Choose a Prep Program

Choosing a program can be daunting.

Test prep is not "one size fits all" - your unique student deserves a program that can play to their strengths and inspire them to work hard.

When choosing the one that's right for your family, consider:

  • Who are you?

What is your student's learning style? Level of motivation? What do they value, and who/what will help them buy in?


  • Who are they?

What does each program value - high scores, student connection, competition, freedom? Prep programs are as varied as the attitudes about testing itself. Choose a program that align with your values.


  • Logistics

How will prep fit into your life? Consider in-person vs. online, budget, and flexibility.

Here's what you might expect from 3 types of test preparation:

test prep tutor

A tutor who specializes in test prep
PROS:
  • Completely individualized
  • Flexible timeline
  • In-person and online
  • Tutors are the ones with the real expertise! Companies create curriculum, but tutors actually teach it to students
  • Tutors are experts in helping students, not just producing scores and protecting business
  • Connect with and care about students
  • Mid-priced


CONS:
  • No score "guarantees"
  • An experienced test prep tutor is more expensive than a typical academic tutor

big companytm

The ones who pay for Google Ads
PROS:
  • Huge amount of practice materials
  • Lots of reviews
  • Responsive customer service
  • Often come with a score "guarantee" to protect your investment


CONS:
  • Most expensive option
  • More investment in curriculum than in tutors (tutors may be smart but not experienced, and always underpaid)
  • Students must be self-directed and willing to learn mostly from digital materials as opposed to customized lessons
  • Cookie-cutter experience
  • In-person options are rare
  • High-anxiety environments; focus is on scores alone

free resources

Online articles, YouTube videos, & Khan Academy
PROS:
  • Free!
  • Khan Academy's SAT platform is partnered with the College Board for accurate, representative practice
  • 10+ official practice tests available online
  • Many quick strategies/"hacks" to try


CONS:
  • No accountability; students must be entirely self-directed
  • No individualized attention
  • "Quick fixes" only go so far
  • Limited legitimate practice questions available
  • Difficult to analyze and interpret progress

Lastly . . .

Why me?

Expert.

I have lived and breathed these tests for over 4 years. And my time has been spent not just analyzing the tests themselves, but translating them for students. I have created the methods and materials I use in response to the shortcomings I see - in real time through students' eyes - in the brand-name curricula on the market.

Human.

A curriculum is only as good as it is user-friendly. Having a person to teach, customize, clarify, and encourage is the most user-friendly method I know.

Holistic.

The SAT & ACT are predictable; teenagers are not. I recognize that these tests are just stepping stones to your student's more exciting, creative future. I can help them stay motivated by appealing to their goals: who they are, not just how they score.

Happy studying!

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