Test Preparation
For Entrance exams and assessment tests
If you are preparing to take an entrance examination of any kind, we have put together:
- background information on many of entrance exams
- primer material on how to prepare and what to expect from the SAT, ACT and more
- our best consumer advice on what to look for in test preparation software and programs.
Test preparation is largely mental and emotional. You do have to study hard, and take advantage of test preparation materials, but the real test of all your preparations comes on test day, when you sit down to write. In addition to having studied and prepared thoroughly, you will need:
- a clear mind
- confidence
- good health
The following are some basic guidelines to keep in mind as you begin to prepare for your test.
Schedule your test preparation time
If you have other commitments, you need to think about how your test preparation time is going to fit in your schedule. Most tests will require you to prepare months in advance. Familiarize yourself with all aspects of the test to know what you will need to adequately prepare for the test. You should never feel rushed.
Know what kind of leaner you are
The amount of time that you need might vary from the norm, depending on how fast a learner you are and what else is going on in your life.
Know how well you want to do
You need to be aware of the expectations for the schools or program you aspire to. You may only want to achieve the minimum score to get into the school of your choice. At the other end of the spectrum, your ambition to end up in a top school will mean much more intense preparation work and more thorough research into test preparation options.
The pages of this guide have advice and hints on all major entrance examinations and tests, from the GED to the GRE. We also have richer pages of advice to guide you. These include:
- more test preparation basics
- test preparation on test day
- test preparation online and computer based
Click on the menu to the left or on the links nearby to learn more about the test you are preparing for.
