Besides having an official SAT score of 2390 out of 2400, I have tutored hundreds of test prep students since 1997.
I know the SAT, LSAT, ACT, and PSAT very well. In fact, I consider them my friends.
The SAT, ACT, PSAT, and LSAT tests are very tutorable (coachable); these tests cover only a very limited range of topics. Don't miss this opportunity to take advantage of the system: get a tutor who knows all of the test-taking strategies, tricks, and techniques. On this page there is a link to a study which seems to contradict my assertion. Let's get one thing straight:
I don't think most tutoring businesses can raise your child's score; however, I think I can.
Many people underestimate the importance of SAT and ACT scores in the college admissions process. At "good" colleges and universities, SAT and ACT scores often count more than all four years of high school grades. Of course, other things, such as personal statements, leadership activities, and extracurriculuar activities, count too. But it is SAT and ACT scores which give the admissions staff an opportunity to compare applicants with the same yardstick. Regardless of where you stand on the issue of the SAT's value, many high achievers see SAT and ACT scores as a rough measure of a student's intelligence or at least of a student's academic ability. The fact is there is a strong correlation between high SAT and ACT scores and good grades in college.
While I don't think prepping for the SAT I Math section is especially helpful for most students' college grades, I think SAT Critical Reading Prep and SAT Writing Prep both have a direct positive effect on college grades. In other words, SAT prep can help a student when the student goes to college. I cannot imagine a student being able to write well unless the student scored a 650+ on the SAT I Writing or being able to read well unless the student scored 650+ on the SAT I Critical Reading. Students who score under a 650 on the SAT Critical Reading have great difficulty understanding complex reading passages.
There are many other reasons you should get SAT Prep tutoring for your child, but if you get an SAT Prep tutor, make sure the tutor is competent. Very few tutors have 99th percentile scores, and few have much experience. Most tutors at tutoring centers are woefully inadequate in so many ways.
The fact is I have an official SAT I score of 2390 (out of 2400) on the new SAT I test. I know the test like the back of my hand. Over the years I have helped hundreds of kids raise their SAT, PSAT, and ACT test scores. I know what is on these tests and how to impart that knowledge to my students. Many kids can make a 300-point gain to their SAT score, if they put in the time and effort and if their parents invest in a good tutor.
(408) 250-7607
cell
(accepts text messages) PhilipHawes@yahoo.com
Philip Hawes
SAT,
PSAT, ACT, and
LSAT Test Prep Tutoring
