I was wondering how different brand ACT practice tests compare to the actual thing. I took part of a Princeton Review and got in the low 30s. My current sat is a 1410 but I should be getting closer to 1500s.
How does the level of PR review compare to the real ACT? I’ve heard that a lot of people tend to score higher on the real ACT than on PR, but I’ve also heard that PR is easier than the real thing.
Also, any other recommended methods of studying for the ACT/ which books to use? Barrons seems to hard (focusing on topics that aren’t on the test) and Kaplan too easy?? What is the best (other than the real ACT practice?)
Something very useful, is when taking practice tests, make sure you do a couple where you are doing all 4 sections in the same sitting, just as you will for the real test. Fatigue can be an issue with these tests, so preparing for that can be important.
Take as many official practice tests as possible. As recommended do one full length but then squeeze in time whenever possible if just one section at a time. Timing is everything so make sure you use a timer – and have ACT approved watch for the actual tests. DS took a course but found he really improved from doing the above. He literally took every official test he could find. First practice test (from Kaplan) was a 31. By the time he was done prepping he was getting 34-35. He ended up taking his first official test on 12/9 and scored a 36. (E35M35R36S36) FWIW - originally science and reading were his lowest practice scores. He stopped prepping several days out and focused on eating well, sleeping well and staying low stress. He was honestly just shooting for a 33-34 for merit purposes.
I agree. @mountainmomof3 Kaplan practice tests were quite unrealistic, but a good thing to do if you want to get a understanding of whats on a test. I congratulate your son for a 36, that’s what I got as well. I took official practice tests as much as possible as well.
Doing official questions are good. IMO, though, practice questions- even if they’re not 100% similar to what’s on the test- are always helpful (especially when you need to work on a specific area- eg a math concept). Just make sure you do a few official tests (I recommend saving at least one) before you take the test- when you start pushing into the final stretch of your prep/feeling finished prepping to get the feel for the actual thing.