Creating Test-like Conditions at Home (or Anywhere Else)
Most of our test-prep students take a full SAT or ACT every week before meeting with their tutors.
To optimize SAT/ACT practice tests at home, MightyPrep students are encouraged to simulate official testing conditions, whether using digital platforms like College Board's Bluebook or paper-based exams. While LA-based students can utilize Studio City offices, many Preppers successfully complete tests at home by following simple protocols. This approach yields more accurate and predictive practice scores.
General Practice Test Tips:
Environment: Avoid bedrooms; take tests upright at a hard surface in a quiet, semi-public space like a dining room or office. Alert household members to minimize noise.
Timing: Test ideally in the morning, consistently at the same time each week, mirroring actual exam times. Avoid evening sessions, as scores tend to drop.
Aids: Spicy or minty gum can aid alertness, best used towards the end of the test.
Structure: Complete the entire test in order, without mixing sections or breaking it over multiple days, as this distorts scores. If splitting is necessary, divide the test in half.
Notes: Use a pad to mark lucky guesses, "time sucks," and questions for your tutor, including scratch-paper calculations. This detailed feedback allows for tailored lesson notes and faster score improvement. Digital apps may not save all notations.
Snacks & Hydration: During breaks, choose energy-sustaining snacks like nuts or fruit, avoiding sugary items. Keep water nearby, but manage intake to prevent unscheduled restroom breaks.
Paper-Based Test Specifics:
Proctoring: Utilize the QR code on the red test cover for an online proctor and timer, ensuring strict adherence to time limits.
Difficulty: Paper-based tests always feature the "hard" second module (Module 2B) for maximum exposure to challenging questions.
Grading: Grade using the answer key at the back, only marking incorrect answers. Avoid correcting answers immediately; discovering the correct answer in session is more impactful. Always use the score conversion included with the test as individual test forms feature different score ‘curves.’
Honesty: Accurately record your scores to ensure precise score projections. Inflating scores or taking "mulligans" can compromise data reliability.
Prepping for Prep:
Finally, to maximize your upcoming one-on-one session, ensure you're ready with key information. Your tutor will begin by recording your raw scores for each module (SAT) or section (ACT), so have those readily available, along with your scaled scores (out of 800 or 36, respectively). Additionally, come prepared with a list of your "challenge problems," which include any missed problems, "lucky guesses," and "time sucks" from your practice test. This focused preparation will significantly fast-track your session to success.