5. Internet SAT Preparation Resources
This is a free, award-winning service for SAT and ACT preparation: www.number2.com

Pros: Doesn’t cost anything; organized by college professors and graduate students.

Cons: Takes some self-discipline to keep at it.

Some paid online services are:

Peterson’s Test Prep: Online courses for both SAT and ACT; $119.95. http://www.academicservicesgroup.com/testprep/default.asp?id=877&path=ug.pft.sa

College Board Online Test Preparation: 18 interactive lessons on preparing for the SAT; 6 practice tests, etc. for $69.95 for 4 months.
https://satonlinecourse.collegeboard.com/SR/index.jsp

adMISSION POSSIBLE® TIP! One way of utilizing commercial services is to ask for individual tutoring by the most senior and/or best tutor on the staff.

6. Individual SAT Tutoring
Pros: Schedule, pace, and often place of meetings based on your needs; often more cost effective than long commercial programs; can focus on weak spots. According to a Wall Street Journal article published May 20, 2009, “...the only effective method to prepare for these (admissions tests) is to study with private tutors. While tutors typically cost more than a class or book, their expertise and personal catering to each student provides a real advantage and will result in higher scores.”

Cons: Expensive ($35-100 an hour); quality depends on knowledge and skill of tutor that is sometimes difficult to assess.

FAQ #3: Whenever I think about the SAT, I get a big knot in my stomach. What can I do about that?

ANSWER: Rather than feeling anxious or scared about the SAT (or ACT), take a positive approach: get prepared for it. The pros and cons of different test prep opportunities are noted above. Perhaps the best way for you to choose one alternative is to ask teachers, an independent counselor, and/or your school counselor for their recommendations.

Another good source of information about which test prep or tutor is best for you is students (and their parents) who have already gone through the experience. And don’t just ask one person; talk to three, four or five. As soon as you begin hearing that one experience is better than others, then you’ll know where to go.

A useful way to approach your SAT preparation is to find out where your strengths and weaknesses are on the test and then focus your preparation time on the weaknesses.