<p>how much did you guys study before taking the act for the first time? I've studied for the SAT in the past, but this time for the ACT I've only studied for a couple of hours and have taken 2 full ACT practice tests. Is this sufficient enough if im hoping for a 28-30 composite??
Just looking for some people with first hand experience switching over from the SAT to the ACT, and the scores they recieved.</p>
<p>I think if you've taken practice tests you should be fine. Just be sure to practice the science section. I did well until I hit the science, and even though I'd looked over a couple sample questions, I didn't know how to manage my time. It brought my score down quite a bit.</p>
<p>The first time I took the test was June 2007. I studied for half an hour for the english section (Princeton Review book) and did not even bother looking at the others. I got a 33 composite.</p>
<p>I took it again last month and this time I studied for around 24 hours or so in 2 days (During Rosh Hashanah) and did 2 full practice tests (Again, in the Princeton Review book). Ended up with a 35 composite and 10 essay.</p>
<p>The ACT is very different from the SAT. While some of your skills/strategies from the SAT do carry over to the ACT, you should probably familiarize yourself with the test by doing practice exams. I find that most people when they take the ACT for the first time have trouble finishing (time management is much more difficult on the ACT). That being said, I still personally prefer the ACT over the SAT (35 ACT vs. 2190 SAT). You might find it easier or more difficult; it all depends on your own strengths/weaknesses.</p>
<p>My junior S is doing about the same prep, but has not done any SAT. (He has 2 ACT prep books from older S.) We are hoping for a 30+ score on ACT. S wants this to be a "one and done" testing experience. He really doesn't have time in the spring to retest, so I am hoping for positive outcome Saturday.</p>
<p>I did crappy the first time but now I am studying my ass off hoping for a 27+.</p>