August 25, 2003
A: FROM MENTOR CAROL TOMAN IN IL
Yes, SAT prep courses really do work. The type of training you choose
should depend on your learning style. If you have trouble
disciplining yourself without having a schedule, then classroom
training or tutoring might be best but if you're self-motivated, then
self-paced training might suit you better. Unfortunately all the
options you listed are expensive. A more economical approach might be
to visit your library. My local library has many copies of old SAT
and ACT tests to check out and practice with. There are many books
available explaining the strategies for test taking. All the
information taught in prep courses is available "on the open market"
if you're willing to do a tiny bit of digging.

You're also allowed to take the tests multiple times, and only your
best scores are reported to the colleges you indicate. If the test
fee is not a problem, maybe you could plan to take the test one year
early, in sophomore year, as practice for the "real" test in junior
year.

Most colleges that want the SAT-I for entrance also want 2 SAT-II
scores as well. The SAT-I is a general exam covering English and
math. The SAT-II exams are subject matter specific, such as a foreign
language or biology. You get to choose which tests you take; it's
best to pick subjects in which you'll score well, and pick one allied
with your intended major if you know what it will be. The second
SAT-II should be in a subject different from the first test to show
your strength in a breadth of areas. The ACT covers math and English
as well as natural and social science in one test. A perfect score on
the SAT would be 800 in English and 800 in math for a composite score
of 1600. A perfect score on the ACT would be 36 in each subsection
with a composite of 36. It *is* possible to get a perfect score, and
it's not entirely uncommon, although the average is much lower.

The SAT is preferred by colleges on the two coasts while the ACT tends
to be preferred by midwestern colleges, although individual schools
might not follow the pattern. Some schools put a huge emphasis on the
test scores, while others consider the scores but look at the total
package the student offers: grades, activities, and the essays
included in the college application. Check with your guidance office
to get details of the schools you might be interested in.
********************
August 25, 2003
A: FROM MENTOR DIANA DIONISIO IN CA
The SAT prep classes give you tips on how to take the test to make your scores better. There are several strategies that they will teach you so it will help you score. It's all about test taking tips...like educated guessing and readin questions carefully...choosing the best fit answer. Don't forget about SAT II's. I think the subject tests are being looked at more carefully in California. If you want your score to get higher, you might look at Kaplan or Princeton review.