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Thursday, November 19, 2015



(r) SAT vs. ACT  

Each year many parents seem to wonder about the differences between the SAT and the ACT.  In the past, the tests have been different enough to warrant serious consideration (see below).
  Source: bachelordegreefacts.com

However, the impending changes to the SAT and the fact that the two tests will become more similar than dissimilar may reduce the anxiety level among parents.   At least there is an opportunityto reduce that anxiety (see below). 
Irrespective of test differences or even of one's testing preference, the need for an early diagnostic testing process is helpful.  In most (but not all) cases, companies use a prescriptive tutoring process.  This prescriptive process requires information in advance of the tutoring program which allows for a certain level of personalization.   Ordinarily things start with a diagnostic assessment.  The diagnostic seeks to identify knowledge gaps which in turn facilitates the tutor-match. 

In the test prep & tutoring world, personalization is a marketing buzz-word.  Therefore, an assessment that could compare student results between three tests (current SAT, (r)SAT, and ACT) would be a logical place to develop a student's study plan. 

The Washington Post wrote an 
article on this need and provided access to a test developed by Dr. Gary Gruber. Here is a link to the free online assessment; it is also available in paper & pencil format.  If nothing else, it could provide a starting point for further analysis. 

Although a comparative diagnostic makes sense,  it is arguable that past student behavior will persist.  If we're right,  it is likely that 40% - 47% of high school students will opt to take both the (r)SAT and the ACT (NY Times, 2013anyhow.  In fact, a recent survey (Money Magazineconcludes that about 43% of students will do just that.

In terms of Test Prep & Tutoring Strategy, we suggest developing the ability to offer ACT vs. (r) SAT Diagnostic Testing Services but continuing to assume that many if not most of your students will choose both tests.  We reason that most tutoring students fall within the 40%-47% of students who apply game theory and take both tests. This combined with a deliberate event strategy should serve the mutual interests of students and tutoring firms.

Separately, begin cross-training your tutors with (r) SAT material (if you haven't already). 

SAT & ACT Scores Delayed

Speaking of the SAT & ACT, scores from the October SAT and the September ACT administrations were delayed.   The impact may have affected early action and early decision application deadlines but both organizations seem to have had contingency plans.  Read more SAT Scores Delayed.  Read more ACT Scores Delayed

LSAT Primed for a Rebound?

Although it seems like the majority of small tutoring companies focus on SAT, ACT, and Academic Subject Tutoring,  the LSAT (Law School Admissions Test)  made news this past month.

The headline is that Law School applications have been declining--actually they've hit a 40 year low--over the past few years. Those "in the  know" believe applications,  will grow again in 2016.

The rationale behind the presumed rebound seems to be based from a belief that the length of the  application trend and thus the LSAT prep trend has hit the bottom and that the  supply of Law School graduates will not meet the hiring needs in the near term.  The climb will be slow and steady but it will be there.  
 Read more...


In terms of Test Prep & Tutoring Strategy.  It never hurts to have LSAT instructors on your team, especially if they had terrific SAT or ACT scores.  In fact, a tutor who can instruct LSAT, SAT, and ACT may also be able to instruct GMAT & GRE.  They aren't easy to find but are certainly worth the effort!


Learn more about Test Prep & Tutoring Professionals  or schedule a free conversation through the Test Prep Professionals Quick Scheduler.xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
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