How To Make Changes To Your Study Method And Improve SAT Scores

Taking practice tests is a good way to check on your study methods. If you have been studying for the

SAT consistently and your scores don’t improve over time, you may need to change your study methods.

Approach your changes scientifically. Try one or two changes at a time to discover what works. Do you

feel more focused? Are you retaining more material? Do your sessions feel more productive? These are

questions you should ask yourself to determine whether or not you are using the best study methods for

you.

Space

Try studying in a new space. When you find a space that works for you, use that space for every study

session. Using the same space when you study will signal to your brain that it is time to focus and learn.

Time

Try studying for more or less time or at different times during the day. Sometimes studying too long will

prevent your brain from retaining important information. You should also try to space your study well. Cal

Newport suggests that one day is the optimal spacing between study sessions. So instead of studying for

3 hours once a week, try studying for 30 minutes everyday.

Distractions

If you are still studying with your phone notifications clambering for your attention, stop. Turn off your

phone and hide it so you what be tempted to look at it. 30 minutes of phone free study time is much more

productive than hours of interrupted studying. Don’t forget to turn off music or the tv as well.

Tools

Computers and Apps can offer some very helpful study tools. However, some research suggests that

people do their best learning with pencil and paper. If you find that you are not retaining information, turn

of the technology and start making your own flashcards and working out word problems on paper.

Evaluation

When you don’t feel like your study is working to improve your scores, evaluate what might be holding

you back. Don't be afraid to try new methods and techniques. The more practice tests you can take the

better understanding you will have of how effective your study methods are. When you are willing to make

changes and study productively, you can improve your SAT scores.

 

More About Mr. Test Prep’s Menlo Park SAT Test Prep Services

 

Since 1997, Mr. Test Prep has run the #1 Menlo Park SAT Prep program. By combining the benefits of private SAT instruction with the strengths of a group testing environment, Mr. Test Prep offers the best of both worlds: one-on-one attention, experienced academic counseling, group testing and a personal bond. By hosting this in a semi-group environment, Mr. Test Prep prepares his students for a real-world test experience. High school students who use his Menlo Park SAT Prep services will be equipped with the tools they need to succeed in the highly competitive world of standardized testing.

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How To Eliminate Burn Out While Studying For SATs – Cupertino SAT Prep

 

Studying for the SATs is overwhelming, especially when you already have a busy schedule. Squeezing in

a few more minutes of studying can send you over the edge and leave you feeling burnt out. When you

are experiencing burn out your grades can suffer, you won’t feel prepared for the SAT and your

extracurriculars may begin to feel like a burden. Here are three ways to eliminate burn out when you are

preparing for the SATs.

Prioritize

Keeping track of your time can be a huge challenge when you are juggling so many things. It can help to

chart out when you have big projects due, important tournaments and significant family events so that you

can prepare accordingly. You can even chart out your days to determine when you have time for

homework and when you have time for studying for the SATs. Advanced preparation will prevent the need

to cram, which can significantly reduce your stress level.

Make Time for Fun

Prioritizing will also help you plan time for fun. Spending time relaxing or hanging out with friends can help

you unwind a bit. It is important to let your brain have a change of pace every now and then so that you

can stay focused when it is time to work. Even if you are not physically exhausted, your brain can become

exhausted and requires rest. Schedule in little breaks, as well as longer breaks to stay focused and

productive.

Get Help

Choose an SAT prep service that will help you feel confident and give you the tools you need, rather than

contribute to feeling overwhelmed and behind. Mr. Test Prep does not require homework, allowing

students to use their sessions to the fullest and not become bogged down with additional work. Taking

advantage of professional help can make the SATs feel a less overwhelming and give you the confidence

you need to perform well on the exam.

As you prepare, don’t over do it. Plan your study sessions well in advance so that you are not stuck

cramming. Get plenty of sleep and make sure you are taking care of yourself so that you don’t feel

anxious and exhausted. It is important to be healthy both mentally and physically on the day of the exam.

If you are experiencing burn out, take a break and enlist the help you need.’

Cupertino SAT Prep

Students generally dread test prep classes. They’re boring, difficult and pointless, or so most kids think. But they’re also necessary… Recognizing this, Mr. Test Prep has created a new approach to SAT/ACT tutoring that gets the job done without all the pain and frustration of traditional programs. Rather than depleting the finite well of motivation your student will need to get you through senior year, come to Mr. Test Prep for the most painless—dare I say fun?—SAT Prep in the Cupertino area. Specializing in the psychology of test taking, as well as the academic practices required to succeed, the lessons learned at our Cupertino SAT Prep center will empower your student both on Test Day and in their future academic endeavors.

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Why Skipping Breakfast On The Day Of Your SATs Is Not A Good Idea

Test day jitters or running late might make breakfast challenging on exam day, but you really don’t want to

skip it. Breakfast is a power meal and it can influence your entire day and even your exam score.

Low Blood Sugar

According to an article by WebMD, your blood sugar is low when you wake up after not eating all night.

Breakfast replenishes your blood sugar, which helps your brain function well. It also boosts your

metabolism and gives you the energy you need to stay focused for the entire exam.

Distractions

Don’t let hunger distract you. If you skip breakfast, your body will be hungry long before you are done with

the exam. Hunger can make you uncomfortable and occupy your mind when you should be focusing on

the exam. Hunger can even cause headaches or make you nauseated, both will be detrimental to your

performance.

Make It Last

Choose a breakfast that is high in protein. Eggs, sausage, bacon, cheese or even nuts are good choices

for a breakfast on exam day. Protein helps your body slow down the rate at which it processes blood

sugar. This means you will have energy longer and will help you feel full longer. Don’t forget to pair carbs

with your protein. Have a bowl of cereal, toast or fruit in addition to protein because that will provide the

energy your body requires. A sugary breakfast, made up of only carbs, such as a pancake or a PopTart

will give you a burst of energy, but it will be used up quickly, before you are done with the exam.

Caffeine

You may also want to drink a cup of coffee or tea with your breakfast. A little bit of caffeine can help your

brain focus. If you are a regular coffee drinker, don’t skip it. However, if you don’t normally drink caffeine,

you will want to try it a few times first. Don’t introduce it for the first time on the day of your exam.

A Plan

It is important to eat breakfast everyday, but it is especially important on exam day. You need energy to

maintain the mental stamina the SATs require. Work with your family to make sure you are awake with

plenty of time to eat. Maybe someone could even make breakfast for you. Don’t let preventable hunger

distract you from performing your best on the SATs.

San Jose SAT Prep

By marrying the best of private instruction with the best of group practice, Mr. Test Prep’s San Jose SAT Prep program supplies students with the resources they need to succeed. Having served San Jose’s SAT Prep needs for the last 18 years, Michael Romano is uniquely qualified to instruct students on the content of the test and advise parents about how best to plan the SAT/ACT season. To learn more, book a Free Diagnostic Session today

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Is Your Child’s Eyesight Impacting Their Study Ability? – Menlo Park SAT Test Prep Services

When children have difficulty doing their homework, focusing on reading, performing well in school or

acting out in class, we often assume that there is some sort of learning disability or behavioral disorder to

blame. However, vision problems can be at the root of many learning and behavioral difficulties.

Screening

Children are screened for 20/20 vision at school, but these tests are not comprehensive. There are many

more issues that can arise with vision beyond visual acuity. Many students don’t know how to

communicate their difficulties with vision and focus because they don’t know that what they see is

different from how other people see. Students with eye problems can have extreme difficulties with

reading and writing.

Indicators

A child that suffers from visual problems may have trouble keeping their place while reading,

remembering what they read, reverse words or have letters that appear to drift across the page. Students

may hold their body in a strange position to read, become very tired while reading and only be able to

read for very short periods of time.

Many children with eye problems go to great lengths to avoid homework. They may feel “stupid” or act out

in school. They may also fall several grade levels behind in reading. These visual problems can manifest

themselves in symptoms that appear similar to Attention Deficit Disorder or Hyperactive Disorder.

Treatment

Fortunately, these problems can be diagnosed and treated. Specialists who are trained to give

comprehensive visual exams can determine whether or not your child has trouble focusing and specific

problem. Treatment is noninvasive and usually requires therapy. Some therapy includes exercises that

can be done at home, while other therapy needs to be conducted by a visual therapist. According to case

studies presented by America’s Angel, many students see significant improvement in their reading

abilities after only a few months of treatment.

Comprehensive Visual Exam

If your child is struggling in school and no diagnosis seems to improve the situation, you may want to

think about getting a comprehensive visual exam. Talk with your child about what it is like to read and

what they are seeing when they read. You may be able to easily resolve their struggle and improve their

school performance.

 

More About Mr. Test Prep’s Menlo Park SAT Test Prep Services

Since 1997, Mr. Test Prep has run the #1 Menlo Park SAT Prep program. By combining the benefits of private SAT instruction with the strengths of a group testing environment, Mr. Test Prep offers the best of both worlds: one-on-one attention, experienced academic counseling, group testing and a personal bond. By hosting this in a semi-group environment, Mr. Test Prep prepares his students for a real-world test experience. High school students who use his Menlo Park SAT Prep services will be equipped with the tools they need to succeed in the highly competitive world of standardized testing.

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5 Books You Should Read To Help With Your SAT – Palo Alto SAT Test Prep

Person taking test

Reading daily is a significant part of your SAT preparation. So much of the exam involves reading comprehension and as you read you are practicing comprehension. Reading will also help build your vocabulary. Every time you pick up a challenging book you will encounter new words. Work to incorporate those words into your everyday vocabulary. Here are five excellent books that will not only help you prepare for the SAT, but also give you the groundwork need for higher education and instill a broader view of the world.

 

• Pride and Prejudice

 

Pride and Prejudice is a classic by Jane Austen. Austen uses engaging characters to question the conventions of her 1813 English society. It still speaks to questions of love, character and expectations. There is so much to enjoy about this book, it will be a pleasure to read. When you are done, you can enjoy one of the many film adaptations of this timeless story.  

 

• Waiting for Godot

 

Waiting for Godot is a play by Samuel Beckett that brings to light human struggle with meaning and purpose. Adding a modern play to your repertoire will challenge you to engage with reading material in a new way.

 

• The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn

 

This book is the perfect read for the summer. An article from the University of Virginia quotes Earnest Hemingway stating ‘it was the “one book” from which “all modern American literature” came.’ This book is an important building block for much of American literature.

 

• Hamlet

 

Any well rounded reading list includes Shakespeare. Working through the language and the depth of the subject matter will transform you into a confident reader. You may even be able to catch this play at a local theater or view one the film adaptations. It is fun to watch a play that you have read come to life.

5) Things Fall Apart

Set in Nigeria, this work grapples with issues that many Africans faced when Europeans arrived. It also brings to light more basic human struggles that everyone faces. Things Fall Apart will allow you to engage with a culture that is not often found on many reading lists.

If you have already tackled these works, go to Good Reads, “101 Great Books Recommended for College-Bound Readers” to find more significant works of literature that you should add to your repertoire.

Palo Alto SAT Test Prep

With over 18 years of experience, Mr. Test Prep operates the premier Palo Alto SAT test prep program. By combining one-on-one SAT tutoring with free SAT practice tests, Mr. Test Prep offers the benefits of private SAT tutoring (focused attention, tailored instruction, a human connection) in a group environment, which prepares the student for the SAT test experience. Students who attend his Palo Alto SAT Test Prep program will see their hard work and dedication reflected in significant score increases. Call Mr. Test Prep today and get prepared!

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4 Tools That Can Improve Your Child’s Study Techniques For Their SATs -Santa Clara SAT Prep

Sitting down and reading a book or plugging away at math problems can become mundane very quickly.

A student that is bored studying or not using very effective study methods for their individual needs may

give up easily. Here are four tools that will help your student efficiently prepare for the SAT.

1) Test Prep Apps

Children constantly use their phones and iPads. You can encourage them to use devices for studying.

There are a variety of test prep apps available ranging from free to $25.00. An article from New York

Times reviews some of the best apps available. You can allow your child screen time feeling confident

that they are using it wisely. Some of the apps track progress so that you can be sure your child is using

their phone to study.

2) Practice Testing

There is no better way to prepare for the exam than a practice test. You can find practice tests online,

available from the College Board. Mr. Test Prep uses practice testing as a significant part of their test prep

methods.

3) Flash Cards

Flash cards may sound old-fashioned, but they are a very effective method of memorization. Flash cards

can be carried easily and used during any moment of free time. The act of making the flashcards also

helps cement the facts in your child’s mind. The repetition flash cards offer is helpful for recalling facts

from memory, even when you are under the pressure of taking the exam.

4) Grammar Skills

Improving grammar skills will help your child on the SAT. Online tools can help your child learn

challenging grammar concepts and refine their grammar knowledge. Grammarbook.com is one site that

offers grammar hints and tips, as well as quizzes to test your child’s grammar knowledge.

These four tools can be effective ways to track your child’s improvement and meet their SAT score goals.

It’s possible that your child may even enjoy studying while using these tools.

Santa Clara SAT Prep

Mr. Test Prep gives his students the deep learning skills they need to perform well on a lifetime worth of tests. At his Santa Clara SAT Prep center, he helps his students overcome years worth of bad mental habits and poor confidence so they’re ready to take on the test and reach their maximum score potential. With a combination of one-on-one and group testing, Mr. Test Prep offers the best of both worlds: experience with the conditions of the test and focused, student-specific instruction.

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4 Incentives You Can Offer That Could Help Your Child Achieve Their SAT- Los Gatos SAT Test Prep Services

 

 

 

Goals

Offering incentives to your child can help them achieve their goals. Often, knowing there is something to

look forward to can help your child put forth some extra effort.

Incentives can be offered in small steps, such as trading screen time for hours spent studying.

Alternatively, one big incentive can be offered when an SAT goal score is achieved. Here are four creative

ideas that can be offered as a big incentive.

1) Money

Don’t just offer to give your child cash. Instead offer to relieve them of a financial responsibility they

usually have. You could pay for gas for the summer or offer them a gift card to their favorite store. You

could get them an iTunes or Amazon gift card that they could look at while they study, but not use until

after the exam.

2) An Experience

Offer to do something crazy with your child. Think about sky diving, surfing or playing at an open mic night

with your child. Not only will you be rewarding your child, but you will be creating a memory together.

Make sure this incentive is something you know your child will enjoy and they know moves you well

beyond your comfort zone.

3) Chores

If your child is required to do specific chores around the house, you can let them have some time off.

Offer them a specific amount of time of from all chores such as no chores for 2 weeks or a longer time off

from one chore, such as no dishes for the whole summer. If you offer this incentive, make sure the whole

family is on board. You don’t want other children feeling like they are picking up the slack. You can also

make it clear that they will be offered a similar reward when it is their turn for the SAT.

4) Social Celebration

Offer your child an opportunity to do something with a group of friends. It could be a camping trip, a dinner

out, or a trip to an amusement park. Let them pick the activity, and offer to take your child and a few of

their friends. Your child will look forward to celebrating their hard work.

Be creative and find an incentive that you know will inspire your child and help them look forward to the

days when the exam is over. Offering a fun incentive can be exciting for both you and your child and will

help them work hard to achieve their SAT goals.

 

More About Mr. Test Prep’s Los Gatos SAT Test Prep Services

Michael Romano has been offering his Los Gatos SAT prep services for almost two decades. He’s seen thousands of kids and helped with just about every kind of standardized testing anxiety a student could have. This has taught him that increased scores come down to confidence. Yes, you have to understand the material, but confidence is—more often than not—the #1 cause of a student’s trouble with testing. Bearing that in mind, he has created an SAT tutoring program that builds confidence by desensitizing his students to the conditions of the test, while providing them with targeted instruction on both the academic content of the exam and the tips and tricks that make it so much easier.

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