Here at Prep Expert, we’ve helped thousands of students improve their SAT and ACT scores and earn more than $100 million in scholarships. These students come from all kinds of backgrounds and academic situations. No matter where you go to school or what kind of student you are, you can improve your standardized test scores and your chances of getting into your dream school.

When you’re just starting out with test preparation, it can feel really overwhelming. That’s why I want to share some insights into the actual student experience. I designed Prep Expert’s courses for real students to get real results, and I’m proud to share Austin’s experience with you now.

Q and A with Austin

Q: What strategies or techniques you learned during your Prep Expert prep course did you find most effective? How did these strategies contribute to your score improvement?

One of my favorite new ways is the BOSS method. It’s an easy way to help apply your mind while doing Reading and Writing Questions. It’s a step by step process to write your own response to the question and comparing it to the given answers. 

Q: Can you share any insights into the structure or format of the prep course that you believe were particularly beneficial for your learning process?

The information taught in the classes alternated each class between Reading and Writing Strategies and Math Strategies. This, as well as the provided modules done before the next class helped keep myself engaged while switching between subjects.

Q: In what ways did the prep course materials (such as practice tests, study guides, or online resources) enhance your understanding of the test content and improve your performance?

The practice tests were the easiest ways to both experience real SAT questions and challenges, as well as a way to apply my newly learnt information and strategies.

Q: Were there any unexpected challenges you faced during ACT/SAT prep process, and how did the prep course assist you in overcoming them?

As a Freshman in highschool, going into my Sophomore year, there were some advanced concepts that I hadn’t learned yet. However, my instructor helped teach the basics of those concepts with the strategies, as though none of us in the class didn’t know them, and that really helped those who really didn’t know those things, such as myself.

Q: Can you describe any notable differences in your confidence level or test-taking approach before and after completing the prep course? How did the course help build your confidence and test-taking skills?

I’ve always been a shy test taker, and one of the tests I’ve always been scared of is the SAT because of what’s said about it. However now I’ve realized that with such simple strategies that are overlooked often, the SAT can be conquered, as well as any other tests I my encounter.

Q: Did the prep course provide effective strategies for managing test anxiety or stress? If so, how did these strategies impact your performance on test day?

All of my tests I’ve done at school have a time stamp for when the test is over and a clock nearby in the room. However the practice SAT’s were the first to have a ticking timer right next to the questions. Despite giving the option to cover up the timer, many don’t even notice the option, just the timer itself. This strategy showed me the simplicity of these strategies yet their effectiveness while test taking. 

Q: Did you find the course materials and instruction methods engaging and suitable for your needs?

I have the Text Book with all the strategies that is went over in the classes. Those classes aren’t meant to explain those strategies in detail but to review them to be used in the following modules and SAT practice tests. The book is a great way to understand the concepts before, during, and after the class so I’ll never forget what I’ve learned.

Q: Looking back on your experience with the Prep Expert course, what advice would you offer to other students considering similar programs to improve their scores?

If there’s one thing anyone should know before taking a class like this is that despite the apparent simplicity of the strategies provided, these strategies are effective. They have been made for this by professionals, so it’s wise to follow through with the class and your instructors as this information is some of the most valuable you’ll get during your school years.

Student Experience Takeaways

When you look at student experiences like Austin’s, you can get a better sense of what the right test prep techniques can do for you. Studying for standardized tests isn’t just rote memorization in one study area; it involves techniques and a skill that anyone can learn. And the payoffs are immense.

When you practice preparing for these exams, you can reduce your testing anxiety, feel more comfortable with the time limits, and learn important skills that can help you maximize your chances of success– even if you aren’t sure what the answer to a question actually is. Standardized tests don’t just test your knowledge. They also test your ability to think critically, solve problems, and react quickly in uncertain situations. A good test prep class will teach you how to evaluate test questions and spot patterns that can lead to better odds of success.

With time, practice, and your newfound test-taking skills, you can achieve incredible things. High performance on the ACT and SAT can help you get into college– and your performance can also help you pay for your schooling through scholarships. There’s certainly more to you and your candidacy than just your scores, but it’s silly to think that the scores aren’t important. You’re not just a number, but those numbers can really help attract attention. A high SAT or ACT score grabs an admission committee’s attention and makes them pay more attention to your application. And with more and more top schools reinstating testing requirements, test prep has become more important now than ever before. 

At Prep Expert, we want you to stand out. We want you to hit your goals and get into your top choices. We want to help get you to the college environment where you’ll flourish and thrive, and we know that your standardized test scores are the stepping stones you need to help get you there. Check out our course offerings today to see how you too can score higher and achieve more with your test scores!