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Is Your SAT or ACT Prep Doomed?

6/24/2015

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Let’s say you’ve taken an SAT or ACT practice test (or an official test) and the results are nowhere near your target score. Are you doomed?
 
I'll help you answer this question, but first, consider what your scores really are: a measure of where you’ve been (past tense). After all, you took the test in the past, and any preparation you did for that test also happened in the past. Everything about test scores indicates what has happened before the present moment.

On the other hand, to consider yourself “doomed” is to make a prediction about the future, which is something you have the power to shape right now.
Decide that success is possible on the SAT and ACT.
You can’t change how you performed on the previous test because it's done. What you can control is what you do right now. Present actions  determine future outcomes.  {Tweet It}
When considering whether or not you are doomed, the best course of action is simply to decide that you aren't. Once you've made that decision, you can  use the resources available to you in the present moment to create the future you want. For instance, you might try to learn from the errors you made on a recent practice test (gaps in your knowledge base that can be filled; careless mistakes; et cetera).

One more thing: The  longer you consider the question of whether or not you're doomed, the more energy you invest in the outcome you don’t want. Decide that success is possible for you, and refocus your energy in a positive direction.

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  • About Erika
  • LinkedIn Profile
  • Coaching
    • Test Prep Coaching
    • Information for Parents
    • Schedule a Free Consultation
    • Testimonials
    • Expert Guidance for Tutors
  • Resources
    • Blog
    • Book
    • Free One Month SAT & ACT Prep Plans
    • Email Updates
  • Contact