5 Time Management Tips for Crushing Your ACT Prep
Getting ready for the ACT isn't just about hitting the books—it’s your ticket to the college of your dreams and some sweet scholarship dollars. But let's face it: managing your time is key to not just surviving the ACT, but totally owning it. Remember, my philosophy is getting the most amount of points with the least amount of work. Here’s how you can make it easier on yourself:
1. Go for the “flexi-prep”
Forget one-size-fits-all schedules. You need a plan that fits with your life. Are you an early bird who’s up with the dawn or a night owl who hits their stride when everyone else is winding down? Figure out when you’re sharpest and sketch out a study calendar that fits.
One of the best ways to fit your test prep into your schedule is our virtual interactive prep. This gives you the opportunity to schedule on your OWN time, but you still get the personal support with a real human in our weekly office hours, aka Score Squad.
Pro Tip: Grab a group of friends and join the virtual interactive prep together to make it more fun!
2. Set Goals That Stick
Know where you are starting from and then set a target for where you want to go. Then get there! That goes for setting a goal score and also for setting aside time to prep. At the beginning of the week, just say “I’m gonna set aside an hour to finish this practice section this week…” and then tick that baby off your list!
Nailing specific targets not only pumps up your score potential but also fires up your motivation from start to finish. Having the confidence to know you can beat this thing is a major part of the battle.
Pro Tip: Jot down your session goals and tally up your wins as you go. Not feeling the progress? Tweak your targets to keep them challenging yet achievable.
3. Time Your Tackles
The ACT isn’t just a brain game—it’s a race against the clock. Get the hang of the hustle with timed trials. Whether it’s full-blown practice exams or sprint sessions on tough sections, make every minute count.
Sometimes the ACT is like training for a 5k. You’ve got to do a bit of “drill and kill.” You didn’t finish in time? Do it again. And again. And then again.
Pro Tip: Check out THIS WATCH on Amazon….it helps you pace your time and has specific tools for the ACT: https://amzn.to/4dXpHLk
4. Unplug to Plug In
Our devices are a constant distraction to us, especially when doing something that we may not find especially….engaging? 🙂You will be more focused and get more done if you remove all distractions and really plug in to what you’re working on. You can take that brain break later.
Pro Tip: Put your phone in another room while working on practice tests or doing test prep. Even knowing it’s near you can be a distraction!
5. Flex and Flow
Got your study plan down? Great. But stay flexible. Adapt your schedule based on real talk with yourself about what’s working and what’s not. As D-day draws near, shift gears from exploring new territory to reinforcing your strongholds.
Conclusion
Managing your time with these five tips means you’ll strut into the ACT with confidence, ready to knock it out of the park. It’s about making your prep time productive, personalized, and just a little bit flexible. Remember, you’re in control—so own it, ace it, and reach out if you need help!
