A Conversation about ACT/SAT Test Prep and Navigating the College Admissions Journey
Expert Advice for a Stress-Free College Application Process
It's no secret that junior year can be a whirlwind of academic pressure, especially with the ACT and SAT looming large. But what are students really worried about when it comes to these college admissions tests?
I'm Stephanie Mitchell, a consultant here at TBG. I recently talked with a high school junior who felt understandably stressed about the upcoming ACT and SAT. As I listened to Sarah’s concerns, I realized many students share the same anxieties. So, I thought I'd share our conversation and offer encouragement on test prep and the college process in general.
I hope you find my conversation with Sarah helpful. If you are a high school student or a parent looking for help with the college process please contact us for expert guidance in your journey.
Overwhelmed and Worried About Time
Sarah began by expressing her general overwhelm. "There's just so much to know," she said, "and I'm worried about running out of time on the test. What if I get stuck on one question and miss out on easier ones later?"
I reassured Sarah that time management is a common concern, and that's why it's so important to familiarize yourself with the format of each test and practice pacing yourself. "Take those practice tests like they're the real deal," I advised. "This will help you get comfortable with the timing and identify any areas where you tend to slow down. And remember, it's okay to skip a question and come back to it later if you're stuck."
ACT or SAT?
When Sarah asked about choosing between the ACT and SAT, I advised her to take a practice test of each. "Both tests are widely accepted by colleges," I explained. That said, I wanted to give Sarah a more in-depth sense of these two tests and for that, I reached out to Whitney Longworth.
Whitney Longworth is the director of business development at Summit Educational Group and a trusted colleague. I asked her to weigh in on how she advises students on SAT versus ACT. I love the insight she provided. She said, “The SAT questions are more challenging and require deeper understanding, whereas the ACT is more straightforward but requires a rapid pace. Some students find that they prefer the pace of the SAT or the question style on the ACT.” Whitney went on to say how discerning between the two can be beneficial to some students. She said, “If you are a student who typically runs out of time or struggles with time management, you will likely find the pace of the SAT more comfortable. If you struggle with math, you may find the variety of subject matter on the ACT, including science, more agreeable.”
Finally, Whitney recommends testing your skills on both tests. “Ultimately, the best way to decide is to try one of each and compare your performance to determine which test you are showing a preference to. If you score the same on both tests, then it becomes a matter of which test you feel more comfortable with and you feel you have the opportunity to make greater gains on,” she said. I highly recommend Summit Educational Group and the services they provide.
Math Anxiety is Real
We continued our conversation about the individual sections of the tests. Sarah confided that math was her biggest weakness. "I'm worried about forgetting formulas or getting tripped up on those tricky word problems," she admitted.
"You're not alone! Many students feel the same way. Start by reviewing the fundamental math concepts and then focus on practicing problem-solving techniques. There are some great resources out there, like Khan Academy, that offer free practice problems and tutorials. And if you're struggling, consider working with a tutor who can provide personalized support."
College Board has many helpful resources on their website. Also, visit our Links & Resources page for more college preparation support.
Taming Test Day Nerves
Sarah also shared that she gets nervous before big tests. "I'm worried that my anxiety will affect my performance," she said.
"Test-day jitters are completely normal," I reassured her. "The key is to find healthy ways to manage that stress. Make sure you're getting enough sleep, eating nutritious foods, and incorporating some relaxation techniques into your routine, like deep breathing or meditation. On test day, arrive early, take some deep breaths, and remind yourself that you've prepared for this. Bring some favorite snacks and water to recharge during the breaks."
Setting Realistic Expectations
Sarah then expressed her concern about not achieving her score goals. "I know these scores are important for college applications," she said.
"It's great to have goals," I told her, "but try not to put too much pressure on yourself. Remember that the ACT/SAT is just one factor in the college admissions process. Focus on doing your best and showcasing your unique strengths and accomplishments in your applications. And don't forget, TBG is here to help you navigate the entire college admissions journey, from test submission strategy to essay writing to choosing the right schools."
Finding Time to Study
Sarah also expressed concern about finding enough time to study with her busy schedule. "That's a common challenge for busy students," I acknowledged. "The key is to create a realistic study schedule that fits into your life. Break down your study time into smaller, manageable chunks, and try to incorporate it into your daily routine. And don't forget to prioritize self-care and make time for activities you enjoy."
Facing Fears and Finding Support
Finally, Sarah expressed her fear of not doing well. "It's natural to feel some anxiety," I said, "but try to keep things in perspective. The ACT/SAT is just one piece of the puzzle. Colleges consider many factors, including your coursework, grades, extracurricular activities, essays, and recommendations. And remember, you can always retake the test if you're not happy with your first score. At TBG, we're here to support you every step of the way.
I hope that by sharing this conversation, I've been able to offer some reassurance and guidance to other students who are feeling stressed about the ACT/SAT. Remember, you're not alone! With the right preparation and support, you can achieve your goals.
For additional ACT/SAT preparation and college planning, please contact TBG today.
Key Takeaways for Conquering ACT/SAT Anxiety:
Practice Makes Perfect: Take timed practice tests to get comfortable with the format and identify your weaknesses.
Math Mastery: Review fundamental concepts and practice problem-solving techniques. Consider a tutor if needed.
Stress Less: Prioritize sleep, healthy eating, and relaxation techniques to manage test-day jitters.
Set Realistic Expectations: Remember the ACT/SAT is just one factor in college admissions. Focus on your overall application.
Essay Excellence: Practice writing essays under timed conditions and seek feedback.
Time Management is Key: Create a study schedule that fits your life and break down study time into manageable chunks.
Choose the Right Test: Take practice tests of both the ACT and SAT to see which one is a better fit for you.
Don't Be Afraid to Ask for Help: TBG is here to support you with personalized guidance and expert advice.
Believe in Yourself: You've got this! With the right preparation and support, you can achieve your goals.