Don’t know what to do summer before junior year of high school? Here are 10 awesome ideas to give you a head start!
Your SAT Score Report Explained
The top portion of your score report contains a big black number. This is your SAT Score, also referred to as your total score. Next to your score are the numbers 400–1600, indicating that the range of possible scores on the SAT is 400–1600. To the right of your total score is your score percentile, telling you what percentage of students who took the test did better or worse than you. In small type below your score is your Score Range…
New!: Virtual Boot Camp & Get Ahead Programs
Our subject tutoring program provides students with one-to-one individualized support in math, science, reading, writing, English, history, and foreign language. For more information on this program, please visit our Subject Tutoring page.
Summer ACT/SAT Preparation
Test prep in the summer prior to junior year isn’t for all students, but it’s a good idea for those students who are targeting an early fall test date in their junior year, as well as those who feel that they need extra help in certain subject areas before taking a first test later in their junior year. The first step is to take baseline diagnostic tests for both the SAT and the ACT to determine which test is best for you. Once you have baseline scores, a tutor will work with you to determine an appropriate test date to target as well as to develop a testing plan.
6 Tips to Build Confidence for Your AP Exams
High school can be a balancing act. You might be figuring out how to make time for your coursework, extracurricular activities, a part-time job, or spending more time with your friends. Wherever you are this spring, know that you can do it! Whether you’re taking your first AP Exam or your last, here are some proven tactics that will help you be successful and build confidence now and in the future.
Top Ten Test-Taking Tips for Students
Top Ten Test-Taking Tips for Students
Here are the top ten tips to success!
1. Have a Positive Attitude
Approach the big test as you'd approach a giant jigsaw puzzle. It might be tough, but you can do it! A positive attitude goes a long way toward success.
2. Make a Plan
The week before the test, ask your teacher what the test is going to cover. Is it from the textbook only? Class notes? Can you use your calculator? If you've been absent, talk to friends about material you may have missed. Make a list of the most important topics to be covered and use that as a guide when you study. Circle items that you know will require extra time. Be sure to plan extra time to study the most challenging topics.
3. The Night Before
Cramming doesn't work. If you've followed a study plan, the night before the test you should do a quick review and get to bed early. Remember, your brain and body need sleep to function well, so don't stay up late!
4. The Morning of the Test
Did you know that you think better when you have a full stomach? So don't skip breakfast the morning of the test. Get to school early and do a ten-minute power study right before the test, so your brain is turned on and tuned up.
5. Test Time
Before the test begins, make sure you have everything you'll need - scratch paper, extra pencils, your calculator (if you're allowed to use it). Understand how the test is scored: Do you lose points for incorrect answers? Or is it better to make guesses when you're not sure of the answer? Read the instructions! You want to make sure you are marking answers correctly.
6. Manage Your Time
Scan through the test quickly before starting. Answering the easy questions first can be a time saver and a confidence builder. Plus, it saves more time in the end for you to focus on the hard stuff.
7. I'm Stuck!
Those tricky problems can knock you off balance. Don't get worried or frustrated. Reread the question to make sure you understand it, and then try to solve it the best way you know how. If you're still stuck, circle it and move on. You can come back to it later. What if you have no idea about the answer? Review your options and make the best guess you can, but only if you don't lose points for wrong answers.
8. Multiple-Choice Questions
The process of elimination can help you choose the correct answer in a multiple-choice question. Start by crossing off the answers that couldn't be right. Then spend your time focusing on the possible correct choices before selecting your answer.
9. Neatness Counts
If your 4s look like 9s, it could be a problem. Be sure that your writing is legible and that you erase your mistakes. For machine-scored tests, fill in the spaces carefully.
10. I'm Done!
Not so fast - when you complete the last item on the test, remember that you're not done yet. First, check the clock and go back to review your answers, making sure that you didn't make any careless mistakes (such as putting the right answer in the wrong place or skipping a question). Spend the last remaining minutes going over the hardest problems before you turn in your test.
Follow these test tips, and you'll know you did your best - congratulations!
2021-2022 Mock Test Dates
with a Live Virtual Proctor
VHES offers online mock SAT and ACT tests Saturdays at 9:00 am through Lessonspace, a teaching platform that enables our proctors to oversee virtual exams and gauge students' test readiness. Upon registering for mock tests, students will receive a test packet in the mail that includes the following:
ACT/SAT answer sheet
ACT/SAT test booklet
Testing instructions
Please sign up no later than Monday during the week of the mock test. The day before each test, students will receive an emailed link to join the virtually proctored test.
Upon completion of the test, parents and students receive a 9-page diagnostic report showing how the student is performing in each dimension of the SAT or ACT. This detailed report is used to establish a baseline score, is the basis for test-prep planning, and is instrumental in helping us customize a tutoring program that addresses the most pertinent test sections. For students taking both the ACT and SAT, we also provide a concordance chart with test recommendations. See what our baseline test reports look like: ACT and SAT. There is a $25 test registration fee.
Register for a mock test by clicking on a specific test date below.
Mock ACT test dates:
January 8, 2022
February 5, 2022
March 5, 2022
April 16, 2022
May 21, 2022
Mock SAT test dates:
January 15, 2022
February 19, 2022
March 19, 2022
April 9, 2022
May 14, 2022
Visit our Mock Testing page to learn more.
Learn more about our test prep program.
Find out how an academic coach can help.
Interested in one-to-one tutoring? Contact us to get started.
ACT Accommodations Requirements
ACT Streamlines Accommodations Eligibility Requirements for Students with IEPs, 504 Plans
ACT, the nonprofit developer of the ACT test, will approve allowable accommodations already included in students’ Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) or 504 plans.
Beginning with the 2021-22 testing year, students who already receive accommodations at their school under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act will automatically be eligible to receive the allowable testing accommodations when they register for the ACT with accommodations.
The IDEA and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act contain rigorous requirements that public schools must follow in determining who is an eligible student with a disability and what accommodations eligible students need to access their education. This includes what accommodations are needed to access classroom and standardized tests, like the ACT test.
“Students with disabilities already face many barriers in their lives, and we don’t want the accommodations process for taking the ACT to be one of them,” said ACT CEO Janet Godwin. “This policy change simplifies and expedites the process for requesting accommodations, so that students can focus on learning all that they can in school and showing what they know on test day.”
In conjunction with the policy change, ACT is updating its system for requesting accommodations to require less information and documentation to support requests submitted on behalf of students with a current IEP or 504 plan.
“By aligning to a standard that is already applied in schools where the majority of our students with accommodations are learning, we simplify and expedite the process for students, families, and educators,” said ACT Senior Director of Accessibility Katie Featherston.
While this change benefits the majority of students who test with accommodations, ACT will continue to offer accommodations to test-takers who do not have a current IEP or 504 plan. The organization will continue to use the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standard to determine whether there is a “physical or mental impairment that substantially limits a major life activity” and whether the requested accommodations are reasonable for the ACT test.
More information about the policy change and process for requesting accommodations can be found here.
2021-2022 Mock Test Dates with a Live Virtual Proctor
VHES offers online mock SAT and ACT tests Saturdays at 9:00 am through Lessonspace, a teaching platform that enables our proctors to oversee virtual exams and gauge students' test readiness. Upon registering for mock tests, students will receive a test packet in the mail that includes the following:
ACT/SAT answer sheet
ACT/SAT test booklet
Testing instructions
Please sign up no later than Monday during the week of the mock test. The day before each test, students will receive an emailed link to join the virtually proctored test.
Upon completion of the test, parents and students receive a 9-page diagnostic report showing how the student is performing in each dimension of the SAT or ACT. This detailed report is used to establish a baseline score, is the basis for test-prep planning, and is instrumental in helping us customize a tutoring program that addresses the most pertinent test sections. For students taking both the ACT and SAT, we also provide a concordance chart with test recommendations. See what our baseline test reports look like: ACT and SAT. There is a $25 test registration fee.
Register for a mock test by clicking on a specific test date below.
Mock ACT test dates:
January 8, 2022
February 5, 2022
March 5, 2022
April 16, 2022
May 21, 2022
Mock SAT test dates:
January 15, 2022
February 19, 2022
March 19, 2022
April 9, 2022
May 14, 2022
Visit our Mock Testing page to learn more.
Learn more about our test prep program.
Find out how an academic coach can help.
Interested in one-to-one tutoring? Contact us to get started.
23 Proven Sat Tips & Tricks in 2021
Passing the SAT exam with a good score is as important as your GPA when it comes to applying to colleges after high school. So, getting a high score should be your priority while preparing for this exam. Interestingly, you don’t have to sit for this exam countless times to get your desired score. Simply read this article to learn 25 proven SAT tips and tricks that will help you excel in 2021.
The SAT, which started as an adaptation of the Army Alpha in 1926, has gone through some changes to become the modern SAT. One of the most notable changes is the splitting of the SAT exam into two sections—the verbal section and the quantitative analysis section.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
What is the SAT?
Why the SAT?
How Do I Get A Perfect SAT score? (Tips and Tricks)
#1. Remove three wrong answers (Most important SAT tip and trick)
#2. Always try to understand your mistakes
#3. Pay careful attention to connotation and context
#4. Make use of finding the evidence questions to your satisfaction
#5. Use a particular plan to read the passages
#6. Take note of passage introductions
#7. Put more interest in the passages
#8. Look for direct evidence
#9. Concentrate on filling content gaps first
#10. Try to resolve questions that you missed before looking at the answer explanations
#11. Underline major parts of the question
#12. Study formulas
#13. Study grammar rules
#14. Be careful with NO CHANGE answers
#15. Skim the paragraph before answering rhetoric questions
#16. Choose the more concise answer if both answers are grammatically correct
#17. Study and Write
#18. Use certain evidence
#19. Prepare before the night of the SAT test
#20. Skip the difficult questions
#21. Bubble at the end
#22. Double-check your answers
#23. Stay calm
What SAT score do I need to get into my school of choice?
Registration for SAT in 2021
What skills do I need for the SAT test?
How do they score the SAT?
Conclusion
What is the SAT?
The SAT is an entrance exam that most colleges and universities use to consider high school students for admissions. It is a multiple-choice, pencil-and-paper test established and given by the College Board. SAT stands for Scholastic Assessment Test, which was initially known as the Scholastic Aptitude Test.
The aim of the SAT is to check a high school student’s preparation for college. Also, it gives colleges one common data point which they can use to compare all applicants for admission.
Moreover, college admissions officers will assess standardized test scores together with an applicant’s high school GPA, the classes he/she took in high school, letters of recommendation from teachers or mentors, extracurricular activities, admission interviews, and personal essays. The importance of SAT scores in the college application process varies from one school to another.
Nevertheless, the higher you score on the SAT and/or ACT, the more chances you’ll have to attend the college of your choice.
Why the SAT?
The SAT is a standardized test that shows schools that you’re prepared for college by assessing major skills like reading comprehension, computational ability, and clarity of expression. It gives schools reliable data on students’ performance in a nationwide exam.
You’ll definitely need to take the SAT or ACT if you’re applying to colleges or universities in the United States. This is because most schools need you to submit test scores together with your application. Depending on where you want to apply, your ACT or SAT score can determine about 50% of the admission decision. So, you really need a high SAT score.
How Do I Get A Perfect SAT score? (Tips and Tricks)
Studying for the SAT is usually an uphill task for most high school students because they don’t know where to start. A nice way is with the structure of the test and best approaches to it.
Below are some of the new tips and tricks for the SAT in 2021, which will help you to excel in your quest for admission to colleges and universities.
#1. Remove three wrong answers (Most important SAT tip and trick)
Well, the most important SAT tip and trick to have in mind is that there is only one correct answer for each question. So, ensure that you eliminate any other second answer.
Actually, it means that your first plan on the test is to remove wrong answers. If you find any question difficult, try to find reasons to point out the flaw in most of the answers instead of reasons why some options could work.
#2. Always try to understand your mistakes
This is a very important SAT tip and trick. Devote your time to understanding the mistakes you make on practice questions, the reasons for such mistakes, and the solution to avoid them in the future.
However, mistakes normally come from content weakness, time pressure, question comprehension issues, and careless errors. Above all, you have to understand your mistakes completely so that you can correct and improve your score.
#3. Pay careful attention to connotation and context
Look for words that show positive or negative connotations in the part of the passage that the question is talking about. Honestly, this SAT tip and trick will help you to remove some choices even if you have no idea which of the remaining choices is correct.
In context, make sure that you don’t look at the exact line that is referenced in the question. Also, look at the sentences around it. Similarly, look for contrast words such as “however”, “rather than” or “still”.
#4: Make use of finding the evidence questions to your satisfaction
Actually, the new SAT format has questions that ask you to choose a portion from the passage that serves as the best evidence for your answer to the previous question. Sometimes these questions will stump you, and you should circle them and move on. However, the remaining questions in that section can help you greatly in finding out the mistakes and clearing up vagueness. At the end of the section, go back to the question you circled and you may find you now know the right answer!
#5. Use a particular plan to read the passages
Well, there are some methods you can use depending on your reading comprehension skills. The methods include:
Read through the passage quickly
Don’t skip straight to the questions
Read the passage in full as you circle and underline important information
#6. Take note of passage introductions
There is a little italicized blurb at the beginning of every SAT passage. However, this blurb gives you a bit of an idea about the passage and its author. In fact, this blurb has valuable information, and if you ignore it, you could miss out on easy points.
#7. Put more interest in the passages
Whenever you want to retain information while reading passages on the SAT, you can do it by forcing yourself to engage with the material. Just treat this as a learning experience. You’ll definitely find it much easier to remember what happened in the passage.
#8. Look for direct evidence
Actually, questions on SAT reading may sometimes look subjective, but the reality is that you should try to find direct evidence in the passage to support your answers.
#9. Concentrate on filling content gaps first
If you’re someone that has problems with basic math skills, you may have to put in much effort to improve. This eventually will help you to improve your SAT Math score.
However, the moment you notice you get stuck while practicing SAT Math questions—for example because you don’t like a certain content area—just work to overcome your content weaknesses before you do anything else. This SAT tip and trick is the fastest way to improve your scores.
#10. Try to resolve questions that you missed before looking at the answer explanations
Honestly, this is the best SAT tip and trick that will help you to truly understand how to solve questions you initially missed on the Math section.
#11. Underline major parts of the question
I advise you to apply this SAT math tip and trick on the math section if you’ve missed questions by unknowingly solving for the wrong value. In fact, just underline what you need to find in the question with your pen or pencil so that you will not be confused while calculating.
#12. Study formulas
There’s always a list of formulas in the SAT math section for you. If you start checking them, you’ll lose time and momentum. However, it is advised to have all the formulas memorized beforehand.
#13. Study grammar rules
The SAT writing section has a certain systemized approach to grammar. It is advised to study the rules to reduce confusion. Even if you think you’re pretty good at grammar, it’s not always enough to just go by what “looks right” to you.
If you’re not used to some of the more outdated grammar rules tested on the SAT, just try to study them.
#14. Be careful with NO CHANGE answers
Once you realize that you’re answering NO CHANGE for several questions on the writing section, go back and double-check your answers. NO CHANGE will only be the answer for 25 percent or less of the questions where it’s an option.
If you’re selecting it more than that, you might be missing something. Be sure to check it again before you submit.
#15. Skim the paragraph before answering rhetoric questions
Rhetoric questions challenge you to inspect the whole paragraph or the whole of the passage to find the right answer. However, some of the examples of rhetoric questions are questions about sentence function, the logical sequences of sentences, and the author’s style and tone. Read through the paragraph quickly as a whole and then try to answer the rhetoric questions.
#16. Choose the more concise answer if both answers are grammatically correct
One of the very important tips and tricks for SAT Writing tests is briefness. This is one’s ability to use as few words as necessary to transmit an idea clearly. Before you can answer grammar questions correctly, you need to know which are the grammatically correct choices, then choose the most concise one.
#17. Study and Write
There is an essay prompt on the new SAT that requires you to examine an argument given in a passage. The examiners want to see if you actually understand the author’s point and can write a clear explanation of how he or she builds the argument.
You’ll be given fifty minutes for the essay, so try and spend about 10-15 minutes to understand exactly what the author is saying and how you’ll draft your essay from your analysis. This essay has been made optional.
#18. Use certain evidence
Try not to explain how the writer builds the argument in your own words, but prove your points with certain examples. If you’re skimming the passage for the first time, use a pencil to underline sentences or phrases that give evidence of the persuasive approach of the writer.
Also, you should use direct quotes in the essay to strengthen the most important points.
#19. Prepare before the night of the SAT test
Students normally get nervous on the morning of the SAT test and this can make them forget a lot of things which they need for the test. So, before the night of the SAT, here is a checklist of what you need:
Admission ticket
Photo ID
#2 pencils and eraser
Calculator
#20. Skip the difficult questions
If you’re having problems with a question, circle and skip it and move on before you waste too much time on it. Moreover, don’t spend more than a minute trying to answer any question in the math and reading sections. Also, don’t spend more than 30 seconds in the writing section.
Circle any questions that you skip so that they’re easier for you to pick out when you go back through the section. If you still can’t figure out the answer, take a guess!
#21. Bubble at the end
Honestly, a nice method to save time is to fill in all your answers at the end of the section. You can do this by circling your choices in your test booklet as you go along. With this SAT tip and trick, you’ll prevent going back and forth between your test booklet and answer sheet.
Moreover, make sure you only use this plan if you already know you can finish the section with at least 3-5 minutes remaining.
#22. Double-check your answers
Make sure that you always double-check your answers first. While going through each section, circle questions that you’re not sure of so that you can double-check strategically.
Moreover, if you have enough time, you can even go through and check all your answers. By so doing, you’ll find any careless mistake you might have made while rushing to answer the questions.
#23. Stay calm
Try to keep a cool head on the test. In fact, once you see a question you don’t understand, don’t let it get you nervous. You might need to skip some questions at first. Just breathe and take it one question at a time.
What SAT score do I need to get into my school of choice?
SAT scores alone usually will not guarantee your admission into your dream schools. For you to stand a good chance of getting into your school of choice, try to have an SAT score that ranges from the 25th to the 75th of the colleges’ percentiles for admitted students.
On the other hand, if your score is lower than the 25th percentile for a particular school, you might still gain admission. This is because 25% of admitted students had a lower score and they still gained admission.
Registration for SAT in 2021
Students can register for the SAT using the offline method through a mail or online. Using the online method, candidates should create a login ID on the official SAT website and go ahead with the registration process.
Here are the online registration steps:
Visit the College Board official website.
Create your account.
Submit all the required details.
Select which exam you want to take together with your nearest test center.
Upload your passport photograph.
Then pay the application fee.
Also, the steps for registration by mail are as follows:
Get ‘The Student Registration Guide for the SAT and SAT Subject Tests, which is available at schools.
The guide includes a registration form and a return envelope.
The form needs to be sent along with a demand draft.
The local representative of the SAT in India is the USIEF. The mailed registration forms will be sent to their regional office.
What skills do I need for the SAT test?
The SAT exam examines Mathematical, Critical Reading, and Writing skills of the applicants. It analyzes the skills which students have learned in their schools according to the College Board. Also, it tests the skills which are needed for academic success in college.
How do they score the SAT?
The SAT test is scored using a scale of 400-1600. There is always one score for Math and one score for Verbal—comprised of “Reading” and “Writing and Language” sections. Both sections are scored on a scale of 200-800, with a total possible score of 1600. You may take the SAT test more than once.
Passing the Standardized test is not easy but you can make it easier for yourself. It is important to study for the test. If you want to do well on the SAT test and gain admission to the college of your choice, remember that you can learn to improve your score by using these 23 tips and tricks. Read more below on assessing your current score and finding a personalized tutor if you need one.
CONTACT US FOR A FREE PRACTICE TEST PACKET AND DIAGNOSTIC REPORT (VIEW SAMPLE STUDENT REPORTS: ACT, SAT, SSAT, ISEE, AND HSPT).
Vint Hill Educational Services offers mock tests for the ACT and SAT. These are taken in a group setting to simulate the testing environment. For the ACT and SAT, we will review the scores to see which test the student is scoring higher on. Since all colleges and universities accept both tests, it's beneficial to know if your child is scoring higher on the ACT or SAT. Check out our ACT versus SAT comparison chart for test differences. Sometimes the difference is like night and day, and for others, it may be a hairline higher on one versus the other. The student won't know which test is better, unless the individual takes one of each. We'll use our score concordance chart in order to make a test recommendation.
SUMMER 2021 MOCK ACT/SAT TEST DATES
WE WILL BE PROCTORING TESTS VIRTUALLY ON SATURDAY MORNINGS AT 9:00 AM. UPON REGISTERING FOR A VIRTUAL MOCK TEST, YOU’LL RECEIVE A TEST PACKET VIA USPS MAIL.
PACKET INCLUDES:
ACT/SAT ANSWER SHEET
ACT/SAT TEST BOOKLET
TEST INSTRUCTIONS
PLEASE SIGN UP NO LATER THAN MONDAY DURING THE WEEK OF THE MOCK TEST. BE SURE TO INCLUDE YOUR ADDRESS DURING REGISTRATION, SO THAT WE CAN MAIL YOU A TESTING PACKET.
ALL ACT/SAT TESTS WILL BE PROCTORED VIRTUALLY THROUGH LESSONSPACE. THE DAY BEFORE EACH TEST, STUDENTS WILL RECEIVE AN EMAILED LINK TO JOIN THE VIRTUALLY PROCTORED TEST. THE TEST INSTRUCTIONS CAN BE USED SHOULD A STUDENT LOSE CONNECTION TO THE TESTING LOBBY.
ACT
Register for a mock ACT by clicking on a specific test date below.
Mock ACT test dates:
SAT
Register for a mock SAT by clicking on a specific test date below. :
Mock SAT test dates:
We also offer one-to-one mock testing at our offices. This consists of a full-length practice test for your child. Tests include: ACT, SAT, PSAT, SSAT, ISEE, HSPT, and SAT Subject Tests. We provide the test booklet, essay booklet, answer sheet, testing timer, calculator, and pencils.
We can send parents a practice test as well, to administer to their student in-home. We will send out a free practice test packet along with proctoring instructions. Parents must send the answer sheet back to us via email or mail.
Mock ACT and SAT (Group Testing)
TESTS INCLUDE
ACT and SAT
$25 Registration Fee (1 Mock Test: ACT or SAT) Includes test scores comparison
Mock testing for the ACT and SAT, held in a group setting. Parents will receive a diagnostic score report and phone consultation. View sample student score reports: ACT and SAT.
For the ACT and SAT, we will compare scores in order to determine which test is better for the student to take. See virtual mock test dates above for the 2020-2021 school year.
SAT Math Strategies
Strategies for the SAT Math Section
The SAT remains an important aspect for most college admissions processes, and schools use it as one factor to determine a student’s college readiness. It can even help students qualify for merit scholarships. There are a lot of reasons why you should do your best on this test, so we’ve compiled some of our expert advice to help you improve your score on the math portion, which goes from easiest to hardest.
Focus on a single question – Take it easy and relax. Don’t worry about the next 20 questions. You may feel the need to rush and that’s normal. If you’re patient, you will work faster and produce better results.
Utilize a two-pass approach – Answer all questions that you can on your first pass through. Each question is worth the same point. Don’t let one question suck up your time. Circle the question and move on to the next. Tip: The first set of grid-in questions is easier than the last handful of multiple-choice questions. If you’re having trouble, go ahead and skip to the grid-in questions. On your second pass, go back to the first question you circled. Use everything in your math toolbox and answer the ones first that you’re most comfortable with. Within the last 30 seconds, answer the remaining multiple-choice questions that are blank (bubble in any answer) and write down an answer for the grid-in questions. There is no point deduction for incorrect answers!
Use the process of elimination – Look to eliminate answer choices and you’ll have a better chance in getting the question correct. Consider values in the problem and use logic to your advantage.
Draw in your test book – Test booklets include extra white space. Use the space around the problem and to the sides. Write down steps, draw a chart, label the sides of shapes, and strike out incorrect answers. You can even rewrite important numbers or phrases. This helps reduce careless mistakes and justifies answers.
Don’t erase computations in your test book – This is a big waste of time. You can cross out calculations that you no longer want to consider. This is faster than trying to erase with your pencil, especially if you’ve written out a long formula.
Information that is irrelevant – On occasion, you’ll find that a certain SAT math question contains information that is not required. This piece of information doesn’t have anything to do with solving the problem. This can make students second guess themselves. If you’ve solved the problem without using the piece of information in question; chances are that you’ve solved the problem correctly. Put a star or X next to information that may not be required.
Re-check your work, but do it efficiently – Perform a quick spot check after each section. It’s better to do this at the end of each problem then at the end of the entire section. The SAT contains “attractor answers” that lure students into picking a false answer. They seem correct to the student because the student doesn’t fully understand the problem. Tip: Use your calculator to verify the answer. Plug in the answer to see if it fits into the equation. Make sure you answered the question correctly and not just a step towards finding the answer.
Turn algebraic expressions into solid numbers – Most of the SAT math problems can be solved by picking your numbers for certain variables. It’s good to know what types of questions can be solved this way. This approach works well with problems that have variables as their answer choices. When you pick your own numbers, you’ll be able to turn algebraic expressions into solid numbers. For example, a problem involving minutes or seconds, you might try utilizing the number 60.
Plug in answer choices – Plugging in numbers is a useful SAT math strategy. Try solving a problem in the reverse direction, by plugging in the provided answer choices. Doing so, will help tackle the more difficult questions. Plugging in is also beneficial on word problems.
Don’t forget about your calculator – Your calculator is only allowed on one of the two SAT math sections. About half of the questions on the calculator allowed section really require one. The calculator will find graphing points for you and take care of fractions. The best calculators approved by the College Board will let you compute trigonometric functions and setup graphing plots. Check the College Board website calculator policy section for more details.
Grid-in questions – There are 13 total grid-in questions. Grid-in questions progress from easy to difficult. Students should always answer the easier grid-ins before attempting the more difficult grid-ins. Make sure the ovals are filled in correctly. Grid-in answers will never be a negative number. Some grid-in questions have more than one correct answer. The student must enter in mixed numbers as improper fractions or decimals. Always start with the far left grid-in column!
___________________________________________________________________
Prep with us for a spring ACT or SAT and receive 3 one-to-one test prep hours for free. Please contact us to learn more.
We are here to support! As we handle the academics, this gives you time to ensure they are ready for “the world”. See our website for more info on tutoring and test prep during the pandemic.
Mock Testing is the Best Prep
CONTACT US FOR A FREE PRACTICE TEST PACKET AND DIAGNOSTIC REPORT (VIEW SAMPLE STUDENT REPORTS: ACT, SAT, SSAT, ISEE, AND HSPT).
Vint Hill Educational Services offers mock tests for the ACT and SAT. These are taken in a group setting to simulate the testing environment. For the ACT and SAT, we will review the scores to see which test the student is scoring higher on. Since all colleges and universities accept both tests, it's beneficial to know if your child is scoring higher on the ACT or SAT. Check out our ACT versus SAT comparison chart for test differences. Sometimes the difference is like night and day, and for others, it may be a hairline higher on one versus the other. The student won't know which test is better, unless the individual takes one of each. We'll use our score concordance chart in order to make a test recommendation.
2020-2021 MOCK ACT/SAT TEST DATES
AS OF AUGUST 2020, WE WILL BE PROCTORING TESTS VIRTUALLY ON SATURDAY MORNINGS AT 9:00 AM. UPON REGISTERING FOR A VIRTUAL MOCK TEST, YOU’LL RECEIVE A TEST PACKET VIA USPS MAIL.
PACKET INCLUDES:
ACT/SAT ANSWER SHEET
ACT/SAT TEST BOOKLET
*ACT/SAT ESSAY PROMPT
FOUR PAGES OF LINED PAPER
TEST INSTRUCTIONS
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We also offer one-to-one mock testing at our offices. This consists of a full-length practice test for your child. Tests include: ACT, SAT, PSAT, SSAT, ISEE, HSPT, and SAT Subject Tests. We provide the test booklet, essay booklet, answer sheet, testing timer, calculator, and pencils.
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Mock testing for the ACT and SAT, held in a group setting. Parents will receive a diagnostic score report and phone consultation. View sample student score reports: ACT and SAT.
For the ACT and SAT, we will compare scores in order to determine which test is better for the student to take. See virtual mock test dates above for the 2020-2021 school year.
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One-to-one testing at our offices or in-home testing proctored by a parent. A perfect fit for students that need to get acclimated to the test format, structure, and timing. This can help to relieve nervousness and anxiety. Parents have the option of administering the test to their child for free. They can also choose to drop their student off at our offices and we will administer the test to the student. Parents will receive a diagnostic score report from our testing software. View sample reports: ACT, SAT, SSAT, ISEE, and HSPT. An individual test scores comparison chart is provided for the ACT and SAT.
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Last Chance to Take the SAT in 2019
ACT/SAT Test Day Checklist
Managing Time Wisely on the SAT
Improving Your ACT Math Score
TOP 5 WAYS TO IMPROVE YOUR ACT MATH SCORE
ACT Math is a real challenge for some test-takers. Sometimes, even students who pride themselves on their math skills can be caught off-guard by the ACT. Below are five tips to help you improve your ACT Math score, whether you’re a “math person” or not.
TIP #1: BE ATTENTIVE TO DETAIL
Noticing small details is essential to scoring well in ACT Math. So many ACT students will say they missed math questions due to “stupid mistakes.” In these so-called “stupid” mistakes, test-takers see all the information in a math problem, but they fail to properly recognize certain details.
ACT Math loves to test your ability to notice and correctly interpret every number, symbol, word, or graphic in a math problem. As you practice for the test, teach yourself to scan ACT Math questions for small-but-important-details, such as decimal points, math signs, the wording of story problems, and the components of graphs and charts.
TIP #2: APPROACH MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTIONS STRATEGICALLY
There is no numeric entry in ACT Math, just multiple choice. The correct answer to each math problem will be right in front of you, among the answer choices. When you’re not sure of the right answer, you can always find the correct response by thinking logically and strategically. Learn how to eliminate incorrect answers, and learn the different ways in which ACT Math likes to trick you with tempting-but-wrong choices.
TIP #3: RESEARCH GOOD ACT PREP MATERIALS
Not all ACT prep materials are created equal. A good set of prep materials for ACT Math is important—think helpful tutorials, good advice, and useful practice materials. Check the official ACT website for helpful advice, tools, and resources.
TIP #4: LEARN TO MINIMIZE CALCULATOR USE
Yes, the ACT lets you use a calculator on the test, yet excessive reliance on a calculator can be a trap! Sometimes mental math or estimation can get you to the right answer almost instantly—much faster than you could if you keyed every step into your calculator. Also remember that writing a few problem steps on scrap paper increases your accuracy. It’s pretty easy to hit the wrong number on a calculator keypad, but much harder to actually write down the incorrect number (and reread it a few times without catching it). Always think carefully about whether you really need that calculator, and look for ways to avoid calculator use.
TIP # 5: KNOW WHAT’S ON THE MATH TEST, AND PRACTICE EVERY SKILL
The #1 mistake students make is not dedicating enough time to all the math topics tested on the ACT. Don’t make this mistake! Especially when there are so many resources guiding you in the right direction.
The five most frequently tested ACT math topics are Pre-algebra, Elementary Algebra, Intermediate Algebra, Plane Geometry, and Coordinate Geometry. Prioritize topics that give you problems, and give the ones that come easily to you a break. With the right preparation, you’ll be that much closer to reaching your target ACT score.
Should you need any help raising your ACT math score, please contact us and send a message!
5 Must-Know SAT Math Tips
Your SAT Test Day is approaching, and you need SAT Math tips and strategies to maximize your score. Remember that your SAT Math subscores will reflect how you perform on specific questions tied to The Heart of Algebra, Passport to Advanced Math, and Problem Solving and Data Analysis concepts.
SAT Math Tip #1: Use this approach to answer every SAT math question
Step 1: Read the question, identifying and organizing important information as you go
• What information am I given?
• Separate the question from the context.
• How are the answer choices different?
• Should I label or draw a diagram?
Step 2: Choose the best strategy to answer the SAT Math question
• Look for Patterns.
• Pick numbers or use straightforward math.
Step 3: Check that you answered the right question
• Review the question stem.
• Check units of measurement.
• Double-check your work.
SAT Math Tip #2: Use this method for multi-part Math questions
Step 1: Read the first question in the set, looking for clues.
Step 2: Identify and organize the information you need.
Step 3: Based on what you know, plan your steps to navigate the first question.
Step 4: Solve, step-by-step, checking units as you go.
Step 5: Did I answer the right question?
Step 6: Repeat for remaining questions, incorporating results from the previous question if possible.
SAT Math Tip #3: Translate words into math
Translate the words in the question into math so you can solve.
SAT Math Tip #4: Review number properties and SAT math relationships
Recognizing number properties will save you time on Test Day. Number properties rules include odds and evens, prime numbers, and the order of operations. You can pick numbers to help you remember the rules.
For SAT math relationships, knowing the difference between ratios, proportions, and percents can save valuable time. Being able to move easily among percents, fractions, and decimals will also save time.
SAT Math Tip #5: Make sure your calculator is allowed and bring it with you on Test Day.
Check the official SAT website to make sure the calculator you plan to use on the SAT math section is allowed.
Contact us to learn how we can help increase your SAT math score!
Preparing for AP Exams
Are you ready for your AP Exams? May is a hectic month with tests, finals, and school events, so prepping for your APs early and often will ensure you’ll do your best on these important tests. Here are tips to help you put together your perfect review strategy.
When should I start studying for AP Exams?
Many students start shifting to AP prep mode 1 to 3 months before test day, usually ramping up by spring break. The goal is it give yourself enough time to get used to AP question types, take a few practice tests, review content, and hone your test-taking strategy.
The good news is that all your hard work for your AP classes is setting a great foundation for the AP test. Use your old tests and quizzes to track where you need to strengthen your knowledge and what topics you already know well.
How to study for multiple APs at once:
If you are taking more than one AP test this May, it’s important that you start early and make a schedule to map out your time. To come up with your study plan, ask yourself:
- How many days/weeks/months away are my exams?
- What time of day is my best, most focused study time?
- How much time per day/week/month will I devote to preparing for each exam?
- When will I prep? (Be as specific as possible: "Mondays & Wednesdays from 3 to 4 p.m. I will study for AP Bio," for example.)
Studying in small chunks keeps the workload manageable, so try to stick to one AP subject per night.
How to Study for AP Exams:
1. Start with old material. Begin by reviewing the material you have already completed in class. Set aside 15 minutes or so each evening to review past work. Refreshing your memory on a regular basis is the best strategy for effective learning.
2. Approach new material with the AP test in mind. You can’t just forget the material once you’ve been graded on it! The AP exam will be the culmination of the entire year. As you master new material, take a few minutes to make notes that you’ll use later for AP Exam review. Highlight the important points of each lesson while it’s still fresh in your mind, and note the areas where you struggled.
3. Don’t overly rely on your high school teacher. Your teacher’s job is to ensure all the subject material is covered—not to help you study. There often isn’t enough time during class to teach the material AND do a thorough review by May.
4. Invest in an AP prep book. A great test prep book will help you review essential content, introduce you to test format and question types, and help you practice for the big day.
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SSAT Tips and Strategies
A good SSAT test prep program will strengthen underlying skills, instill confidence, and help students reach their full potential. Successful test-taking not only encompasses the necessary academic skills, but also the understanding of how to take standardized tests. Utilizing a two-pass approach, pacing drills, process of elimination, plugging in the answer choices, and question recognition, are all ways to help increase your score. Having a tips and strategies toolbox will help the student be in control of the test. View the SSAT test format.
• Guess if you can eliminate 2 answer choices on easy or medium questions. Guess on hard questions if you can eliminate 3 answer choices.
• Attractor answers are most common towards the end of a section.
• The student receives 1 minute per question on the reading section.
• The student receives 30 seconds per question on the verbal section.
• The student receives 72 seconds per question on both math sections.
SSAT Math:
• Half of the math questions are arithmetic and about one-fifth are Geometry based.
• If the problem doesn't say “not drawn to scale” then estimate by looking at it.
• Use numbers that are easy to work with when plugging in for variables.
• If you think a question will take more than 72 seconds, circle it, and come back to it later.
• Watch out for sudden measurement changes. For example, the chart lists yards and the answers are given in feet.
SSAT Verbal:
• Review the tested word and find the correct definition.
• The answers may also use a secondary definition.
• Examine the word for roots, prefixes, and suffixes.
• Does the word sound positive or negative?
• For analogies, build a sentence with the word to understand the relationship.
• Eliminate answer choices with no relation and that seem weak in their relationship.
SSAT Reading:
• Spend the first minute looking for “easy” passages to tackle.
• Reading is the only section that doesn’t progress from easy to difficult.
• Usually, the very first sentence will be the main idea.
• Read at a strong pace, but do not re-read.
• Try not to worry about rushing through passages.
• Don’t move onto the next passage, until you answer all of the current passage questions.
• If you’re running short on time, look for the questions that ask for a definition.
Contact us regarding test prep for the SSAT, including a free diagnostic report!
ACT Science Overview
Format:
• 40 questions
• Multiple-choice
• 4 answer choices
• Passages with charts/diagrams
Content:
• Biology
• Chemistry
• Physics
• Geology
• Astronomy
• Meteorology
Time: 35 minutes
The ACT science section does not test specific science facts. Instead, students will need to understand how to use certain skills of scientific reasoning. Nearly every question can be answered by referring to the material in the passage. Yet, somewhere between 1 and 5 questions on every ACT test, will concentrate on science-based knowledge not given in the passages. There will be a few questions that require some arithmetic. You may have to find an average or utilize your algebra knowledge.
Question types and scoring
Students receive 1 raw point for every correct answer. There’s nothing lost for answering incorrectly. The raw score is calculated by tallying up the raw points. The overall raw score is then converted to a score on a 1-36 point scale. The ACT science score is 1 of 4 scores that's factored into the ACT composite. The ACT composite is an average of 4 section scores. Meaning, a lower science score will bring down the ACT composite, and a higher score, will help to increase the ACT composite. This, of course, relies on the scores from the other ACT sections: English, reading, and mathematics.
Each ACT test contains:
• 6-8 Conflicting Viewpoints questions. These questions will present two or more scientific theories. Amongst all of the theories, not all of them can be correct. The questions may not ask you to prove which theory is correct, but instead, ask you to describe the viewpoints and how they relate to one another.
• 12-16 Data Representation questions. These questions usually present charts and tables that display different variables. Students will find 2-4 variables and must be able to describe the relationships between the variables.
• 18-22 Research Summary questions. These questions describe an experiment and the scientific findings. The passage will detail the results, makeup, and hypothesis. The questions will ask you about the experiment’s findings, design, and implementation.
Every ACT test will include the same set of instructions for the science section. Master the instructions and you won’t need to read them when taking the test. This enables you to spend more time on the problems by skipping the instructions.
ACT SCIENCE DIRECTIONS: There are seven passages in this test. Each passage is followed by several questions. After reading a passage, choose the best answer to each question and fill in the corresponding oval on your answer document. You may refer to the passages as often as necessary. You are NOT permitted to use a calculator on this test.
Attractor answers
Watch out for attractor answer choices. The ACT anticipates the student making careless mistakes. The test will setup traps for students, and those most impacted, will be students who are not ready for them. The attractors mainly show up on medium to difficult questions.
ACT science tips:
• Focus on one passage at a time
• Learn which types of passages come easier for you
• Tailor your strategies to each passage type
• Don’t worry if the subject is unknown to you. Most of the information is in the passage.
• Work on timing and pacing by practicing passages
• Know the directions, so that you can skip them
• You have 52 ½ seconds per question
• Adjust your pacing to the passage types
o Data Representation passages: spend 4 minutes
o Research Summary passages: spend 5 minutes
o Conflicting Viewpoints passages: spend 7 minutes
SAT Math Overview
Format
58 total questions
25-minute no-calculator section (20 questions)
55-minute calculator section (38 questions)
Contains multiple-choice and grid-in questions
Content
Problem Solving and Data Analysis (19 questions) sample topics: percents, proportions, and statistics
Heart of Algebra (17 questions) sample topics: algebraic equations, systems of equations, graphs of linear equations, and linear models
Passport to Advanced Math (16 questions) sample topics: functions, quadratic equations, and polynomials
Additional Topics in Math (6 questions) sample topics: angles, triangles, circles, trigonometry, and complex numbers
Tips
- Put time and energy into questions within your capabilities.
- Don’t waste time on a hard question when there are still easier questions left to answer.
- Be sure to check your answers on harder questions. Suspect an answer that comes a little too easily.
- In each math section, consider doing the first few grid-ins prior to doing the last few multiple-choice questions.
- The questions on the calculator section are usually more complex than the ones on the no-calculator section.
Scoring
You’ll receive a math section score on a 200-800 point scale. Also, you'll receive a second math section score, but weighted on a 10-40 scale. There are three math subscores: Heart of Algebra, Problem Solving and Data Analysis, and Passport to Advanced Math. The three math subscores will be reported to you on a 1-15 scale for each. Additionally, some math questions will count towards a cross-test score. There are two reported cross-test scores, one for Analysis in Science and one for Analysis in History/Social Studies.
Your score is calculated using the following: 1 raw point for a correct answer. There is no penalty for answering incorrectly, so you should answer every question on the SAT. Your raw score is calculated by adding up your raw points. Your raw score is converted to a scale math test score from 10-40. The score you receive on the 10-40 scale is converted to a math section score from 200-800.
Tackling SAT Grid-In Questions
13 of the 58 math questions are grid-ins. There are 5 at the end of the no-calculator section and 8 at the end of the calculator allowed section.
- Grid-in questions are like multiple-choice questions, but they do not contain multiple-choice answers to choose from.
- Grid-in questions progress in level of difficulty. The first grid-in question will be much easier than the last grid-in question. For some students, it is best to answer the grid-in questions first before attempting the most difficult multiple-choice questions.
- You should always write your answers in the boxes even though you only receive credit for bubbling in the ovals.
- Start gridding in the far-left column first.
- Grid-in questions will never have negative numbers as answers.
- You should grid-in mixed numbers as improper fractions or decimals.
- If you grid-in an answer as a decimal, you should do so with the highest degree of accuracy possible. For example, an answer of 0.6666 should be gridded as .666 or .667 or 2/3. If you gridded .66 or .67 your answer will be marked incorrect.
- You may find that some grid-in questions have more than one answer. You need to grid-in just one of the correct answers.
- Always check your work. With the grid-in questions, there are no answer choices provided to check against your answer. Be sure to check your work before filling in your answer.
Contact us to learn more about our SAT prep program!
Conquer SAT Reading Passages
The SAT reading test measures the student’s skills in reading, comprehension, and analysis. The passages are 500-750 words and the questions are divided into three areas: synthesis, rhetoric, and information/ideas. The SAT reading test contains 5 total passages and each passage has 10-11 questions. The student has an average of 13 minutes to spend on each passage. It’s best for the student to spend about 5 minutes reading the passage and 45 seconds to answer each question. The passages range from high school to college level content.
Important tips to consider while reading SAT passages:
- Ask yourself questions while you read.
- Understand the question first then look at the answer choices.
- Review to make sure you’ve found the best answer. Usually, SAT reading passages will contain a few answer choices that seem right, but they’re not the correct answer. Most of the difficult questions will try and throw you off.
As you read the passage, be sure to stay engaged. Don’t read the passage passively and wait for information to come to you. Try to think about what the author is saying. Ask questions about the passage. Also, be sure to map out the passage by finding a main idea for each paragraph. Ask yourself: Why did the writer choose to write about this topic? If you come across a paired passage, read the first passage and then answer the questions pertaining to it. Next, read the second passage and answer the questions that follow. Lastly, answer the questions that go over both passages.
SAT reading passage strategies:
- Don’t skim over the passage.
- Focus on one question at a time.
- Use the two-pass approach.
- Don’t read the questions before reading the passage.
Each SAT reading test includes the following:
- 1 U.S and World Literature passage (from classic and contemporary)
- 2 History/Social Studies passages (from founding documents and political life)
- 2 Science passages (from historical discoveries in Earth science, chemistry, biology, and physics)
Attacking the SAT reading test:
- Read the passage first. Resist the urge to rush ahead. Taking time to read the passages thoroughly will pay off in the end. Students must actively read the passage first.
- Don’t skim the passages. The reading questions require a strong understanding of the passage. Students must understand the author’s role and perspectives. A brief look is not enough to answer the questions with accuracy.
- Only read one passage at a time. Answer all questions pertaining to a specific passage before moving forward. In order to maximize your score, spend your time focusing on the easier questions first. Each question is worth 1 raw point, regardless of the level of difficulty.
- Focus on a single question at a time. Don’t feel the pressure to rush through the test. Relax and don’t think about the next passage. Be patient and you will find yourself working more accurately.
Vint Hill Educational Services offers one-to-one SAT prep focused on the individual. Our program is customized and designed for each unique student. Unlike a group SAT prep class, we concentrate on individual student needs.
Learn more about our SAT prep program.