Test Prep Tips For Your Upcoming ACT And SAT Exams

Getting ready for the SAT and ACT exams can feel overwhelming, especially with updated formats rolled out. But good prep gives you confidence and helps you boost your SAT and ACT scores. This guide breaks down proven test prep tips for the digital SAT and enhanced ACT so you know exactly how to study smarter and maximize your results.

Know the 2026 SAT Format Before You Study

The SAT is now fully digital and adaptive, with two main sections: Reading & Writing and Math. Your performance in the first module of each section influences the difficulty of the second — so pacing and consistent accuracy matter. SAT Suite

Here’s what the digital SAT looks like:

• Reading & Writing: Two modules, 54 questions total

• Math: Two modules, 44 questions total

• Total Time: ~2 hours and 14 minutes

• Adaptive structure: Second module difficulty depends on your first module performance

The SAT’s digital format also includes built‑in tools like an on‑screen calculator and timer (in the Bluebook testing app), and shorter, more targeted passages that help you focus on comprehension and analysis.

Prep tip: Practice with full‑length digital SAT practice tests in College Board’s Bluebook app so you’re comfortable with the adaptive style and the timing.

Understand the Enhanced ACT Changes

The ACT test has been revamped for 2025–26, giving students more flexibility with a shorter, more focused structure. The enhanced ACT keeps English, math, and reading as the core sections that count toward your Composite score, and science is now optional — though you can still take it if your target schools value a science score. ACT

Key things to know:

• The ACT is shorter overall with fewer questions and more time per question. Student Blog

• The Composite score (the main score colleges see) is based on English, math, and reading.

• Science can be taken for an extra separate score.

• You can choose online or paper test formats in most administrations.

Prep tip: Focus most of your practice on English, reading, and math since that’s what the new Composite score prioritizes, but be ready to show science strength if your schools request it.

The Test Prep Tips

Take LOTS of Practice Tests

One of the most effective ways to prepare for the SAT and ACT is to take practice tests that mimic the real exam:

• Simulate test day timing and conditions.

• Analyze every section to find weaknesses.

• Track your pacing so you don’t run out of time on test day.

Practice tests help you understand not just what you know, but how you take the test — which is huge for improving your score.

Review Weak Areas Strategically

Once you’ve taken practice SAT or ACT tests:

• Identify sections where you missed the most questions.

• Focus your study on those skills — whether it’s algebra problems, reading comprehension, or grammar rules.

• Build targeted study sessions that fix specific weaknesses rather than just re‑reading notes.

This strategy turns practice into score‑improving study.

Use Smart Study Tools: Flashcards, Mnemonics, and Subject Drills

Active study tools make a difference:

• Flashcards for vocabulary, math formulas, and grammar rules.

• Mnemonics to lock in tricky rules.

• Subject drills that focus on just one type of question until you master it.

These tools are especially helpful for concepts that come up repeatedly in both SAT and ACT test prep.

Manage Your Time on Test Day

Time management is one of the most underrated test prep strategies. Both the SAT and ACT reward students who:

• Skip questions strategically and return later.

• Keep an eye on timing for each section.

• Pacing drills during practice so you’re never rushed on test day.

Getting comfortable with timing builds confidence and helps reduce careless errors.

Build a Consistent Study Schedule

Don’t cram. Set up a study plan like this:

• Weekly practice test or section drill

• Daily short study blocks (30–60 minutes)

• Review of mistakes the same day

That consistency adds up and keeps you ready without burning out. Even better? Schedule sessions with an experienced tutor to help guide you through the whole exam.

Get Help Where You Need It

Struggling with a concept? Get help! Working with a tutor or teacher can clarify tricky algebra rules, reading strategies, or testing techniques — and that can be the difference between a good score and a great one.

Take Care of Yourself Too

Don’t ignore your body and mind during test prep. Getting enough sleep, eating well, and taking breaks helps with memory, focus, and performance. A calm, well‑rested mind scores better.

Final Word

Preparing for the digital SAT and enhanced ACT in 2026 doesn’t have to be intimidating. With structured practice, smart review, real practice tests, and confidence in your test‑taking skills, you can improve your scores and stand out in the college admissions process.

Ready to take your SAT or ACT prep to the next level? Schedule a session with one of our expert test prep tutors and get personalized coaching tailored to your goals.