Seniors, overwhelmed with ACT and SAT testing, share helpful tips for taking these tests

by MaKenzie Hilling, Student Life editor

The following story was written by a student on the staff of The Jaguar Times as part of Hilliard Bradley High School’s Journalism Production course.

This person is studying for an ACT test with the help of online sources. Photo by https://unsplash.com

2021 seniors have been thrown into a storm of confusion due to COVID-19. Many don’t know if they should take standardized tests like the ACT and SAT since many colleges are no longer requiring it. Although, many of these seniors have taken these tests at least once and they have a couple tips to share. They have prepared themselves multiple times for these tests, and they understand plenty of student hacks to help the next person taking it. Tutoring is a perfect option, but if you want to save some money and do it yourself; you should follow these tips.

Many seniors have already taken the ACT or SAT test pre-COVID, so they have a lot of insight to encourage students wanting to take them. Feras Akileh (12) says, “study early, grab study guides and go to the library with friends.” Feras believes that being prepared is definitely something you can control. Along with studying early, Feras continues, “take the test early too and take it multiple times to get the best score possible.” There are so many opportunities to prepare yourself for these types of tests. Hundreds of sources are online and in libraries, and plenty are always available. Sean Mandel (12) expresses, “if you can’t go to lessons or get a tutor, YouTube is your best friend for insight and tips for these tests,” he explains that the internet is such a reliable source for researching and studying for these tests. Sean also states that, “free online tests help you understand how the test is set up, and you get an idea of the time frame you have to complete it.” These online tests are a great resource to genuinely understand how these tests are structured and timed. Abby Sayre (12) agrees and says, “the amount of online tests that I took before my actual ACT was substantial, so don’t be afraid to take more than one.” These small studying tips can go a long way for people who don’t get the opportunity to be tutored.

From a teacher perspective, teaching lessons over these tests can be difficult since it’s always changing. Ms. Worth, an AP language and composition teacher, prepares her students by, “work[ing] on SAT/ACT grammar lessons one day [every] week until the test.” Many students, including Addison Crace (12), said that these lessons “were extremely beneficial and allowed them to hone their skills in.” Ms. Worth continues to explain that, “we reviewed grammar rules and practiced abbreviated passages.” Although these lessons were amazing study tools, Ms. Worth reminds students that, “Collegeboard, Naviance, Khan Academy, Marcolearning, etc. all have practice lessons,” if a student is not receiving as much help as they want, these resources are free and available. This may seem overwhelming to many students, including ones who are trying to take their test during COVID precautions. But, Ms. Worth encourages and says, “when preparing, start small--one lesson a week (in the area you know you need to improve)--and increase the lessons and subjects as you near the test date.” These tips from a teacher, who gives time to help her students, are very beneficial to use when you start preparing.

These students were able to preserve especially during these trying times. Many were able to prepare themselves regardless of the circumstances using many of these tips. Seniors have been through a lot of adversity, but they were able to stay on top of things and set themselves up for success. While it may be hard to think about right now with so much uncertainty, it’s important for underclassmen to prepare for their futures.