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 better when taking a test compared to restudying the same material. The testing effect, also called retrieval practice, indicates that practice tests are a more effective learning tool than restudying the material.
Though it takes more effort, the research shows that more difficult retrieval of information, when successful, is better for long term memory than easier retrieval.
So, if you are taking a difficult test like an admissions test, the best way to prepare is to take several practice tests. In between each practice test, it’s important to analyze your results and review the material you didn’t know. Learn more about the three steps of test preparation.
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 wrote about here.
The first step to understanding what a “good” score is on the ISEE, is understanding how it’s scored to begin with. If you don’t already feel like you have a solid understanding of that, check out our post on how the ISEE is scored.
For the SSAT, students receive a scaled score and a percentile for each subject of the test (Quantitative, Reading, and Verbal). Note: the Writing Sample is not scored. Instead, a copy of the writing sample is sent with the score report to the school recipient. Learn how the scaled score...
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.
Due to popular demand by test-taking families, we have created an ISEE Prep Guide as a companion to our Test Innovators platform. Use the Prep Guide along with our full-length practice tests and diagnostics, and you'll be well on your way to test success!
Being well-prepared for the ISEE will help you build confidence and alleviate test anxiety. The most important thing to do right now is to set goals for what areas to improve on, make a prep plan, and stick to it. Happy studying!
The Test Innovators Video Course provides videos and resources that focus on both strategies and content to help you reach your testing goals. Consider these methods to making use of the Video Course:Start with the videos on Test-taking Strategies. This chapter includes all of the videos that will help you...
Taking the ISEE or SSAT test is only one step in preparing to apply to private high schools. Making a list of schools to apply to can be nearly as daunting as taking a test. Here are three important questions to ask yourself as you get started.
One of the integral features of the Test Innovators preparation platform is the system of Practice Exercises, which is located on the “Practice Exercises” tab of the dashboard. The Practice Exercises are an important supplement to the full-length Practice Tests. Here are a few tips for maximizing the Practice Exercises:
Even with the most talented and dedicated students, there are still plenty of ways to get rejected from your dream school. Here are some of the reasons that we see students getting rejected.
Meet Kate and Brady
Kate’s son, Brady, recently took the Secondary School Admissions Test (SSAT) in hopes of gaining admission to Lakeside School for 6th grade. Brady is a very strong student, but as for many students, the SSAT was a new challenge for him. To make sure he was best...
