The term testing plateau is one not many students have heard of before, but the concept of testing plateau may be one they are familiar with anyway. The term plateau brings to mind a leveling off of raised land, and a testing plateau is much the same idea.
Students should take a practice SAT (called the PSAT) and the practice ACT (called the PLAN) during their sophomore or junior year of high school and then take the actual SAT or ACT about twice.
Some parents and students think taking the SAT or ACT many times will continue to raise test scores, but reality shows different results. After taking a standardized test twice, most students reach their testing plateau. The testing plateau is the highest score one is capable of achieving under normal circumstances.
The testing plateau takes into consideration the rigor of academic coursework, natural ability, and test prep. While a testing plateau is a reality, you do want to be certain your testing plateau is as high as you are capable of.
The two best ways to raise your testing plateau is to take the most challenging classes you are capable of and get involved in test prep. Test prep should include understanding the layout and format as well as test specific strategies, a review of academic content, and taking and analyzing multiple practice tests. If you are unsure of where to go for test prep or to request information about online test prep or hosting a class near you, contact The Right Path.
Once you have reached your testing plateau, accept it and relax. This number will help direct you toward schools you are most suited to. You can now narrow down the list from the thousands of colleges and universities in the United States and begin researching in earnest the best choice for you. Do not stress about test results any longer. Now it is time to enjoy the rest of the college admissions process.