Prepping for SAT and ACT

By Loren Deutsch

LAS Coaches are often asked when students should begin prepping for the SAT or ACT, how to mitigate test-taking anxiety, and how to request test accommodations. Some of these questions are asked, annually and it’s understandable why, they are good questions and the LAS Coaches have great answers and insight on these topics!

In the spirit of asking perennial test prep questions, I am sharing Q+As from the most frequently asked, with answers from the experts.

You can learn more about the LAS Test Prep Method™ here.

“When should I start studying for the SAT/ACT?”

There isn’t a perfect answer to this question. Realistically, you want enough time to practice each section, starting with a pretest and error analysis to establish your baseline score. LAS metrics show student outcomes are statistically higher with 12 12-week test prep period.

“I don’t think I’ll be ready for the digital test.”

If you prepped for the SAT or ACT on paper but your test is digital, at a minimum designate time to complete the online tutorial. A little practice helps demystify the test format. If you have several days before the test, designate time to complete at least one practice session from each section (in test mode).

“I get nervous before a big test and then I don’t do well, even if I studied.”

It is not uncommon to experience feelings of stress and anxiety before a test. If these feelings impact your ability to demonstrate all that you know during an exam, there are strategies to address this. LAS incorporates techniques and self-reflective practices in all test prep plans. Even if you have limited time before your exam, contact LAS to arrange a consultation.

“I think my student needs test accommodations. What do we do?”

If your student has approved test accommodations at school, contact your student’s school and speak with the resource teacher, advisor, or case manager. They are often the best liaisons for ensuring your student’s accommodations on the SAT and ACT. If your student does not have approved test accommodations at school, go to the SAT or ACT website and use the search key to obtain the forms necessary when requesting test accommodations. This process may take at least 30-60 days before you receive feedback on whether the accommodation request was approved. The request often requires additional paperwork from students and families, such as neuropsychological or psychoeducational testing and a letter or report from a treating physician or learning specialist.