Why are practice tests such a critical piece of preparation?
The American Psychological Association defines the ‘testing effect’ as the psychological finding that retention is more successful when taking a test than when restudying the same material for the equivalent amount of time. This phenomenon, also referred to as retrieval practice, indicates that practice tests are a more effective learning tool than purely reviewing the material. Research also shows that the more difficult the retrieval of information, the better it is for long-term memory and retention. So, if you are taking a difficult test like an admissions test, the best way to prepare is to take several practice tests. Between each practice test, it’s important to analyze your results and revisit the material you didn’t know. Learn more about the three steps of test preparation.
*Note: The first study on this concept was published in 1917, and since then there have been multiple follow-up studies on similar concepts, including a 2016 study that we discussed here.
The first thing to know for the Middle or Upper level SSAT is when to guess. You need to understand each question well enough to be able to cross off at least one answer choice. Otherwise, omit the question as there is a ¼ point guessing penalty.
Given the approximately 3.5 million students will take the PSAT/NMSQT this year, it’s important for both schools and families to understand what it is and how it’s used. Read on to learn everything you need to know about the digital PSAT/NMSQT.
Noodle Pros, a cohort of experienced professional educators, is a Test Innovators partner based in New York City. Drawing on their collective expertise, they provide online and in-person high-stakes test prep and academic tutoring to students in fourteen states and three countries.
Kelly Clement is an expert SSAT & ISEE tutor...
Performance anxiety in the office, in the classroom, or on stage isn’t any different than performance anxiety is for an athlete or an executive presenting to their clients. The setting may be different, but the loss of memory, potential to choke, or the failure to implement the strategies or techniques...
Every year, there are increasing numbers of international applicants to private high schools and boarding schools in the U.S. and Canada. A North American high school education has a number of benefits, including a greater understanding of the college application process, academic readiness for a college education, and immersion in...
Since the January 7th test last weekend, we've been hearing this question a lot: where are my SSAT scores? Although we do not have access to your scores, we can definitely help answer a few questions.
The Middle Level ISEE is taken by students applying to grades 7 and 8. The test is administered on the computer and on paper. It consists of five sections: Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, Reading Comprehension, Mathematics Achievement, and the Essay.
Yesterday Test Innovators' Director of Education Brenna O'Neill revealed the strategies and secrets she and her team of highly experienced tutors have developed over years of preparing students for the SSAT. You can view the recording below:
As a general rule, we recommend starting your ISEE prep six to four months before your test date.
This means that if you plan to take the test in November, then you should take a diagnostic practice test sometime between May and July.
Scott Duddy is the Director of Admissions & Enrollment Management at Dexter Southfield School in Brookline, Massachusetts, and brings with him 14 years of professional experience in the world of independent schools.
