ACT & SAT

ACT / SAT Test Taking Strategies to AVOID

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

There’s a lot of advice out there that helps you on the SAT and ACT, but mixed in with the good advice, is some bad advice. Here are just a few test-taking strategies you should be avoiding. “Cramming / All-Nighter”  Some students think study cramming works, but it can do more harm than good. Whether …

college applications

Second Semester Senior Year College Prep Checklist

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

You might think that with college applications out of the way, and acceptance letters rolling in, that second semester of senior year will be a breeze. However, there’s still plenty of prep work to do. A college prep checklist can help you remember what you need to do. Here are some things you should have on …

myths

Myth: Taking Both the ACT and SAT Will Double My Success Rate

By Allison WignallLast updated on December 22, 2022

“Jack of all trades, master of none, though oftentimes better than master one.” It’s a quote that speaks to being well-rounded, the value of having many skills and not focusing on one expertise. When it comes to the ACT and SAT, however, it might be better just take one. There’s a reason why taking both …

ACT & SAT

Interesting ACT / SAT Prep Tips to Try!

By Allison WignallLast updated on December 22, 2022

There are countless ACT and SAT prep tricks out there—we’ve written about plenty of them ourselves. Here are three more you might not have tried yet, but definitely should! Teach concepts to someone else In order to teach, you have to have a solid grasp on the material. Therefore, a great way to ensure you …

college applications

College App Essay Tip: Use the Active Voice

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

Are you struggling with how to write your college application essay? Don’t worry! Many do. Quite a few students have to brainstorm to determine just what they want to write about and once they settle on a topic, the problem lies in HOW to write it. A major tip is to use the active voice. …

ACT & SAT

Why You Should Mark Up Your ACT/SAT Test Booklet and How To Do It

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

Did you know you can write all over your ACT or SAT test booklet during the exam itself? No one will see your notes and it’s a great way to keep on track during the exam. Here’s exactly why and how you should take advantage of this: Cross Out Wrong Answers The process of elimination …

ACT & SAT

ACT / SAT Pro Tip: Learn a New Word Every Day

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

The higher your ACT / SAT test scores, the better your chances of getting accepted into the college of your choice, and the more scholarships you can be eligible for. With that in mind, it’s never too early to start preparing for the ACT or SAT, right? Even as early as freshman year you can …

college admissions

4 Things to do While Waiting For College Acceptance Letters

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on March 18, 2024

Thousands of students wait anxiously each year for college acceptance letters, but the time between January and April shouldn’t be spent idly waiting. Students can tackle scholarship applications, grant applications, and financial aid requirements during this time period. High school seniors also shouldn’t let their grades or extracurricular involvement slip during this time period. Colleges …

ACT & SAT

Take Advantage Of the ‘Question of the Day’ Features for the ACT and SAT

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

With so much at stake—between admission odds and scholarship eligibility—it’s not a good idea to wait for the last minute to start studying for the ACT and SAT. Experts suggest starting from your sophomore or junior year. One thing that can help is the SAT and ACT Question of the Day features that both test …

college admissions

The Average College GPA and Test Scores…And Why it Matters

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on September 21, 2023

During your high school years, you’ve likely been focused on your GPA and test scores alone. While you might be aware of some of your classmates’ scores, their grades (unless it’s a group project) tend to have little to do with yours. However, when it’s time to apply to college, other students’ GPAs and SAT/ACT results …