An indispensable guide to acing the SAT, this book tells the story of a single mom’s mission to motivate her uninterested teenage son, Ethan, as he prepares for the test. Debbie Stier embarks on a journey to explore the myriad test-prep options available, sampling various methods to create the ultimate SAT prep strategy. Her experience becomes a mix of humor and heartache as she takes the SAT seven times in one year and immerses herself in the world of standardized testing. She discusses the significance of the SAT, the industries it has generated, and what truly works in test preparation versus what is ineffective. This narrative serves as both a toolbox of practical tips and a reflection on the clash between parental love and teenage indifference. Throughout her quest, Debbie engages with various prep resources, including Kaplan, Princeton Review, Kumon, and khanacademy.org, while consulting a grammar coach and taking intelligence tests. She addresses common concerns for test-prep novices, such as when to start, the effectiveness of brand-name services, the choice between tutors, classes, or self-study, and the impact of test location and scores on merit aid. With its blend of charm, authority, and unexpected depth, this book stands out as a compelling resource for SAT preparation and prompts readers to consider what truly matters in the process.
