How to create an SAT/ACT study schedule
If you decide to take a standardized test (and we recommend that students at least try!), here’s how you can create an effective study schedule.
Pick your test date(s)
You need to make sure you sign up for the test well in advance to ensure that you have a seat at your local testing center! Don’t procrastinate until you realize that you missed the registration deadline for your upcoming test.
Work backward from your test date
Once you have your test date, work backward from that date to figure out how and when you will study. You need to make sure you are taking practice tests at least on a weekly basis. These will be helpful markers of your progress and will tell you where you are strong and where you can improve. In between practice tests, make sure you study the sections that you need the most improvement on!
Here’s an example study schedule:
Context for this study plan: this is if you only have 6 weeks to study, and you were looking to make strong improvements on your test score! Your study plan can be spaced across 3 months if you prefer with only a few hours of studying per week. As with most things, the more you study, the better you will do.
Study plan tips:
The more you study, the better chance you will have of improving your score
Create a plan that you can actually follow
Be prepared to take the test multiple times
How do I take my practice tests?
Before you start studying, take a practice test. This will tell you what you are good at and where you need improvement!
Simulate the testing environment. Be in a quiet, controlled environment, set a timer, follow the allotted break times, and do NOT go over time. It is crucial that you act as though you are taking the actual test.
The tests should be taken to measure progress, not to study and learn new concepts.
Mark all questions you are unsure of during the test.
Immediately after the test, score yourself and review all the questions that you either missed or were unsure of. This will tell you which concepts you need to study in the next few days. Be able to explain, in your own words, why an answer is correct.
Study Resources:
SAT:
Khan Academy (free)
UWorld math problems (free trial)
1600.io strategy course (free trial)
PrepScholar grammar rules
ACT:
Math cheat sheet, and a longer cheat sheet
PrepScholar explanation of reading questions
StudyPoint English section explained
Calculator tips
Final thoughts:
Studying for the SAT or ACT is definitely not fun, but remember that the more you study, the better chance you have of doing well. However, these tests are not the most important part of your application. Do your best to study and prepare for these, but don’t forget to stay on top of your other responsibilities as well!
