<p>My dad told me yesterday that I could buy ONE prep tool for the ACT, because we're shockingly short of money right now. Since then, I've been scouring the internet for any free prep I can get, but I do know that I'll need some proper help. Anyways, I came across ACT Online Prep, and it sounds pretty lucrative from what I can infer. But a lot of my friends said it was utter crap and didn't help them at all, except for giving them two practice tests. They said I'd be better off with the Princeton Review or Kaplan or something like that.</p>
<p>So what should I do? Will the ACT Online Prep be adequate to get a score in the 33-34 arena? Or is it just a waste of 20 bucks? Should I go for what my friends said or do you guys know any better books/online programs? I don't want anything too expensive, my dad's salary is like 40k, we're barely managing to get through with our bills and rent and whatnot. I'm really going crazy!! :(</p>
<p>Any help would be REALLY appreciated! If you guys know ANY good books out there, please do tell! This 34 score is really important to me!</p>
<p>I would personally recommend the Real ACT Prep Guide (The Red Book) because of its five official practice tests. Practice tests are very valuable when preparing for the ACT because the more familiar you are with the test, the better you will score. Practice timing yourself and you will definitely improve your scores.</p>
<p>There are many websites out there that have some good advice, such as SparkNotes. I personally started using March2Success.com, a free site with seven ACT practice tests. </p>
<p>There are many good resources on this forum, so use them! Jeandevaches’ Guide to the ACT is very helpful for certain strategies and advice (Just search the forum for it). Google “ACT Practice Tests” on the forum and there are threads with links to official ACT practice tests.</p>
<p>From my personal experiences, practice tests are the best way to prepare for the ACT. By consistently doing practice tests, you will go in on test day confident that you have prepared well. You will feel more comfortable with the structure of the test, and you won’t be as rushed by the time limits.</p>
<p>Good luck on reaching a 34! I hope you reach your goal and get into your dream school!</p>
<p>Thanks so much! 
March2Success is awesome! Your advice is so much more better any other help I’ve received. :D</p>
<p>I am glad I could help.</p>
<p>One other tip for improving on the ACT: On my first few practice tests, I made the mistake of just doing the questions and not figuring out why I got certain questions wrong. If you want to get a really good score, fully go over your practice tests and dissect the questions so that you know why you are getting certain questions wrong. If you find certain topics and questions that give you trouble, research those topics and practice the questions more. </p>
<p>Be determined and never give up! With a lot of practice and preparation, you can reach that 34!</p>
<p>I also recommend number2.com It has a limited number of questions, but it has helpful information/tips.</p>