Choosing the "Best" Test Prep
Most students are anxious about taking standardized tests. Taking a good test prep course or working one-on-one with a tutor can help alleviate some of = this anxiety by allowing students to become familiar with the exams and test-taking strategies. Here are some questions to guide you when looking for classes or tutors:
Who will be conducting the test prep?
Some independent test prep tutors or those who work for larger companies are recent college graduates with high SAT/ACT scores when they took the exam in high school. Be cautious if this is the case. There is a difference between scoring well on an exam and being able to teach others how to do well. Be sure to ask the tutor or company about specific training and effective teaching, not just being a strong test taker. The best approach is either to use experienced educators as instructors, or at a minimum, ensure the instructors have had training in effective teaching practices.
Does the tutor or class incorporate anxiety-reducing skills?
When evaluating courses or tutors, ask about their experience teaching anxiety management techniques. Look for those who incorporate mindfulness exercises, breathing strategies, and positive visualization alongside content preparation. These stress-reduction skills can significantly improve test-day performance.
What about students with learning differences?
If your teen has a diagnosed learning difference or disability, look for test prep providers who have specific experience working with students with similar needs. Ask about the instructor's training and background in working with learning differences, and their familiarity with common testing accommodations such as extended time or separate testing rooms. The best providers will be able to tailor their teaching methods to your teen's specific learning style and challenges, whether that's breaking down complex problems into smaller steps, using visual aids, or incorporating multisensory learning techniques. They should also be knowledgeable about the documentation required to apply for testing accommodations and be able to help students practice using their approved accommodations effectively during prep sessions.
Will the test prep address the digital SAT and ACT?
Ask if the test prep is working with materials adapted to the new digital format of the SAT. Did they revise their test prep strategy in response to the new format of the test? Ask if they are up to date on the upcoming changes ahead for the ACT. How will they be adapting their materials in response to these changes? How are they getting their information? Are tutors taking the new tests? Are they waiting until test information is released officially by the College Board or ACT organizations?
What is the content of the test preparation and how are the sessions administered?
Is time equally divided between the different sections of the exams, or are whole sessions devoted to specific sections? Is more time spent on particular sections or particular skills development? Additionally, ask how many full-length practice exams, using real exams, will be given – the more, the better.
Also, ask how the practice exams are scored and shared with students. Do they get personal feedback on their strengths and weaknesses? Of course, students should always consider how they learn best and then look for programs that are a good match for their learning style. Some students will do best with private tutoring, while other students can do well in a group setting.
What materials will be used?
The best test prep classes and tutors will use actual SAT and/or ACT exams for practice rather than create their own exams. While many test prep companies use their own proprietary study books, they should also incorporate the College Board’s and the ACT’s study guides into the classroom.
For group settings, what is the class size?
Look for smaller groups, and be sure to ask how much time is allocated in each class session to answer individual questions.
What is the refund policy?
If your child thinks the course isn’t helping after a session or two, can you get a refund? What happens if your child gets sick or has a scheduling conflict that requires dropping out of the course?
The best programs provide personalized attention while maintaining high educational standards. They should demonstrate a track record of success without making unrealistic promises about score improvements.
Look for programs that focus on comprehensive test preparation rather than quick fixes or guaranteed results. The goal should be finding a program that aligns with the students learning style and provides the tools needed for success on the first attempt.
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