Monday, March 30, 2015

Get a Head Start on Prep for the New SAT

While the changes planned for the new PSAT and SAT were announced some time ago (and posted on this blog last year), there are now more resources available to understand and practice this new format. 

First and foremost, the changes will take place on the PSAT starting in the fall of 2015. As of Spring 2016, the SAT will incorporate the new changes.

What are the new changes? Visit our blog post from last year for an overview. Kaplan also has an outstanding overview of the changes right here.

So how should you prepare for the change? Well, if you are a current sophomore about to head into your junior year, you should get started right away. It is never too early to get practicing. The College Board posted practice questions and practice tests on their website. Download a practice test right here. They have also posted a way to compare the exam formats right here

The changes are around the corner and will be here before you know it. Better to get a head start now while you can!

For questions about the PSAT, SAT or ACT, contact CROSSWALK. CROSSWALK is the Monterey County's local resource for test prep and private tutoring. Skype sessions are also available for those out of town. Find out more by visiting CROSSWALK

Monday, March 16, 2015

Test Prep, Golf & First Tee of Monterey County

On yesterday's glorious Sunday afternoon, I had the honor and privilege to work with the youth of First Tee of Monterey County. While I was somewhat familiar with the organization, I had no idea how much they offered area youth in terms of both golf and life skills.


My work yesterday was on the life skills side. I spent an hour yesterday with a group of about 20 high school students and we went through my presentation, 10 Things to Do to Prepare for the SAT and ACT

The students were no doubt itching to get on the golf course, but they were kind enough to sit through and digest valuable test prep tips from me. 

We developed a couple of golf analogies with respect to test prep. For example, we talked about how getting better at both golf and standardized test preparation requires a dedicated plan. We also addressed how important it is to practice perfectly for both golf and test prep. In other words, when you practice, you should practice the exact skills needed for a match or on test day. 

In all, it was an enjoyable afternoon. I hope the kids felt that our session was as valuable and beneficial as it was for me. Many thanks to Golf and Life Skills Coach Scott Qualle of First Tee of Monterey County for setting this up. 

To learn more about CROSSWALK and test prep options, contact us here. For concrete ways to approach both SAT and life, download and read 2400 SCORES: 24 Life Lessons to Demystify the SAT and Boost Your Score