How can I score better on the ACT?

Question

I am a fairly good student for the most part. I get only straight A's in classes and I love school. I usually do fairly well on tests. The only issue I have is with the standardized tests. I consistently score in the 90th percentile (27 ACT) on all of my standardized tests. I have done testing preparation and I have asked for help from most of my teachers. However, everyone (including me) is shocked that I am not scoring much higher (in the 30s) on my ACT. I have no clue what to do. Am I just a poor test taker or do I need more help? I just want to be eligible for all of the scholarships that I know I can get in college, but I don't think that is possible with my low score. Any help?

Answer 1

Well, first of all, you're being really hard on yourself, you're not exactly a poor test taker. A 27 isn't bad if it's in the90th percentile, but as a fellow over-achiever, I understand. I have a few suggestions for how you can improve your score. 1) Stop stressing out and studying so hard, try taking the test just using what you already know (which is really probably almost everything that appears on the ACT) and have some confidence that you are going to get an awesome score because you're smart, you know how to answer the problems, and you can do it. The 1st time I took the SAT I had taken a class and studied hundreds of vocab flashcards and taken tons of practice tests and I got a 1910. I was shocked because I knew I could do way better. The second time I did nothing and relaxed and got a 2150. More people should try it because it works, it's easier, and it's free. But the confidence is important. If you do nothing and go in thinking "i'm screwed", well then you will be. 2) Try the SAT. I know people usually suggest the reverse (take ACT if you don't like your SAT score) but just like some people do better on the ACT, others do better on the SAT.

Answer 2

Same with me.  I think you should get some prep. books to help you out. They show you exactly what to focus on, and you can study that. Take a buch of practice exams; they will help you get accustomed to the test under timed conditions, and the more you take, the more you will improve. Go to amazon.com to order the prep. books, and look at the reviews that buyers have given to give you an idea on the quality of the book. Also, make sure that you are relaxed on test day. Usually, I get so nervous, which provides an unecessary distraction. Basically, if you really study for these standardized tests, then you'll feel more confident on test day, and you'll be more prepared. Oh, and if you take the test a second time, you'll probaly perform better since you'll already be accustomed to the test format, but if you study, then you should be able to reach in the 30s. Good luck.