Dear MEK Families,
I’m often asked what it takes to achieve a perfect score—because we’re known as test prep experts. While there’s no single formula, I believe there are four key principles that lead to true score success:
Define What “Perfect” Means for You
A perfect score might be a 1600 on the SAT, a 36 on the ACT, or reaching the 99th percentile. For others, it might be a 1350 or a 30—what matters most is that the score reflects your academic readiness and supports your college goals.
Remember, colleges use these scores to predict your success in your first year. The test is a measure of your ability to handle college-level work.
Know Where You Are Now – Self-Reflection
Test prep is a journey. It’s important to understand how far you’ve come and how far you still need to go. I strongly recommend keeping a Mistake Analysis Log (notebook).
Real growth doesn’t come from the score on one practice test—it comes from how you reflect on your mistakes, complete your assignments, and adjust your approach.
Learn Proactively
Test prep requires a different mindset than school learning. Getting A’s in school doesn’t automatically translate to high test scores. Standardized testing demands a newly acquired set of skills—ones that go beyond classroom success.
Be intentional in your approach. Learn how to study smarter, not just harder. Shifting your learning strategy from a school-based mindset to a test-prep mindset can significantly shorten your prep time and make your efforts more effective.
Stay Consistent and Persistent
One of my favorite quotes is: “Persistence will get you there. Consistency will keep you there.”
Test-taking is not something we do every day—it’s a skill that must be built and maintained. Staying in “test mode” up to your official test date is essential. Don’t let your momentum fade. Keep practicing with purpose.
Let me know if you’d like help setting up a Mistake Log or building a study plan based on these principles. I’m here to support your success.
Warm regards,
Ann Ahn
Head Academic Counselor, MEK Review
