What Type of Test Prep is Best for You?

There’s no question about it - preparing for a standardized test can take a lot of work. Whether students are preparing for middle, high school, or college entrance, it’s important to have a study plan. But sometimes, it can be difficult figuring out not just how to study, but also in what format. 

Students preparing for a standardized test have several options: they can work with a private tutor, join small tutoring groups, enroll  a full-sized test prep class, or study independently. Which option is right for you? Read on to find out.

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Private Tutoring

Private tutoring is an excellent option for many students. In a one-on-one setting, the curriculum is tailored specifically for each student and moves at a pace perfect for them. The tutor also learns about the students’ specific needs and can recommend strategies that work for them, identify exactly where they may be having trouble, and give targeted feedback. Private tutoring is typically the most efficient form of tutoring, and students move the most quickly through content when working one-on-one.

To get started with a private tutor, you can email info@smartcitytutoring.com or submit an inquiry form. 

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Small Group Tutoring

Small-Group Tutoring can be an excellent option for students who are looking for a more collaborative environment. With small-group tutoring, students see many of the same benefits as with private tutoring - personalized attention, feedback, and targeted strategies - and students may enjoy working alongside peers who are going through the same process. The pace of the curriculum will be a little less targeted than private tutoring, but classes are also more affordable for families than private tutoring.

Email info@smartcitytutoring.com for more information about group tutoring.

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Test Prep Classes

Test Prep Classes are a good option for students who are more independent. They still provide structure, which keeps students on track as they study, and teachers can guide students through some of the trickier content and introduce them to general test prep strategies. If the pace is too fast for students, they may need to do additional work on their own to keep up, and if it’s too slow, students may need to find additional work to keep them busy. They will also need to take the initiative to ask questions when they need extra clarification. Test prep options are often more affordable for families, and they give students the opportunity to interact with many peers preparing for the same exam.

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Independent Study

Students may also choose to prepare for standardized tests independently. This option works well for students who are very independent and self-motivated. If they choose to prepare independently, students should carefully select resources to use, such as online test prep accounts or test prep workbooks. They should be mindful that testing is not just about learning the content - there are many different test-taking strategies they should use that may not be clearly outlined in the resources they gather. Students also should make a well-organized plan to ensure they have enough time to learn everything ahead of their test. Students working independently may benefit from 1-3 sessions with a tutor to get started just to introduce strategies and help make a plan.