In February and March, your college bound teen could be taking the ACT or the SAT. This week, I’m going to discuss test prep. First on the list–should you hire a test prep tutor? Is it worth the investment? Will it improve your student’s score? Is a tutor really necessary with all the free help you can find online?

Here are five reasons you might
want to hire a tutor:

Motivation

For any student to do well on the test, they need motivation. A tutor could help your student find that motivation.

Accountability

If your student isn’t accountable for their study and progress, it’s easier to slack off and not keep to the plan. A tutor will keep them accountable.

Evaluation

Part of the study process is recognizing mistakes and coming up with a plan to improve. Tutors can help with formulas, test tips, and recognizing the cause of the errors.

Study plan

With standardized tests, “if you don’t have a plan, you plan to fail”. A tutor can provide a regimented study plan to help your student stay on track.

Measure progress

A tutor will have a view of the “bigger picture” and help your student measure progress. Progress spurs motivation and improves accountability.

Spending hundreds of dollars on an effective, well-chosen tutor will certainly improve your student’s standardized test scores. Improved scores will not only improve your student’s chances of acceptance, but it will also improve your student’s chances of becoming a National Merit finalist and/or merit scholarship awards from the colleges offering admission.

Before you hire a tutor, evaluate the benefits and the expected outcome. A small investment could reap huge financial rewards.

Need help finding a tutor, click here for my list of recommended test prep tutors.

For a list of upcoming standardized test prep registration and testings date, click here.