I am currently a high school sophomore and I have taken a practice 2016 SAT test, 2016 ACT Test, and the new PSAT test that is coming out this fall. I already know that I will be taking both the SAT and ACT, but I just need help preparing, and I need ways to increase my score. The first time I took a practice new 2016 SAT (without the writing), was a few weeks ago, and without studying and prepping I got a 1000/1520. I got a 620 on the reading and writing, and a 390 on math. On the practice ACT, I received a composite score of 23/36 (22 English, 24 Math, 25 Reading, 22 Science) without studying. My proctor for the test wanted to meet up with me and she explained the breakdown of both test scores. She said that overall, I just need to review and focus mainly on math. She recognized the fact that I am currently in Algebra II, but I really messed up on the “basic” algebra section. I really do not want an SAT/ACT tutor, since I cannot afford one…what should I do? I am planning to begin studying now, but not overwhelm myself. I saw that Khan Academy is doing the New 2016 SAT prep, so I was planning on watching all of their math videos to help jog my memory of the algebra, and practice. I also found a lot of free online ACT tests, and I think that they should be okay to use for practicing, since the changes of the ACT are not as drastic as the SAT? I am also planning on purchasing many books for practicing etc… Are these ways for prepping viable options? Also PLEASE tell me other ways that you managed to increase your test score. I really would love to hear your stories of how you increased your scores!
Also just a little note: I am a straight A student, but I just am not the best at standardized tests.