This is a period of adapting: adapting how we interact, how we teach, and how we learn. With standardized testing being pushed back to June, students are going to have to prepare for their tests from home. Many students are finding that studying from home comes with a multitude of challenges … and distractions. Here are four tips for studying effectively for standardized tests from home.
Tip #1: Create a Designated Study Space
First things first, you will need a designated study space. A preferable study space would be a desk in your room, but if this is not an option, using a table in a family room will suffice—just make sure your family is aware that you are studying and need to concentrate. If your study space is in a loud area with many distractions, it can be difficult to focus and can lead to wasted time. Also, make sure your study space has all the technological hook-ups you may need and is clutter-free. A messy, unorganized desk can make it difficult for you to get your work done.
Tip #2: Set Goals
The more specific you are with your goals, the more likely you are to accomplish them. What score are you aiming for on the ACT/SAT? What do you need to improve upon to help reach your score goals? Maybe it’s commas for English or fractions for Math. Make it a point to focus on those specific things.
Tip #3: Create a Study Schedule
A study schedule is an effective way to ensure that you are studying what you need to when you need to. It helps with accountability and wards off procrastination. One important aspect of a study schedule is setting reasonable study limits. Are you better at studying in longer or shorter intervals? Find what works best for you and stick with it. Also, make sure to include time limits in your test prep. The ACT and SAT are timed tests, so to properly practice answering questions, give yourself time limits. Click here for more information on time management.
Tip #4: Minimize Distractions
Make sure your study area is free of any distractions. Here are some things you can do to help: keep all social media out of sight—it can be far too easy to want to check it every five minutes. Put your phone on silent so that you do not get swept up texting. Keep your family updated with your study schedule so they know not to disturb you with unnecessary things.
Free ACT Practice Testing
From now until May 31st, we are offering two free online ACT Practice Tests for any school impacted by closures. We will also provide access to our entire reporting suite, including analysis of test-taking skills and a category-by-category breakdown of content as well as individual item analysis. In the last two weeks, we’ve provided over 260,000 free test licenses.
Free ACT and SAT Boot Camp Miniseries
To help students score college ready on the ACT/SAT, we are hosting two free virtual Boot Camp Miniseries—one for the ACT and one for the SAT—led by our top instructors. Each boot camp session is 45 minutes, and for those unable to attend via internet, a phone dial-in option is also provided.
Students and educators can register for free for any boot camp session they would like to attend by clicking the link provided here.
*Each session will be recorded for all those unable to attend. Click here to watch the recordings.