On Wednesdays, I share my thoughts on Learning and Professional Development.  With two teenage sons anticipating standardized testing, I am vitally interested in the topic of helping them to prepare for future tests.  I thank our guest columnist for his comprehensive look at this important topic.  Today’s guest post is by Donald McKenzie Jr.

To many future college students, the SAT is
one of the most dreadful things to hear. They must realize that in this
advanced technological age, there are many way to prepare for it. A
couple examples include online books, videos, software, and prep
courses. This article will show you a few easy ways to prepare for the
college SAT examination.

1) Online SAT Prep Courses

New online test prep courses are springing up to accommodate students
with increasingly busy schedules. Some companies currently provide SAT
preparation courses on the internet. A virtual mirror of traditional
prep courses features include, internet lectures, practice tests,
e-mail help, test taking strategies and intensive practice exercises.
Also included are physical study aids such as books and flashcards.
Another great benefit is that online SAT courses can cost much less
than offline sources.

2) SAT Examination Software

The fastest growing segment of SAT preparation materials is preparation
software on compact discs. The key advantage to SAT preparation
software is the ability to customize a training program to your
specific needs. You start with a diagnostic test that assesses your
strengths and weaknesses. The program then creates a personalized
course of study, featuring sample tests, hundreds of review questions,
multimedia teaching aids, helpful test-taking strategies and progress
trackers. This advantageous gift can really help you to get the highest
possible grade and get into the college of your choice.

3) Free SAT Prep Materials

Free materials used to prepare for the SAT are often found at your
local high school. You can go to a guidance counselor or library and
request free materials that deal with preparing for the SAT. These
materials can include free compact discs, books, websites, and audio.
You can also download various free SAT prep materials for free on the
official College Board Web site. Many students take full advantage of
this opportunity and end up saving hundreds of dollars.

4) Traditional SAT Prep Courses

Prep courses typically span over a two month period and meet about once
a week. The costs of these services tend to range from a couple hundred
to a few thousand dollars. SAT prep courses are typically instructed by
highly trained individuals and include orientation sessions, class
sessions and practice tests. Also included are home study materials
such as books, flashcards and software. Prep courses are generally
considered to be the most successful forms of SAT preparation.
Typically when you are choosing a traditional prep course, be sure to
choose smaller more intensive ones for maximum success.

5) SAT Prep Books

If you want more in depth advice, and are willing to pay for it, SAT
books are the way to go. They are often priced for less than one
hundred dollars. SAT books typically offer excellent test taking
strategies, expert advice and practice tests. Many of the more
expensive ones include a compact disc featuring sample tests and other
helpful multimedia. When you are selecting a SAT book, be sure to check
the date of publication, reviews, and the number of practice tests
included. The best place to look is in your local library.

In conclusion, remember that it can take years of practice to prepare
for the college SAT examination. Do not ever rush anything and try to
stay focused. Your overall score is just one of the important factors
colleges take into consideration when evaluating you. Good luck and
keep studying!

About the Author: 
   

For more information visit these two helpful websites: SAT Preparation and College Planning.
You will be able to find more information on the SAT exam and how to
plan for college. You can also get information on eBay here: eBay Business.