If you have a rising Junior, this is the most important year for test prep. If they haven’t thought about a timeline, we’ve created a timeline for the upcoming year on how a high school Junior can optimize his or her year to do their best on the SAT and ACT.

This timeline illustrates the importance of taking test prep seriously throughout the junior year and into the summer. Here's a brief explanation of each stage:

1. September - Start Early: Begin familiarizing yourself with test formats and content.

2. October - PSAT/NMSQT: Take the PSAT, which serves as practice and can qualify you for National Merit Scholarships.

3. November - Analyze Results: Review PSAT scores to identify strengths and weaknesses.

4. December - Create Study Plan: Develop a structured study plan based on your analysis.

5. January - Begin Intensive Prep: Start dedicated test preparation, focusing on weak areas.

6. February - Practice Tests: Take full-length practice tests to build stamina and familiarity.

7. March - SAT (First Attempt): Take the SAT for the first time, allowing room for improvement.

8. April - ACT (First Attempt): Take the ACT if you're considering both tests.

9. May - AP Exams: Balance test prep with AP exam preparation.

10. June - Reflect and Adjust: Analyze your SAT/ACT scores and adjust your study plan accordingly.

11. July - Intensive Study: Use summer break for focused study without school pressures.

12. August - Final Preparations: Make final preparations for fall test dates if retaking.

This timeline emphasizes the importance of early and consistent preparation, allowing time for multiple test attempts and improvements. It also highlights how test prep fits into the broader context of junior year academics and college preparation activities.

September is just around the corner. If you haven’t hired a private tutor yet, definitely have one secured by next month! Many tutors are booked out weeks in advance.

Enjoy your pumpkin spice lattes and the first college football games with friends and family — and let Mindspire Prep help you make a test prep plan so you’re not overwhelmed.

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