?article=ErrorsThatArent

TOEFL
http://www.ivybound.net/FHpsat.html
http://encomium.com/
http://home.earthlink.net/~eslstudent/testing/TOEFL.html

There are also full-blown practice tests. Tests like PSAT are like pre-test that give you a hand on feel for the real thing. Your school or other schools in the area might offer practice SAT and ACT tests as well. Check with your counseling office to see if this is true.

There are also SAT, ACT, and TOEFL prep courses and programs. Though effective, these are expensive.

More specific study tools and knowledge will be provided on the next article How to Prepare for the SAT and ACT (Part 2)

How to Prepare for the SAT and ACT (Part 3)