Summer is the perfect time to focus on standardized test preparation without the distractions of homework and after-school sports and activities. As the Founder & CEO of Prep Expert, I understand the importance of efficient study strategies to maximize your SAT and ACT scores. Here are some effective summer study strategies to help you excel on any standardized tests coming up in the fall.
Create a study schedule
Creating a structured study schedule in the summertime is crucial. Begin by assessing your daily commitments and identifying when you can consistently dedicate time to test preparation. For instance, if you’re more focused in the morning, allocate a couple of hours each morning to studying. Break down your study sessions into specific sections of the test. For example, Mondays can be dedicated to Math, Tuesdays to Reading, and so on. This ensures balanced preparation and helps prevent burnout by varying the content you study daily.
Related: Make the Most of Your Time With a Great Study Routine
Set specific goals
Set specific, achievable goals for each study session and your overall progress. Setting short- and long-term goals will keep you motivated and focused on your standardized test prep. Short-term goals can include completing a certain number of practice questions daily, while a long-term goal might be improving your score by several points over a month. Whether it’s a target score or the number of practice tests you want to complete, write down your goals and keep them visible. Clear objectives will help you stay committed to your study plan. Plus, tracking your progress and celebrating small victories along the way can keep you motivated and on track to achieve your overall goal.
Utilize official practice questions
Be sure to use official practice tests and sample questions from the College Board and ACT for the most accurate representation of what you will face on test day—alternative sources may not accurately reflect the current tests. Official practice materials are designed by the same people who create the actual tests, ensuring they accurately reflect the format and difficulty you will encounter on test day. Utilizing these resources will help you become familiar with what will be asked on the test and the best strategies for answering different types of questions, which will also allow you to anticipate tricky questions and common pitfalls. For example, SAT Math questions often require multi-step problem-solving skills, and by practicing with real questions, you can learn to identify the most efficient solution paths.
Focus on error insight and your weaknesses
Identifying and focusing on your weak areas is crucial for effective test preparation. Start by taking a full diagnostic test to determine your strengths and weaknesses. This can help you allocate study time more effectively by showing you which areas you need to spend more time improving. After taking practice tests, it’s crucial to thoroughly review your mistakes to understand why you got a question wrong and how to reach the correct answer. This analysis helps you identify patterns in your mistakes and develop strategies to avoid them in the future.
Create an error log to track your mistakes. For each error, note the question type, the mistake made, and the correct approach. Reviewing this log regularly will reinforce the correct strategies and reduce the likelihood of repeating the same mistakes, helping turn weaknesses into strengths. Consider seeking help from a tutor or study group to get different perspectives on challenging topics. Working on your weak areas will not only improve your overall scores but also boost your confidence.
Related: How to Work on Your Academic Weaknesses in High School
Pick up new test-taking strategies
Effective test-taking strategies can significantly improve your performance on standardized tests. One such strategy is the process of elimination. By eliminating obviously incorrect answers, you increase your chances of selecting the correct one. Pacing is another critical strategy. Both the SAT and ACT are timed, so it’s essential to practice completing sections within the allotted time. Take timed practice tests to get a feel for the pacing and identify any sections where you need to speed up.
Additionally, skip difficult questions initially. Focus on answering the questions you find easier first, then return to the harder ones if time allows. This ensures you maximize your scores by answering the highest number of questions correctly; it will also show you what you need to work on further in your study sessions.
Enhance your reading speed and comprehension
Reading speed and comprehension are vital skills for both the SAT and ACT. Practice reading a variety of complex and simple texts, such as articles from reputable newspapers, scientific journals, and classic literature. Summarize what you read to improve your comprehension and retention. This practice helps you quickly grasp the main ideas and details and relay them in your own words, a skill that is particularly useful for the Reading sections of both tests. Additionally, consider using apps designed to improve reading speed, such as Spreeder. These tools can help you read faster and manage your time on test day without sacrificing comprehension.
Related: 3 Tips to Improve Your Reading Retention for School
Use the Pomodoro Technique
The Pomodoro Technique is an effective method to help you maintain focus and productivity when studying. Just set a timer for a 25-minute focused study session. When the timer goes off, take a five-minute break. After four Pomodoros, take a longer break of 15–30 minutes. This technique helps prevent burnout and keeps your mind fresh. Use the short breaks to stretch, hydrate, or take a quick walk. The longer breaks can be used for more extended relaxation like a quick nap or healthy snack. This structured approach ensures you stay on task and make the most of your study time.
Maintain your physical and mental well-being
A healthy body contributes to a healthy mind. Ensure you get enough sleep, eat nutritious meals, and exercise regularly. Mindfulness techniques, such as deep breathing exercises or guided meditation, can also help you manage any test anxiety you may be experiencing. Regularly practicing these techniques and habits helps you stay calm and focused during the test. Also incorporate physical activity into your daily routine, such as a morning jog or yoga session. Exercise boosts brain function and reduces stress, helping you stay focused and calm while you study.
Join a prep course
Consider joining an online test prep course if you have the resources. Prep courses often include personalized study plans, which can be more effective than studying alone. Instructors can offer insights that you might not find in self-study materials. Additionally, being part of a prep course can provide motivation through accountability, helping you stay on track with your study goals. For example, Prep Expert offers comprehensive SAT and ACT prep courses that include live instruction, practice tests, and detailed feedback. These resources can be invaluable in boosting your test scores and confidence.
Related: 3 Things to Consider About Standardized Test Prep Services
By following these strategies, you can make the most of your summer study time and significantly improve your standardized test scores. Remember, consistent and intentional preparation is key to SAT and ACT success. Good luck!
Have you scheduled your standardized test date yet? See what’s coming up using our SAT & ACT Date Wheel.
