4D AGO

54: How to Use Your January Wisely--The Month That Makes or Breaks Your ACT Score

If you're testing on February 14th, listen up. January isn't just another month—it's THE month that determines whether you walk into that ACT confident or scrambling. In this episode, we're breaking down exactly how to use your January strategically so you don't waste the most critical 5-6 weeks before test day. Most students completely blow this window. Don't be one of them. What You'll Learn: -Why winter break studying probably won't happen (and why that's okay) -The 3 Pillars of January Prep: Focus, Practice, and Mental Game -How to identify your highest-value targets instead of trying to fix everything -Why the Enhanced ACT's tighter scoring curve makes January even more critical -Smart practice strategies that actually improve scores (versus just taking test after test) -How to train your mental game so you don't freeze on test day -What to do RIGHT NOW before winter break starts For Parents: We've got a whole section on how to support your student through January without nagging them into resentment. Because let's be real—pressure doesn't work, but structure does. Ready to make January count? Join us for the ACT Bootcamp LIVE - three virtual sessions starting January 18th covering English, Math, and Reading strategies that actually move scores. Get 6 hours of expert instruction, a custom workbook, and a clear plan for those final weeks before February 14th. Only $249 (includes free diagnostic test + free 1-hour planning session) Register: upreptestprep.net/bootcamp Use "XMAS25" for an additional $15 off the bootcamp! Resources mentioned in this episode: ACT Bootcamp Live--https://upreptestprep.net/bootcamp (use "XMAS 25" for an additional $15 off) ACT Resource books: https://upreptestprep.net/my-favorite-links ACT Diagnostic Test: https://upreptestprep-site-1ee6.thinkific.com/courses/act-diagnostic-testing Time to stop stressing and start preparing strategically. Let's do this, Test Preppers!

33 min

DEC 8

53: Should You Study Over Winter Break for the ACT? The Real Answer

It's December. Some of you are taking the ACT this weekend. Some of you are staring down a February test date. And everyone—students and parents—is asking the same question: Should I study over winter break? Here's the truth: Most students get this wrong. They either burn themselves out with four-hour study marathons, or they take two full weeks off and lose all their momentum. Both approaches tank your score. In this episode, we're giving you the real answer—and it's going to depend on where you are in your testing journey. In this episode, you'll learn: • Why December test-takers need actual recovery time (and what happens if you don't take it) • The "Sweet Spot Study Plan" for February test-takers—45-60 minutes a day that maintains momentum without burnout • What to study each day during break (with a practical daily schedule by section) • The one practice test you should take mid-break (and when to take it) • What parents should—and absolutely shouldn't—say about studying over break • The January Reset Strategy to come back strong when school starts Plus: Aimee shares the story of two students who got winter break completely wrong—one burned out from overstudy, one lost momentum from understudy—and what you can learn from their mistakes. Whether you're recovering from the December ACT or prepping for February, this episode will help you use winter break strategically without sacrificing your mental health or your vacation. Want help with your ACT prep? Join Aimee's ACT Bootcamp Live—three intensive virtual sessions (Jan 18, Jan 25, Feb. 1) covering English, Math, and Reading strategies. Get expert instruction, a custom workbook, free diagnostic test, and a personal planning session. Register at https://upreptestprep.net/bootcamp. About Test Prep+: Hosted by ACT-certified instructor Aimee Urdiales, Test Prep+ gives students and parents the strategies, mindset, and real talk you need to succeed on the ACT and SAT—without the stress. Resources mentioned in this episode: ACT Bootcamp Live--use code BF25 for $50 discount, plus get free ACT Diagnostic Test with personalized study plan

44 min

OCT 31

51: ACT/SAT Prep-Are You Supporting or Pressuring Your Teen?

"Did you study today?" seems like an innocent question. But to your teen? It feels like pressure, judgment, and lack of trust. In this Parent Edition episode, we're tackling the Intention-Impact Gap—the space between what you mean to communicate and what your teen actually experiences. Because sometimes our support, no matter how well-intentioned, feels like pressure to our teens. And when that happens, we're not just hurting their motivation—we're damaging our relationship with them. In this episode, you'll learn: The 5 red flags that you've crossed from support to pressure Why "I'm just checking in" makes your teen shut down (the science behind it) The Support Framework that actually works (5 principles every parent needs) What to say instead of "Did you study today?" (scripts that open doors, not close them) How to separate your dreams from theirs (and why letting go helps them succeed) The one conversation you need to have this week Whether your teen sent you this episode or you found it on your own, this is the real talk about supporting without smothering, helping without hovering, and maintaining your relationship while navigating ACT/SAT prep. Because here's the truth: Your relationship with your teen matters more than any test score. Let's make sure your support actually feels like support. Resources available to help you in our latest blog post: https://upreptestprep.net/blog/parent-support Connect with Test Prep+: Instagram: @upretestprep Website: https://upreptestprep.net

46 min

OCT 22

50: Test Score Reality Check-What Your ACT Score Actually Means for College

You got your test scores back. Now what? This milestone episode answers the question every Test Prepper asks: "Is my score good enough, or should I retake?" Host Aimee Urdiales breaks down exactly what your ACT score means for college admissions, merit scholarships, and your future - with the real talk you won't get from your guidance counselor. 🔍 What You'll Learn: Understanding College Score Requirements -How to decode middle 50% ranges (and what they actually mean for your chances) -Where to find accurate, reliable score data for your target schools -The truth about test-optional policies and when submitting scores still matters -Why "competitive" doesn't mean "perfect" How Colleges Use Your Scores -Superscoring explained - and how it changes your retake strategy -The three ways test scores impact your college future -Merit scholarship thresholds that can save you tens of thousands of dollars -Real examples of when one point = $60,000 in scholarships The Retake Decision Framework -Step-by-step process to decide if you should test again -Realistic score improvement data (what's actually achievable) -The law of diminishing returns - when retaking stops making sense -How many times is too many times to take the test The Motivation Truth You Need to Hear -Why YOU have to want the score improvement (not your parents) -Honest assessment of the work required for different score jumps -How to know if you're ready to commit to test prep -The difference between students who improve and students who don't Your Action Plan -Research tools to evaluate your position -Decision tree for retaking vs. moving on -When "good enough" is actually good enough -How to focus your energy where it matters most 💡 Key Takeaways: → Test scores are just one piece of your application puzzle → Being in the middle 50% range makes you competitive → Scholarship thresholds can make retaking worth it even after admission → Score improvement requires genuine commitment and realistic expectations → Your motivation matters more than your parents' pressure 🎁 Free Download: Click here to download for free--https://u-prep-test-prep.myflodesk.com/lm-college-ws Get the College Score Evaluation Worksheet mentioned in this episode - it walks you through the entire decision process with links to all the data you need. Perfect For: High school students who've taken the ACT, juniors planning their testing strategy, seniors deciding whether to retake, parents supporting test-takers, anyone confused about what their scores actually mean Episode 50 Special: After 50 episodes of cutting through test prep noise, this might be the most important episode yet. Because knowing your target changes everything about your strategy. In honor of this special episode, use PODCAST50 as a special code for any of our products and receive 50% off until October 26, 2025 at midnight! Related Episodes: Episode 47: How the New ACT Format Affects Test Strategy Episode 48: The Psychology of Test Day - Conquering ACT Anxiety Episode 49: Emergency Test Prep - What to Do When Time is Running Out Episode 51: Parent Edition (Next Week!) Don't waste time, money, and energy retaking a test you don't need to retake. And don't miss opportunities by stopping too soon. This episode gives you the clarity to make the right decision. Topics: ACT prep, SAT prep, college admissions, test scores, merit scholarships, retake strategy, test-optional, superscoring, standardized testing, college planning, student success #ACTprep #SATprep #CollegeAdmissions #TestScores #MeritScholarships #StandardizedTesting #CollegePlanning #TestPrep #StudentSuccess #TestPrepPlus

32 min

OCT 13

49: Emergency Test Prep-What to do When Time is Running Out

It's Monday. The ACT is this Saturday. If you're feeling unprepared and anxious, this episode is your lifeline. Join us for a strategic day-by-day game plan designed specifically for students taking the ACT this weekend. No cramming. No panic. Just smart, focused test prep that actually works when time is running out. What You'll Learn: ✓ Your complete Monday-Friday prep schedule (only 12-14 hours total study time) ✓ The "refine, don't learn" principle - how to sharpen existing skills instead of trying to master new concepts ✓ Strategic content triage: What to focus on vs. what to skip entirely ✓ Day-by-day breakdown with specific tasks for each day leading up to Saturday ✓ Mental preparation techniques adapted from Episode 48 for emergency situations ✓ Enhanced ACT format overview - what's changed and what hasn't ✓ Complete Friday night protocol and Saturday morning execution plan ✓ Test day survival strategies for underprepared students Special Features: Realistic study time commitments (no all-nighters!) Confidence-building strategies when you're short on time Section-by-section execution tactics Strategic guessing and time management techniques FREE DOWNLOAD: Get the complete ACT Last-Minute Checklist here: https://u-prep-test-prep.myflodesk.com/c230rj2lra Whether you're taking the ACT this Saturday or prepping for a future test date, this episode gives you a proven framework for maximizing your performance when the clock is ticking. Resources mentioned in this episode: FREE ACT Last-Minute Checklist--download here: https://u-prep-test-prep.myflodesk.com/c230rj2lra FREE ACT Practice Test--download here: https://u-prep-test-prep.myflodesk.com/act-free-test Best ACT resources for the new enhanced ACT: -The Official ACT Prep Guide 25-26: (paperback) https://amzn.to/3W3XqM2 (kindle) https://amzn.to/472CNEW -Kaplan's ACT Total Prep 2026: (paperback) https://amzn.to/472CNEW (Kindle) https://amzn.to/46O7JKf -FREE online practice test at myact.org Perfect for: ACT test-takers, high school students, anxious test preppers, students taking the test this weekend, parents supporting test-takers Related Episodes: Episode 48 - The Psychology of Test Day: Conquering ACT Anxiety Keywords: ACT test prep, last minute ACT study guide, ACT this Saturday, emergency test preparation, ACT anxiety, test day strategy, enhanced ACT format, ACT study schedule, ACT tips, standardized test prep, college prep, ACT score improvement #ACTPrep #TestPrep #ACT #CollegePrep #StandardizedTests #TestAnxiety #StudentSuccess #HighSchool #TestTakingStrategies #ACTTips #LastMinuteStudy #TestDay #UPrepTestPrep Some links in this description may be affiliate links, which means I get a small commission if you click them and make a purchase.

45 min

OCT 8

48: The Psychology of Test Day: Conquering ACT Anxiety

All the ACT prep strategies in the world won't help if you freeze up when it matters. In this episode, Test Prep+ host [Your Name] dives deep into the mental game of ACT test-taking, addressing the real psychological challenges that keep students from performing their best on test day. Learn why your brain seems to "betray" you during the actual ACT (even when practice tests go perfectly), how to build genuine confidence before test day, and most importantly - specific techniques to manage anxiety when you're sitting in that testing room. Perfect for ACT test-takers experiencing test anxiety, students who perform well on practice tests but struggle on the real thing, and parents supporting anxious test-takers. What you'll learn: Why test anxiety happens and how it affects your performance Pre-test day mental preparation strategies that actually work In-the-moment anxiety management techniques you can use during the test Recovery strategies when things go wrong on test day How to treat each ACT section as a fresh start Download your FREE toolkit here: https://u-prep-test-prep.myflodesk.com/lm-boundaries Keywords: ACT test prep, test anxiety, ACT strategies, standardized test preparation, college admissions, test-taking tips

27 min

SEP 9

47: How the New ACT Format Affects Test Strategy

MUST-LISTEN for 2025 ACT Test Takers! The ACT has fundamentally changed, and your test strategy needs to change too. In this essential episode, we break down exactly how the new Enhanced ACT format affects your approach to every section. What You'll Discover: ✅ Why the ACT has actually gotten HARDER (despite being shorter) ✅ How tighter curves mean you need higher accuracy than ever before ✅ The major Math content shifts: 80% advanced concepts vs. 60% previously ✅ New statistical topics like regression analysis now appearing on tests ✅ Section-by-section strategy adjustments for English, Math, and Reading ✅ Why Science is optional and how that impacts your composite score ✅ Timing strategies that account for accuracy over speed Perfect for: Students taking the ACT in 2025, parents helping with test prep, tutors updating their strategies Bonus: Learn about our FREE webinar "Mastering the New ACT: Format Changes and Winning Strategies" where we dive deeper with specific examples and practice techniques. Don't walk into the ACT with outdated strategies. This episode could be the difference between your target score and disappointment on test day. Resources mentioned in this episode: - Checkout our FREE WEBINAR: Navigating the New ACT—on Sept. 17th at 7:30PM CST. Grab your spot here: https://upreptestprep.net/free-act-webinar - Need some help quick with the ACT? Check out our ACT Bootcamp and how it can help you boost your score in just six hours! Learn more about it here: https://upreptestprep.net/bootcamp - FREE Score Tracker: Download it here https://u-prep-test-prep.myflodesk.com/test-tracker - Subscribe to our newsletter for free resources each week: https://u-prep-test-prep.myflodesk.com/freebie-signup #ACT #TestPrep #CollegeAdmissions #ACT2025 #EnhancedACT #TestStrategy

28 min

AUG 27

46: The 5 ACT Mistakes That Actually Lower Your Score (And How to Avoid Them)

The ACT has changed—and so have the mistakes students make. In this episode of Test Prep+ Podcast, host Aimee Urdiales breaks down the five biggest mistakes students are making on the new enhanced ACT and shows you exactly how to avoid them. From understanding the new composite score and superscoring rules to using the right prep materials and planning your testing timeline, this episode gives you the clarity and strategy you need to boost your score. Perfect for high school juniors, seniors, and parents navigating the 2025 enhanced ACT, this episode will help you prep smarter, not harder. Resources mentioned in this episode: • FREE WEBINAR on the changes to the ACT: Join us for our “Navigating the New ACT” webinar—several opportunities throughout September. Check it out here: https://upreptestprep.net/free-act-webinar • Looking for ACT prep this September? Check out our ACT Bootcamp Live—click here for details: https://upreptestprep.net/bootcamp • Here is the link to my favorite resources for ACT Prep (warning—only Big Red is the enhanced version): https://upreptestprep.net/my-favorite-links

40 min

Test Prep+

54: How to Use Your January Wisely--The Month That Makes or Breaks Your ACT Score

53: Should You Study Over Winter Break for the ACT? The Real Answer

51: ACT/SAT Prep-Are You Supporting or Pressuring Your Teen?

50: Test Score Reality Check-What Your ACT Score Actually Means for College

49: Emergency Test Prep-What to do When Time is Running Out

48: The Psychology of Test Day: Conquering ACT Anxiety

47: How the New ACT Format Affects Test Strategy

46: The 5 ACT Mistakes That Actually Lower Your Score (And How to Avoid Them)

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