Your first Digital SAT, SAT, or ACT sitting is coming and you're starting to freak out. I promise you: I've seen it before. Let me talk you through your test day cold feet.
What matters most on a college application...if you're going test-optional?
So, you’re thinking about skipping the ACT or SAT because some (or even all!) of the schools on your list went test-optional during Covid-19. Before you actually commit to skipping, let’s take a look at how it affects the way the rest of your application is evaluated.
The Digital PSAT/NMSQT: Everything You Need to Know
The PSAT is now completely digital, in order to better reflect the new, Digital SAT. But the format isn’t the only thing that’s different for this new version of the test. Read on to learn how the timing of the test has changed, as well as what’s being tested.
What Should You Bring to the Digital SAT, SAT, or ACT?
You’ve studied for months, and now the big day is finally here: you’re about to take the Digital SAT, SAT or the ACT. But all of that hard prep work will be wasted effort if you show up to the testing room without the supplies you need to rock the test! Never fear: I’ve made you a checklist of the 7-9 essential items you should bring with you when you take the ACT or SAT, now with updated info on what you should bring to the Digital SAT, too.
SAT and ACT: Strategy vs. Content Sections
Knowing which sections of the ACT and SAT are content sections and which are strategy sections will help you target your test prep, hit your score goals, and open the door to that dream school!
Math Etiquette VI: Math...Vocabulary?
Math is all numbers, right? Nope. Reading is fundamental—even when we're talking the fundamentals of math, like we do in math etiquette. In this last post of my “Math Etiquette” series, I’ll gloss some key terms for you!
Your 5-Step Plan to Beat the Sophomore Slump
Feeling doomy and gloomy as you head in to tenth grade? With my five tips, you can turn Sophomore year from a bummer into an asset, AND start making yourself a better candidate for college down the line.
How to Write Your Common App Activities List
Everyone knows that the Activities List is a super important section of the Common App…so why do so many people waste the opportunity to maximize its impact? Let me show you how to avoid that pitfall with these six steps to a winning Activities List.
The Best Strategy for SAT and ACT “Big Picture” Reading Questions
Both the SAT and ACT ask “big picture” reading questions, so lots of tutors and test prep companies try to prepare you to answer them. In this post, I’m reviewing the strategies that you’ve probably heard before…and sharing the simple and effective one that works for my students, which I bet you haven’t!
Math Etiquette V: Divide and Conquer
Division doesn't have to get you down—not when you do it the math etiquette way! Here are three ways of understanding division that will let you take on No Calculator Math (or any math section!) with confidence and accuracy.
What's New on the Common App?: 2023-2024 edition
Can you feel the magic in the air? Today’s the day that the Common App officially opens for business! Some applicants may not realize that the Common App has changed since last year. Don't sweat if that's you—this week's free blog post is here to explain what's different, and how those differences should affect YOUR approach to the application.
How to Answer the Common App Question about COVID in 2023
The 2020-2021 Common Application features a brand-new question about your experience during the global COVID-19 pandemic. How do you approach that question? What should you say about your pandemic experience…and what SHOULDN’T you say? I’m breaking it down for you.
Top Tips for Campus Visits!
If you approach your college visits proactively, you can come home from them WAY further along in your application process than you left. Here's how.
Multiplication to Know for SAT No-Calculator Math (Math Etiquette IV)
Yes, I have favorite multiplication tricks. And after you realize how much time and how many errors they can save you on the SAT and ACT, so will you!
Affirmative Action Supreme Court Decision: Does the Class of 2025 Have to Take the SAT or ACT?
You’ve surely heard the huge college admissions news by now: no more race-conscious affirmative action. Considering this change, should the Class of 2025 and younger plan on taking the SAT and ACT?
5 Pieces of Info You Need to Create Your SAT/ACT Study Strategy
This post will take you from the basics to some advanced test-prep moves! I’m walking you through the five pieces of information you need for a winning test-prep strategy—and how to put them together into a plan that will open doors at your dream schools.
Should I Use the Coalition App or the Common App?
If you’re a high school Senior (or younger), the Common App and Coalition App can save you a TON of time on your college applications. But what are the differences between these two options, exactly—and which is the better fit for YOU? This blog post brings you the answers.
What to Do if You Didn't Take the June ACT
The June ACT date used to be an absolute must-take. Over the past few years, shifts in the testing schedule have changed that…for SOME students. Which juniors are probably fine if they skipped the June 10 ACT, and what should you do if you’ve already opted to sit it out? Read on to find out.
Fractions on the SAT and ACT (Math Etiquette III)
Sure, you know how to cross-multiply (or, uh...do you?). But do you really GET fractions? Save time, stress, and effort on the SAT and ACT with my fraction guide.
“Vocab in Context” Questions on the SAT and ACT
Vocab in Context Questions pop up on several sections of the SAT AND the ACT. Learning how to answer them will net you a big point payoff. Follow these four simple steps to ace them…the Ivy Lounge way.
