The Score, Issue #10: In Defense of Memorization
Attain your highest potential score on the ACT or SAT by rediscovering this lost ancient art!
Welcome to Issue #10 of The Score. We've had quite a journey thus far, delving into the labyrinthine world of ACT / SAT prep. Last week, we explored self-study strategies for ACT and SAT Reading. In that post, I stressed the importance of studying question type tactics - the “weapons” that students must arm themselves with for their test prep battles.
However, as we will see today, the overcoming this challenge lies not only in the tools themselves, but also in the mastery of these methods. To gain such mastery, students must embrace the lost art of memorization.
The Shortcomings of Superficial Studying
In the realm of test prep, not all approaches to studying are created equal. Too often, students skate over ACT and SAT strategies in a surface-level manner. This approach guarantees sub-optimal results, as it doesn’t allow for fully harnessing the potential of Quiz Hacker’s proven methods. Herein lies our challenge - to persuade students to delve deeper into the study materials, to encourage them to focus and truly absorb these powerful general strategies and specific question type tactics.
Herein lies our challenge - to persuade students to delve deeper into the study materials, to encourage them to focus and truly absorb these powerful strategies and tactics.
Attempting to sprint through studying shortchanges the test prepper by inadvertently slowing down progress. Why? Because a lack of understanding at the outset hampers application later.
Therefore, as test prep professionals and those helping our children to prepare, we must emphasize the importance of learning the strategies and tactics inside and out, which means first memorizing them and then practicing them consistently.
The Precision of Tactics
The strategies and tactics available on Quiz Hacker Test Prep aren't mere general pointers or “tips.” They represent the culmination of nearly a decade of full-time test prep experience and a proven record of exceptional score gains.
Consequently, the language employed is precise: each word is deliberately chosen. These are not rough approximations but exact instructions that should be memorized word-for-word. They aren't simply suggestions. They are detailed instructions.
The strategies and tactics available on Quiz Hacker Test Prep aren't mere general pointers or “tips.” They represent the culmination of nearly a decade of full-time test prep experience and a proven record of exceptional score gains.
Beyond Understanding: The Need for Application
There's a common misconception that simply understanding strategies and tactics will magically boost scores. However, understanding itself is but a first step. The real magic comes from the consistent, deliberate practice of the tactics. And, you guessed it, the pathway to consistent application begins with thorough memorization.
If your understanding of a tactic is nebulous, your application will be inconsistent at best. To apply tactics consistently and effectively, they need to be fully imprinted in your memory.
The Role of Memorization in Speed and Accuracy
Finally, let's dispel the notion that memorization solely contributes to accuracy. Memorization also plays a critical role in speed. When facing a test question, even a few seconds spent recalling an approach can add up quickly and ramp up stress levels.
The pathway to consistent application begins with thorough memorization.
Our goal for test day? To have internalized the strategies and tactics so thoroughly that they've become second nature. This level of internalization starts, you guessed it again, with memorization.
Conclusion: Embrace the Art of Memorization
The truth, of course, is that the art of memorization is far from lost. It merely needs to be rediscovered. Let's equip our students and kids with not only the tools they need for their test prep challenges but also the ability to master these methods.
Looking for a deeper dive on these strategies and tactics? My Question Type Inventories provide a wealth of tactics and practice drills for every question on a given ACT or SAT exam. You can check them out by clicking here.
Until next week, happy prepping, and remember to Prep Smarter!
~ Dave Walker