​SAT/ACT prep that works
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Is Testing Still Necessary?
Tests are still vital for many students; please do not confuse "test optional" with "tests don't matter." As one colleague noted: 
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​"Good grades and extracurricular activities are 'optional' too. But if you want want to get in, you'd better have them!"​
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Several sources have compiled data for admission rates at test-optional schools for applicants who submit vs. don't submit test scores. This source covers a range of public and private schools, while this one focuses more on elite East Coast schools. The clear takeaway is that applicants who submit test scores have an advantage—sometimes a very large one—at test-optional schools.

Only UC's, CSU's, and a small number of other colleges around the country are test-blind.
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Parents of Juniors (2027):
Spring and summer can be a great time to prep for tests in fall of senior year, and many students achieve their best scores on these "later" tests. I'm available throughout the spring and summer for both new and ongoing test prep.
Parents of Sophomores (2028):
Planning ahead for test prep is important given the many demands of junior year. Some students start test prep in the summer after 10th grade—but others might start 6 months or a year later with equal success, simply based on what's best for them! Please contact me now to begin this discussion. I'll ensure that nothing is overlooked!
My Approach
​I construct detailed homework assignments and lesson plans with fundamental principles of learning, memory, and motivation in mind. Effective test prep involves three areas of learning: 
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  • Content (math and grammar rules)
  • Strategies (the test as a whole—timing, general techniques, overall approach)
  • Question Types (predictable, recognizable formats and solving processes)​
All three facets are woven together throughout the test prep process, with an emphasis on foundational content in our early lessons when more significant gaps exist in a student's math and grammar knowledge.

​If you'd like to know more about how I work, please ask me. I'm happy to share!
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​Fees
My fee for SAT/ACT prep is $240 per hour, with some need-based discounts available. 

The number of tutoring hours required to prepare for testing depends on each student's goals and readiness, but complete prep to prepare for a first attempt at a test is typically 12-18 hours. I'm also available for shorter interventions. 


Next Steps
Please contact me at (415) 990-1130 or [email protected] if you'd like to discuss your student's needs in more detail or schedule lessons. ​
​​SAT vs. ACT
All colleges accept both the SAT and ACT and do not favor one over the other.

Each student's SAT vs. ACT decision should be based on actual test or diagnostic score data, not just a feeling or a personal preference. There are several significant differences between the tests, so it's unwise to simply guess which test will better fit a given student.

In most cases, our work will start with a brief introduction to and then diagnostic/sample tests of both the SAT and ACT to determine which test we should focus on.
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