SAT or ACT? A calm guide to getting started

Many universities accept either the SAT or the ACT, and policies change, so always check the current requirements of the universities your child is considering.

Start with a diagnostic

• ✓A full practice test under timed conditions shows which question types cost points and how pacing affects the score.
• ✓Some students do noticeably better on one test than the other. Trying both early can save months.

Plan backwards from the target

• ✓Choose a target score based on the universities your child is aiming for, then plan practice in the weeks before the test date.
• ✓Steady weekly practice with full timed tests every few weeks usually works better than last-minute cramming.

Focus on patterns, not volume

• ✓Review every mistake: was it knowledge, misreading or timing?
• ✓Practise the specific question types that are costing points.

Look after wellbeing

Sleep, regular breaks and a realistic plan matter as much as practice. A good preparation plan should leave room for school work and rest.