The Sherwood Test Prep Advantage consists of a holistic approach to
preparing students for standardized tests. As such, we consider many
aspects relevant to excellent preparation.
Our approach begins with understanding the psychology behind the test,
not only of your own mental mindset, but what variables are working for
and against you within the test itself and in each subsection. We also
emphasize motivational theory to help you keep a positive approach and
perspective throughout the test. This is especially valuable for many
students who come to us anxious and nervous.
Next, we emphasize structure, and our course provides an optimal
study-plan for each student. We logically plan our students' work both
inside and outside the classroom to effectively maximize their time and
effort. We know what works, and we provide guidance and leadership to
guide you toward your goal of a good score.
Third, we focus on plans of attack and specific techniques for each
subsection of your particular test. We use proprietary techniques and
ideas to quickly navigate through each test section and help you narrow
answer choices when the going gets tough. Most companies focus
exclusively on techniques. We know that this is an incorrect approach,
and thus, is only one-fourth of our overall plan.
Last, we have students practice with real tests from the College Board,
the Educational Testing Service, or the Law School Admissions Council.
Practicing on real tests is the best way to improve your score;
pseudo-tests constructed on the same principles of real tests are not
accurate, and are at times, much more difficult than the real thing.
During our course, we have students practice our plans of attack and
ideas and techniques on over a thousand questions. In addition, students
are also required to take 3 to 6 "real" tests to simulate the actual
testing experience and to assess their improvement each week. These
"real" tests decrease students' anxiety on test day, and allow the
student to enter the testing room with a soldier's mentality. They also
allow students to practice what they have learned from class and
homework each week.
