PLANNING THE MOST EFFECTIVE TEST PREP PATH

The steps to working smarter, not harder.

TAKE A DIAGNOSTIC EXAM

Colleges only require one of the SAT or ACT. Take one or more diagnostics below to assess which exam best suits you...

SAT Diagnostic <<Click this link to download BLUEBOOK, the app that contains digital SAT practice tests.
- This app requires a college board username. Create one at www.collegeboard.org or text Jim at 518 727 7105 for assistance!
ACT Diagnostic << Click link to take this full-length ACT. For grading, text a photo of the bubble sheet to Jim Addeo at 518 727 7105.
Concordance Table << Click this link to compare the strength of your SAT Diagnostic score and your ACT diagnostic score.

Set your SAT/ACT test dates carefully . . .

2025-2026 SAT ACT Test dates and deadlines << Click this link for a test calendar.
Plan on one to two months.
It's ideal to prep when there's least else on your plate such as varsity sports, AP exams, and final exam.

Plan at least 2 shots at the SAT/ACT since . . .

Many students need to work out the bugs on attempt #1 in order to settle in better on attempt #2.
Many colleges super-score - they'll pair your best sections from multiple test dates in order to create a highest overall composite score.

Know how your college selections factor in the SAT/ACT.

About 10% of colleges REQUIRE you to submit an SAT or ACT score.
About 10% of colleges are TEST BLIND - they do not take test scores into account.
About 80% of schools are TEST OPTIONAL - you do not have to submit a score, but it can boost your application.
Google any school's status in regards to test requirements. Example: Google "SUNY Albany SAT optional"

Figure out what scores your college selections are seeking.

Example: Google "SUNY Albany SAT Score" to reveal the score range of previously accepted students.
For TEST OPTIONAL schools, submit your score it meets or exceeds their range, and withhold your scores if you fall far short.

Dig deeper into what the SAT/ACT means for TEST OPTIONAL schools.

Every college must publish a "Common Data Set," which provides vast info on previously accepted students.
A college's Common Data Set will state what percentage of accepted students submitted a test score.
The higher this percentage, the more important it is to submit a test score to a TEST OPTIONAL college.
Example: Google "University of Michigan Common Data Set 2022-2023" and scroll down to "SAT/ACT Policies"

Whether utilizing a prep program, or studying on your own:

Stick to one exam - Alternating between SAT and ACT prep dilutes your efforts and expends more energy than may be necessary.
Take practice tests - For the SAT, start with digital tests via this link: BLUEBOOK For ACT, start here: Official ACT Study Guide.
Review your tests - Analysis of past mistakes is the true path to gains. Keep a photo log of missed questions and review it constantly!
Be consistent - Build momentum by working every week in the 1 to 2 months prior to test day rather than scatter prep here and there.
Work in small chunks - For example, one ACT reading passage takes 9 minutes. Doing one per day makes practice very doable.
Work in large chunks - To build endurance and perfect your overall process, take full timed exams especially as test day nears.