Any time I find a resource that I can recommend to parents, I like to showcase them on my blog. Direct Hits Education is one of those resources. I would say, hands down, it’s the BEST Vocabulary test prep available. Their books, classes and blog give students the ability to understand vocabulary words and know them when taking the PSAT/SAT/ACT tests.

The books: written the way teens talk

Direct Hits Publishing offers two of the most effective SAT preparation guides on the market: Direct Hits Core Vocabulary of the SAT and Direct Hits Toughest Vocabulary of the SAT. Together, the two volumes have been the best-performing books on the SAT and PSAT for most tests since August of 2008, when the books were first published. Students who have used the books have been able to achieve impressive gains on their Critical Reading scores, in many cases raising their scores by 100 to 200 points.

A great list of words is important, but it is just the first step. Since many SAT words are difficult, it is essential to illustrate them with vivid, relevant examples. Vividness is closely related to retention. We remember memorable and relevant experiences, forgetting boring experiences more quickly.

Direct Hits’ vocabulary is defined with vivid pop culture and academic examples drawn from movies, television programs, historical events, and books that students are currently studying in school. Students remember a word because they can remember the context. This makes Direct Hits one of the most effective learning tools for SAT preparation.

The classes

Direct Hits Education has a proven system for achieving higher SAT, PSAT and ACT scores. When students begin the Direct Hits program, their scores run the gamut, but by utilizing the knowledge and strategies presented by our teachers, they consistently make impressive gains on the SAT, PSAT and ACT. Each year Direct Hits students are admitted to top colleges and universities, often qualifying for merit scholarships. One group of students was even featured as the “Person of the Week” on ABC Nightly news.

The blog

The blog is an excellent place to see relevant content using key vocabulary words. Here are just a few examples:

• SAT Test Dates and the Oscars
• Up Your SAT Vocabulary Game with The Hunger Games: Catching Fire
• Learning Great SAT Vocabulary the The Great Gatsby

It’s easy to see why Direct Hits Education “scores” high on my list of standardized test prep. Check them out and tell them The Parent College Coach sent you!