Did you know your ACT score will affect how successful you are in life?
I know it sounds crazy, but it’s true. How can it be? Well, ACT scores can affect what colleges you can get into, the scholarships you may be eligible to receive and what job you can get in the future…
Every point matters on the ACT test. That’s why it’s so important to try out all of the strategies to get the most out of the test prep process, thus doing your best on the actual test day.
In this article I would like to share with you a few ways to make ACT studying more fun, meaningful and engaging:
Fun ACT Prep Tip # 1: Buddy up
Everyone has friends and/or acquaintances that would be able to add some fun into your ACT prep. You can make ACT test prep less boring by inviting them to an after-school study session and working through your ACT practice book together.
Benefits of studying with friends are:
- It can be motivating and helpful as they may be able to explain concepts and clarify any doubts you have;
- If you struggle with procrastination, it might just be the solution for you;
- Being in a study group with motivated students is often helpful to reduce test anxiety;
- You can share your favorite study tricks;
Keep in mind, however, that you’ll all benefit only if you and your friends are able to stay on task by eliminating distractions and staying serious. Otherwise, you might end up having so much fun that not much studying actually happens.
Fun ACT Prep Tip # 2: Gamify your studies
We often learn better with games, and are more motivated too. Hence, playing ACT games will get you to spend more time preparing.
There are several sources where you might look for useful ACT games:
- Education.com suggests test prep activities which help students develop confidence and a lighter attitude about test-taking;
- The Sentence Zone offers a fun way to improve writing and grammar skills. It can be played by two to six people so you can invite your friends to practice together;
- NYTimes student crosswords provide you with printable crosswords in a variety of academic subjects. Check out grammar, geometry, and algebra;
- Quizlet allows you to make your own set of custom flashcards with the concepts you really need to learn.
Remember, ACT games won’t replace your normal test prep activities. However, they can help you significantly supplement your studying by:
- Targeting specific skills;
- Warming up your brain at the beginning of a study session;
- Keeping material fresh in your mind between study sessions.
Fun ACT Prep Tip #3: Find a good mentor/tutor
ACT review and practice doesn’t have to be stressful or boring. For instance, tutors at TutorZ keep finding new and creative ways to turn test prep into play or competition. Their mission is to make learning more fun and relevant for students in the digital age.
Invaluable benefits of professional tutoring:
- Tutors are passionate and knowledgeable in the areas they teach and can make test prep fun and creative;
- Tutor’s enthusiasm can help you gain confidence and self-esteem;
- Tutors can offer different tips and advice.
What strategies do you use to make ACT test prep more fun? I’d love to hear them in the comments section below!
Good luck on your test!!
May Kacharava is a tutor, blogger with a zeal for teaching and learning. She works for TutorZ, tutoring marketplace that helps students find, rate and review tutors.
