Standardized Testing: The ACT and SAT

If you plan on going to college, you are going to have to take either the ACT or SAT. These timed, standardized tests can make or break your application; most colleges have a score requirement in order to be admitted. Plus, you can earn more scholarships with a higher score.

Don’t worry, there is no reason to panic. Plenty of websites, (Princetonreview.com, collegeboard.org, kaptest.com and more,) offer a lot of prep, from tutoring services to practice tests to study guides. Your high school guidance counselor can also offer advice on studying and signing up for these exams. Here are some Do’s and Don’ts of the ACT and SAT.

Do:

  • DO some research. The tests are different, with different scoring, different timing, and some different subjects. Learn what you can about the tests and determine which you will do better on.
  • DO look into the score requirements of the schools you are applying to. You’ll want to score just as well or better to be considered for admittance.
  • DO take timed practice tests. This is a great way to determine where you stand and where you can improve.
  • DO take studying seriously. Give yourself at least a few months to prepare. Studying options are endless. Whether you hire a tutor, sign up for a course or do some online reading, do your homework!
  • DO take challenging courses. The harder you push yourself in school, the better you will do on the exam.
  • DO pay attention to what you’re doing.
  • DO take the test more than once (if possible.) It does cost money to sign up for the tests, but if you can afford to take it twice, go for it! Most students take their first test in the spring of their junior year and then again in the fall of senior year. You will be better prepared and a little more relaxed the second time around.

Don’t:

  • Don’t forget your calculator if you are taking the ACT.
  • Don’t talk to or look at your classmates once test time begins. You will be removed from the testing room and won’t be allowed to finish the test.
  • Don’t spend too much time on one question, (especially on the ACT.) The tests are timed, and since you aren’t penalized for guessing answers, you will want to answer as many questions as possible. Use the process of elimination to determine the right answer. If you are still completely lost, move on and come back to the question if there’s time at the end, or answer to the best of your ability.
  • Don’t wait until the last minute to sign up for a test. Start thinking about the ACT or SAT your sophomore year of high school and formulate a study plan. Spend at least 20 minutes a day studying and more time if you have less than three months before the test.
  • Don’t be late on test day. If you’re late, you won’t be allowed to take the test.
  • Don’t finish and turn your test in without going over your answers.
  • Don’t stay up all night cramming for the test. Get a good night’s sleep and a nutritious breakfast.

According to Princetonreview.com, students and parents begin preparing for college by comparing the ACT and SAT. In general, the tests cover most of the same content. Both are used for college admissions and merit-based scholarships. Colleges don't prefer one over the other, so do some research and decide which one is right for you.