By Claire Newfeld

High School is full of fun and memorable activities: prom, school trips, you name it. But if there is one thing that most high school students dread, it is taking standardized tests. The SAT and ACT are the two main college entrance exams required of high school students. However, these tests do not have to result in stress and pressure.

Through proper preparation, one can build up the confidence needed to score high on standardized tests. Mr. J.C. Volgo, who has taught test preparation courses at Tempe Prep since 2002, offers this advice to students: “The main point is that preparation for any standardized test (PSAT, SAT, ACT) should start early, to allow for at least one month of preparation time. The key issue is retention: Even the best prepared students will derive limited benefits from cramming.”

Of course, he says, one can never predict the exact test, but careful preparation can increase retention. “Even the weakest performers can raise their overall scores on all standardized tests by consistently reviewing the same problems multiple times, until they achieve the required standards of speed and accuracy,” Mr. Volgo added.

How should one go about studying for these tests? Many test preparation books are available from highly qualified companies such as College Board, Princeton Review, and Kaplan. Recommended test prep books are listed at the bottom of each high school book list. Students can also prepare by logging onto their Naviance account and clicking on “Method Test Prep 2.0.” On this software, students can choose a 20-week test preparation course for either the SAT or the ACT. (See Mrs. Moffitt for more information on this.) There are many test prep courses offered both online and in person; some are even offered at Tempe Prep.

One should not show up on Test Day and wing it, expecting to obtain a high score. There are many sources out there available to help. All it takes is some effort from you.