No SAT Secrets Available

Thursday, January 19, 2006

SAT test-takers flock into expensive SAT test preparation centers expecting to find secrets of the SAT. Let me say this now. There are no SAT secrets, and on top of that, SAT test preparation courses are a ripoff. Sure, if you (or your parents) have money to burn, sure, go for it. However, all it takes is some self-motivation, and you'll be able to accomplish to same amount and learn the same material that you would in a prep course.

"But the test preparation company guarantees that I score higher."

Read the fine print. For most guarantees to be valid, you have to be sure to do all of their practice problems, go to all the sessions, etc. All these guarantees are really saying is that if you do the work, your score will improve. That should be a given.

You will learn the same material in a $1000 course as you would from a $20 book from your local book store. Basically, the extra $980 is the fee for motivation. You can even find SAT test preparation books on eBay for just a few bucks.

"What about SAT secrets?"

Open up an SAT test preparation book and you'll see what you need to know. No class required. You can also refer to the StudyBeans SAT study guide for tips on preparing for the SAT. 

Basically, it all comes down to this: 

Don't be lazy.

Either way you're going to have to do work, so you might as well save a few hundred dollars.

That's all there is to it! Follow the StudyBeans (free) SAT study guide, and stay motivated. You'll be fine. If you're still not coninvced, by all means, take a course, but don't say we didn't warn you. Good luck, whichever path you choose.

Until next time, let the StudyBeans grow...