3 Tactics for Structuring Your Summer Test Prep

With the absence of many academic responsibilities, summer break is the perfect time to focus on your ACT or SAT test prep. Whether you’re planning to take your standardized exam later this summer or once the fall semester begins, take advantage of the summer months to excel come test day. There are many ways to structure your summer test prep, including by identifying your goal score, developing a weekly study schedule, and pinpointing specific prep strategies to hone.

Hoping to make the most of your summer studying? Here are three tactics for structuring your summer test prep:

1. Identify your goal score
The first thing to do when structuring your summer prep plan is to identify your goal score.
To do this, note how you’ve performed on diagnostic tests, as well as on exams like the PSAT and PreACT. Reviewing your performance on these tests will help you identify an attainable exam score for the ACT or SAT. In addition, it’s also important to research recommended ACT and SAT scores for your intended colleges. If your dream school, for example, has an average score that’s slightly higher than what you’re projected to earn, factor this into your prep plan to find ways to work toward that score.

Setting a goal score can help you create the most efficient and productive prep plan possible. Once you’ve identified your goal score, break it down even further by noting how you hope to perform on each portion of the test. This will give you a better understanding of how you need to structure the focus of your prep time in order to get the most out of your summer.

2. Develop a weekly prep schedule
While you likely have fewer academic responsibilities during the summer months, you may have other commitments that occupy your time. Because the summer months can fly by, it’s vital to create a prep schedule at the start of summer break. Developing a weekly prep schedule will help you stay focused on your studies and best manage your time during these busy summer months.

The first step in creating a productive summer prep schedule is to be realistic in your expectations. Often, students set their summer study goals too high and end up feeling discouraged when they fall short of meeting these goals. In order to avoid this, set realistic weekly prep goals. Make a list of your weekly priorities, and honestly identify spaces you can use for test prep. Be sure to select times and locations for studying that you know you’ll be able to focus in and be as productive as possible.

3. Pinpoint specific study strategies
Once you’ve identified a summer prep schedule, create a list of potential study strategies to maximize your time. Take advantage of practice exams, as these allow you to gain a deeper insight into specific areas you can improve. Also note ways you can focus your time management skills. Additionally, consider forming a study group with your classmates that meets once a week to work on specific skills.

Summer is also a great time to incorporate fun study strategies into your plan. Take your studying outside, such as to the park or the pool. Identify places you find calming to complete your practice tests or readings, as it provides a beneficial change of scenery during your study time.

Summer break provides the perfect opportunity to focus on your test prep and prepare for a successful exam experience. Make the most of the summer months by identifying specific study strategies and creating a structured study plan. By adopting these strategies, you can set yourself up for success on your ACT or SAT test.

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