Chad Cargill's ACT Test Prep

From a kid growing up in extreme poverty to now living in the United States, my son Creed gives his 6th-grade elementary graduation speech.

You are paying more for everything in 2021. While inflation in the United States runs rampant, ACT is fully on-board participating in the great rate hike of 2021. Hold on to your wallets! ACT is about to make bank off of you.

To the graduates of the Class of 2021, congratulations on your high school accomplishments. Now, I challenge you to live a life that matters.

Listen in as students post questions at the end of one of my online workshops. I answer as they are posted, and you can listen to all my answers in this episode.

Most ACT tests now have a 5th experimental section. Most stay and try on this section. In this episode, I explain what this section is and why you should never take it.

If you find yourself running out of time in reading, many students give up on the last passage. Using this simple tip, students who struggle finishing reading can immediately raise their scores.

Most students pick a dash if it looks good. Many test-takers have no idea the rules for using the dash. A dash is on almost every ACT test you take. In this episode, we'll review the rule for a dash and look at examples how it is used.

Follow these seven tips, and write a scholarship essay that wins.

Recently, I was asked during a workshop, "How do I stay focused during the ACT test?" In today's episode, I give 9 ways you can stay focused during the test. Let me know which ones of these distractions apply to you and how you handled them.

In this episode, we discuss two important rule changes that may affect when you take the ACT and how you keep time during the test.

Source: ACT.org (https://www.act.org/content/act/en/products-and-services/the-act/scores/understanding-your-scores.html) Mathematics 60 Preparing for higher math (57-60%) Number & Quantity (7–10%) Algebra (12–15%) Functions (12–15%) Geometry (12–15%) Statistics & Probability (8–12%) Integrating essential skills (40-43%) Modeling

Although the ACT has been virtually the same for the last few decades, there are subtle changes that are important to know. In this episode, we'll discuss some of the changes you'll see in the science section of the test. I Ordered My Test and Answers. Now What? https://podcast.chadcargill.com/4

According to Education Reform Now, approximately one-in-four college freshmen had to enroll in remedial courses during their first year in college. Looking at the total cost of these remedial classes, including private, public, and community colleges, the remedial class enrollment adds up to an estimated $1.5 billion annually. (Source: Study.com) Remedial (0-level) courses are identified by the first digit in the course number—a zero (0), e.g., UNIV 0123. These courses cannot be applied toward the degree, but do count for full-time enrollment status (except for honor roll eligibility). “0-level courses” can be counted toward NCAA athletic eligibility only if taken during the student’s freshman year. Some colleges use ACT scores to determine this. For some it will be at least a 19 in that ACT subsection. For others it will be a placement test students will take before enrolling. Freshman students receive recommendations regarding the need for remediation through the Entry Level Assessment Report (ELPA) provided when they enroll for their first semester. Remediation will normally take place during the first year on campus, preferably during the first semester. According to State Regents policy, curricular and performance deficiencies must be remediated within the first 24 hours of college credit. (Source: okstate.edu) Math Placement Exam Prior to enrolling in an OSU math class, you will need to complete the Math Placement Exam to ensure you have the best opportunity to succeed in your first math course. Incoming students should complete Math Placement after March 1 and it is recommended at least one week prior to your scheduled orientation program in order to enroll in math for your first semester. Please contact a local proctor to make neccessary arrangements, or If you have a webcam and a reliable Internet connection, you can take the Math Placement Exam with ProctorU for $10. Math Placement Exceptions There are a few exceptions for taking the math placement exam: The first exception is if you have taken a college-level math course that is posted on a college (not high school) transcript showing successful completion with a grade of “C” or better in a prerequisite or required math course for your intended major. You can find required prerequisites in OSU's Catalog for the math course(s) required for your major. The second exception is AP or CLEP exam credit. If you have your AP Calculus score and earned at least a 3 on the AB test, on the BC test, or on the AB subsection of the BC test, you do not need to take the math placement test. Please bring evidence of your AP score or CLEP exam credit to your orientation session. If you do not have your AP or CLEP scores, you should take the math placement test. Please note that zero-level, beginning algebra, intermediate algebra, and pre-college algebra courses are considered “pre-college level” and do not count as college-level math. Additionally, statistics courses do not serve as exceptions to taking the math placement. (Source: okstate.edu) OU- WHAT IS DEVELOPMENTAL STUDIES? The Developmental Studies program was developed to help students who do not meet the university's minimum mathematics, reading, and English requirements. Who Takes Developmental Studies Courses? The typical student is either a returning student who needs a refresher in mathematics, English, or reading before tackling college-level courses or a traditional student who does not have a strong foundation in high school mathematics, English, or reading. What Courses are Offered in Developmental Studies? Developmental English – This course is designed to prepare students for college-level English composition courses. It includes foundational techniques, such as developing strong thesis statements, constructing logical arguments, and utilizing communicative, persuasive rhetorical principles. Also included will be public speaking and presentation skills. This course serves as the prerequisite for Principles of English Composition (ENGL 1113). Developmental Reading – This course is designed to improve students’ reading skills in college courses. Skills presented will include improving vocabulary, active learning, concentration skills, finding main ideas, patterns of organization, note taking, outlining, annotating, point of view, and creative and critical thinking skills. Developmental Mathematics - These courses are designed to give students a refresher in mathematics, specifically basic and intermediate algebra. They serve as prerequisites to Mathematics for Critical Thinking (MATH 1473), College Algebra (MATH 1503), and Pre-calculus for Business, Life, and Social Science Majors (MATH 1643). How do Developmental Studies Courses Fit into OU Academics? Developmental Studies courses are zero-level courses that carry load credit only, counting towards full-time student status, including financial aid and all other aspects of student life. However, the courses do not satisfy degree requirements or count in GPA calculations. Developmental Studies courses must be taken and passed with a grade of C or higher before a student is allowed to take a college-level class, including mandatory Gen-Ed classes required for all OU degree programs. The Developmental Studies courses are to be taken upon intial enrollment at OU and in consecutive fall and spring semesters. How To Effectively Practice for the ACT https://podcast.chadcargill.com/33 How to avoid: 1. Take hard classes. 2. Take a English, math, and science classes your senior year. 3. Take my workshop. 4. Study my prep book. Your Test Day Checklist - What You Must Bring to the ACT https://podcast.chadcargill.com/37 Master These 5 Comma Rules and Raise Your ACT Score https://podcast.chadcargill.com/19

GPAs are used for many things like qualifications, scholarships, and even academic championships. Unless analyzed thoroughly and taken into context, they are almost meaningless numbers. Yet, many continue to use GPAs as a comparative measurement. In this episode, I'll tell you why they shouldn't.

What makes a question an IQ or a QBQ? In today's episode you'll meet John Miller who is the author of the most impactful book I've read other than the Bible itself. But be warned, this episode may change your life. QBQ! changed mine. Special Guest: John Miller.

As we start the new year, we reflect on the challenges of 2020 and turn our focus to a new beginning in 2021.

Are you a first instinct test-taker? Sometimes you're told, "Go with your gut" or "Pick whatever you initially thought was best." Is this true? If so, is it true for everyone? In this episode we dive into the strategy of first instinct test-taking. We'll identify what it is, examine why you would do it, and discuss how you can determine if you should use it. Articles referenced in the episode: https://www.edweek.org/teaching-learning/going-with-first-instinct-not-always-best-test-strategy-research-finds/2013/06 https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/articles/200505/the-first-instinct-fallacy

Drew Files was a great high school softball player at Moore High School in Moore, OK. While in high school, she wanted to use her talent as a way to inspire and help others. She decided to organize a softball game at her high school to raise money for a great cause. This softball game is now an annual event at the high school, making a huge difference for some amazing kids. Drew's legacy lives on through this game. In this episode, Drew shares her story and challenges students to make a difference as she did. Special Guest: Drew Files.

Clarity and Creed spent the first several years of their lives in an extremely impoverished area of the world. Their original home is Kinshasa which is the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo. After almost 5 years in the United States, they have a much different perspective of school than most who have always lived here in the United States. In this episode, Creed and Clarity share why they are thankful for their school and the United States.

Students wonder if they should take the ACT writing test. And if so, how should the essay be written to get a great score. In this episode, we break down the ACT writing test and look at the strategies needed to maximize your score.

In high school, choosing between who and whom was very difficult for me. But once I learned a simple trick, this became one of the easiest things in the English language. In this episode, we dive back into the English section of the ACT and learn when to pick who and when to choose whom. Louis Zamporini is a man _ I respect. It was King Henry VIII _ had six wives. I talked with Teresa _ was trying to paint the walls of her new living room. There is the new student _ you were asking about. For _ did Molly vote? _ will give the graduation speech on Friday evening? Our new neighbor, _ we met yesterday morning, works at Conoco. With _ are you rooming with for your freshman year at college? whom 2. who 3. who 4. whom 5. whom 6. Who 7. whom 8. whom He gave it to John and me/I. John and me/I went to the game. Between you and me/I, let's keep that a secret.

Many students say they want to be an engineer, but what kind of engineer is the question. In this episode, I explain the main types of engineering degrees and the general purpose of each type. Types of Engineering Degrees Offered at Oklahoma State Aerospace What is aerospace engineering? Aerospace engineering is the study of the science and technology of flight, and the design of air, land and sea vehicles for transportation and exploration. Biosystems What is biosystems engineering? The study of biosystems engineering merges engineering and agricultural science to improve our quality of life while maintaining the environment and preserving our natural resources. Chemical What is chemical engineering? Chemical engineering is a discipline focused on conceiving and designing processes to produce, transform and transport materials — beginning with experimentation in the laboratory followed by implementation of the technology. Civil What is civil engineering? Civil Engineering is one of the oldest engineering disciplines with the focus on the built environment that encompasses much of what defines modern civilization: buildings, bridges, roads, etc. Computer What is computer engineering? Computer engineering encompasses a broad range of technologies that utilize digital devices for the benefit of society. Subdisciplines include digital electronics, VLSI chips, embedded controllers, networking, software development, memory and storage devices, cloud computing, internet-of-things, computer security, application-specific IC's, graphics processing units, and computer architecture. Electrical What is electrical engineering? Electrical Engineering encompasses a broad range of technologies that utilize electricity for the benefit of society. Subdisciplines include energy systems, machines, power electronics, analog electronics, instrumentation, sensors, signal processing, machine vision, communications, robotics, wireless devices, radar, photonics, biomedical devices, and artificial intelligence. Industrial What is industrial engineering? Industrial Engineering and Management (IEM) is an engineering discipline that focuses on designing, operating, managing, and continuously improving manufacturing and service systems so that they are effective and efficient. Mechanical What is mechanical engineering? Mechanical Engineering is focused on a learning and research environment to instruct and encourage our students to reach their full potential in technical expertise, innovative expression and collaborative design. US News and World Report Mechanical Engineer 32 in 100 Best Jobs Someone with a mechanical engineering degree has many job options for his or her career path. The skills of a mechanical engineer are needed in many industries and on many types of projects, from vehicle manufacturing to nanotechnology. Mechanical engineers are involved in the production of mechanical instruments and tools from start to finish, and their work includes aspects of design, development and testing. PROJECTED JOBS 12,800 MEDIAN SALARY $87,370 EDUCATION NEEDED Bachelor's Civil Engineer 33 in 100 Best Jobs From the street in front of your home to the Golden Gate Bridge, civil engineers are responsible for the design and maintenance of public works and facilities. Civil engineers are involved from start to finish in the process of constructing buildings, bridges and roads. PROJECTED JOBS 20,500 MEDIAN SALARY $86,640 EDUCATION NEEDED Bachelor's

When I worked as an engineer at Lucent Technologies, we used benchmarking to study other companies, processes, and systems. Certain practices would be identified as "Best in Class." Some high schools have features, processes, and cultures that fit the "Best in Class" standard. In this episode, we discuss a few of these and why I call these "Best in Class."

Are you making sure you have everything you need for the morning of the ACT? This episode provides a checklist to make sure you are ready to walk out the door with everything you need to take the ACT.

Does what you eat the morning of the ACT help you raise your score? If so, what should those foods be?

Students often pick their testing locations strickly on location, but there are 6 key factors you should consider to find the best test center for you.

Often, indefinite pronouns are used incorrectly. Even though I teach how to use them, I still make mistakes. Today I’m going to explain how to correctly use indefinite pronouns. And stick around for the end of the episode because I’ll tell you a small part of our adoptive family story. Learn more about embryo adoption at https://www.embryodonation.org. Join Last Chance Prep Oct 2020 and you will: • Review Key Content Asked on ACTs • Solidify Your Knowledge of Math Formulas and Calculator Usage • Verify Your Method and Timing in Reading • Be Able to Ask Last Minute Questions Directly to Chad Cargill • Reduce Test Anxiety • Have Confidence You are Ready • Crush Any Last Minute Weaknesses https://academy.chadcargill.com

A lot of students want to practice for the ACT, but effectively practicing for the ACT is much different than what most students are doing. In this episode, I'll teach you how to be purposeful and intentional with your ACT practice. Following these simple steps, your practice will be so effective, you'll be in prime position to see a direct result in your increased ACT score. Register now for Last Chance Prep with Chad Cargill. Just go to academy.chadcargill.com (academy.chadcargill.com), and save your spot. I’d love to connect with you and keep you posted on upcoming episodes and resources. For a free downloadable pdf What Scholarship Committees Look for and How to Win Them, go to scholarships.chadcargill.com (http://scholarships.chadcargill.com), and get your guide now. For a free downloadable pdf of Key Things You Must Know on Test Day, go to testday.chadcargill.com (testday.chadcargill.com), and get your guide now. If you enjoyed the podcast, please leave a review on your podcast app. Leave a shout out for your high school, and I may read it on a future podcast. If you have questions, leave a comment here or on the Chad Cargill Workshops Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/Chad-Cargill-Workshops-22077611182/?ref=bookmarks) page. To view the workshop calendar, go to calendar.chadcargill.com (http://calendar.chadcargill.com). You can also order the prep book Chad Cargill's ACT and sign up for speed reading at chadcargill.com. If you are interested in hosting a workshop at your high school, call our office at (405) 454-3233 or email penny@chadcargill.com. chadcargill.com (http://www.chadcargill.com) Twitter: @ChadCargill Thanks for listening to the podcast!

This week we conclude our three-part series on misconceptions about the ACT. Often, I hear people telling students what they should do to raise their ACT scores. Sometimes it's valid, but far too many times, it's not accurate. In this episode, I clear even more misconceptions about the ACT.

Often, I hear people telling students what they should do to raise their ACT scores. Sometimes it's valid, but far too many times, it's not accurate. In this episode, I clear many more misconceptions about the ACT.

Often, I hear people telling students what they should do to raise their ACT scores. Sometimes it's valid, but far too many times, it's not accurate. In this episode I debunk many misconceptions about the ACT.

Tech centers could be called "The Artist Formally Known as Vo-Tech." The programs, facilities, and awaiting jobs make tech centers a great option for many students. Karen Koehn of NW Technology Center in Alva, OK joins the podcast to discuss what tech centers offer and why every student should consider them. https://www.okcareertech.org (https://www.okcareertech.org) I’d love to connect with you and keep you posted on upcoming episodes and resources. For a free downloadable pdf What Scholarship Committees Look for and How to Win Them, go to scholarships.chadcargill.com (http://scholarships.chadcargill.com), and get your guide now. For a free downloadable pdf of Key Things You Must Know on Test Day, go to testday.chadcargill.com (testday.chadcargill.com), and get your guide now. If you enjoyed the podcast, please leave a review on your podcast app. Leave a shout out for your high school, and I may read it on a future podcast. If you have questions, leave a comment here or on the Chad Cargill Workshops Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/Chad-Cargill-Workshops-22077611182/?ref=bookmarks) page. To view the workshop calendar, go to calendar.chadcargill.com (http://calendar.chadcargill.com). You can also order the prep book Chad Cargill's ACT and sign up for speed reading at chadcargill.com. If you are interested in hosting a workshop at your high school, call our office at (405) 454-3233 or email penny@chadcargill.com. chadcargill.com (http://www.chadcargill.com) Twitter: @ChadCargill Thanks for listening to the podcast! Special Guest: Karen Koehn.

Join Tulsa Union HS College and Career counselors Chanda Gibson and Emily Ashley as they share a wealth of knowlege to help you navigate scholarships, careers, and ACTs. This episode is loaded with information for students, parents, and fellow counselors. Resource links from this episode: occf.org tulsacf.org cfok.org scholarships.chadcargill.com College Point Advising https://www.collegepoint.info College Essay Guy - Ethan Sawyer https://www.collegeessayguy.com Books mentioned on the show: College Essay Essentials by Ethan Sawyer https://www.collegeessayguy.com Heretics for Armchair Theologians by Justo Gonzalez iGen: Why Today's Super-Connected Kids Are Growing Up Less Rebellious, More Tolerant, Less Happy--and Completely Unprepared for Adulthood--and What That Means for the Rest of Us by Jean M. Twenge PhD The Broken Way: A Daring Path into the Abundant Life by Ann Voskamp Bonhoeffer: Pastor, Martyr, Prophet, Spy by Eric Metaxas Amazing Grace: William Wilberforce and the Heroic Campaign to End Slavery by Eric Metaxas Martin Luther: The Man Who Rediscovered God and Changed the World by Eric Metaxas Be the Bridge: Pursuing God's Heart for Racial Reconciliation by Latasha Morrison , Jennie Allen , et al. Tulsa Union College and Career Center https://www.unionps.org/231918_2 Special Guests: Chanda Gibson and Dr. Jeanie Webb.

Do you wonder what to do next to raise your scores and win scholarships? Do you ever feel alone in your journey? Everyone needs mentors in life and in the pursuit of test prep, scholarships, and careers. In this episode, I’ll talk about different places to find mentorship and why mentorship is so important. HS Counselors Teachers Tech Center Counselors College Admissions and Scholarship Offices Business Leaders - Especially those involved in scholarships and community programs Fellow Parents Co-Ops Coaching/Mastermind Groups Chad Cargill's Test Prep Academy (https://academy.chadcargill.com) Mastermind Group Details: Parents of Seniors Class of 2021 (Limited to 10) Parents of Juniors Class of 2022 (Limited to 10) Parents of Sophomores and Freshmen Class of 2023 & 2024 (Limited to 10) Join up to 9 other parents to navigate your student's year of high school. You'll get personal access to Chad Cargill as well as a community of like-minded parents working together to help our students raise ACT scores and win scholarships. You can cancel your membership at any time. Benefits include: Each Semester One Personal Video Call with Chad Cargill -You will join Chad in a video call to discuss your specific questions and test-prep plan. -Discuss your goals, analyze your ACT scores, talk about your college plans, and examine future steps. Each Month a 1-hour Group Video Call with Chad Cargill and Fellow Masterminds -Be encouraged and challenged by Chad and fellow masterminds. -Discuss challenges, opportunities, blockers, and goals. -Collaborate with other masterminds and ask Chad questions. One Resume or Scholarship Application Review by Chad Cargill -Drawing on his experience directing scholarship committees at both the university and local levels, work in corporate recruiting, and advising scholarship graders, Chad will analyze your student's resume/scholarship app. -Optimize the wording on your leadership and community service projects. -Prioritize what should and should not be included. Direct Access to Chad Cargill and Other Masterminds through Discord Messaging Group -Access the live messaging group through Discord messaging app. -Build community with other masterminds by posting your questions, successes, ideas, and encouragements. -Ask questions on dedicated channels including Scholarships, ACT Tests, College Visits, and more. -Post on your hotseat channel monthly goals, questions, and updates. 50% Discount on All Online Courses in the Chad Cargill Test Prep Online Academy -Purchase any course in the academy for half the regular price. -Take your ACT Prep to the next level as Chad teaches in-depth workshops on specific sections of the ACT and scholarships. I’d love to connect with you and keep you posted on upcoming episodes and resources. For a free downloadable pdf What Scholarship Committees Look for and How to Win Them, go to scholarships.chadcargill.com (http://scholarships.chadcargill.com), and get your guide now. For a free downloadable pdf of Key Things You Must Know on Test Day, go to testday.chadcargill.com (testday.chadcargill.com), and get your guide now. If you enjoyed the podcast, please leave a review on your podcast app. Leave a shout out for your high school, and I may read it on a future podcast. If you have questions, leave a comment here or on the Chad Cargill Workshops Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/Chad-Cargill-Workshops-22077611182/?ref=bookmarks) page. To view the workshop calendar, go to calendar.chadcargill.com (http://calendar.chadcargill.com). You can also order the prep book Chad Cargill's ACT and sign up for speed reading at chadcargill.com. If you are interested in hosting a workshop at your high school, call our office at (405) 454-3233 or email penny@chadcargill.com. chadcargill.com (http://www.chadcargill.com) Twitter: @ChadCargill Thanks for listening to the podcast!

Do you get stuck on an ACT math question and waste tons of time? Could you backsolve more efficiently? Do you freak out at the end of the math test because the problems are difficult and you're almost out of time? If so, this episode is for you. If a problem is getting extremely long and difficult, you are approaching it the wrong way. You should stop working and decide whether to approach the problem another way or simply guess and go to the next problem. On trial and error problems, start with the middle choice if the choices are in order from least to greatest or greatest to least, and start with the last choice and work to the first choice if the choices are random. In general, the problems get harder as you take the test. You may want to start with problem number 60 and work back to problem number 1.

Students say the ACT Science section is the most confusing. Once you understand the test is reasoning and not content, the section becomes much more clear. In this episode, we discuss the difference in concrete versus reasoning learners. We explore how those learners approach the questions differently. Finally, we examine some scenarios and analyze them from a literal, concrete approach versus a reasoning approach.

ACT oulines calculator rules on their site actstudent.org. The rules have changed a lot over the last two decades. Below are the links and explanations from their website as of July 15, 2020. http://www.act.org/content/dam/act/unsecured/documents/ACT-calculator-policy.pdf https://www.act.org/content/act/en/products-and-services/the-act/help.html You can call 800.498.6481 for a recorded message containing highlights from this policy. Can I use a calculator? The ACT calculator policy is designed to ensure fairness for all examinees, avoid disturbances in the testing room, and protect the security of the test materials. For more information view the latest Calculator Policy (PDF). Please visit our FAQ for Computer Algebra System (CAS) Functionality for more information. Frequently Asked Questions - Computer Algebra System (CAS) Functionality Note: These FAQs may be updated from time to time. Q1: How does the policy apply to calculators that cannot hold programs and documents? A: Not all calculators have the capability to hold programs and documents. If the calculator you bring to take the ACT Mathematics Test cannot hold programs and documents, then these clarifications do not affect you. Q2: What is computer algebra system (CAS) functionality? A: A computer algebra system typically solves equations algebraically, simplifies expressions, performs algebraic manipulations, and performs exact arithmetic (for example, does not round or truncate decimal places). A computer algebra system is also a system, potentially doing many levels of analysis at the same time. Examples include, but are not limited to, Zoom-Math, APP4MATH, F2K, etc. Q3: Why can't I use a computer algebra system on the ACT Mathematics test? A: A computer algebra system has a valid place in mathematics, and learning how to use the tool effectively is valuable. The ACT Mathematics Test does not assess this skill. Being college and career ready in mathematics requires that a student be able to analyze algebraic expressions and equations, knowing what to do in order to solve problems. Q4: My calculator holds apps as well as programs. Are apps allowed? A: Apps that have CAS functionality must be removed as well. Even though your calculator may have separate buttons or places to store apps versus programs, an app is a kind of program. For the purposes of this policy, the definition of “program” includes apps. Any time the word “program” is used, it should be interpreted to include apps as well. Q5: Do ALL programs have to be removed? What about documents? A: Only programs that have CAS functionality must be removed. All documents, however, must be removed regardless of their purpose or function. Q6: Can you tell me if a specific program or app is allowed? A: Given the proliferation of math resources/tools, ACT is not fully familiar with all mathematics programs and apps that are available for use on a calculator. If you are unsure whether a program or app is prohibited, our recommendation is to not install it or remove it before test day. Q7: Is it OK to disable programs instead of removing them? A: ACT's calculator policy calls for the programs to be removed. Disabling programs – for example, putting the calculator in Press to Test mode – is not enough. Q8: If I have to remove programs from my calculator, how do I get them back on it after I test? A: Many calculators have a way of restoring programs if they have been saved outside the calculator. If you have programs that you need to remove and you do not know how to save and restore, we recommend you check with your calculator company for details well in advance of test day. Q9: What kinds of mathematics-related programs ARE allowed? A: The kinds of mathematics-related programs permitted for the ACT allow students to use the calculator capabilities to do the routine calculations yet require students to show their analysis skills by choosing the right operations and process. Mathematics-related programs are allowed if they are single-purpose – for example, finding numeric solutions to a quadratic equation. A student must choose the right program for the right purpose. This is much the same as choosing the right formula for the right purpose. Q10: Are there any rules that allowed mathematics-related programs must follow? A: Programs must be written in the language of the calculator. Programs written in a different language, compiled, and loaded onto the calculator are not allowed. In this way, the programs can be examined on the calculator and will use calculator functions. Programs must not be lengthy. The limit is 25 logical lines of code. Programs cannot call another program. Techniques such as compressing code into a data statement are not allowed as a way of getting around this limit. Programs are allowed to change the value of system variables so that results may, for example, be graphed through the normal calculator graphing interface. I’d love to connect with you and keep you posted on upcoming episodes and resources. For a free downloadable pdf What Scholarship Committees Look for and How to Win Them, go to scholarships.chadcargill.com (http://scholarships.chadcargill.com), and get your guide now. For a free downloadable pdf of Key Things You Must Know on Test Day, go to testday.chadcargill.com (testday.chadcargill.com), and get your guide now. If you enjoyed the podcast, please leave a review on your podcast app. Leave a shout out for your high school, and I may read it on a future podcast. If you have questions, leave a comment here or on the Chad Cargill Workshops Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/Chad-Cargill-Workshops-22077611182/?ref=bookmarks) page. To view the workshop calendar, go to calendar.chadcargill.com (http://calendar.chadcargill.com). You can also order the prep book Chad Cargill's ACT and sign up for speed reading at chadcargill.com. If you are interested in hosting a workshop at your high school, call our office at (405) 454-3233 or email penny@chadcargill.com. chadcargill.com (http://www.chadcargill.com) Twitter: @ChadCargill Thanks for listening to the podcast!

Jackson Cargill is currently an incoming freshman at Stanford University. Getting accepted to Stanford didn't just happen. He worked years to have this opportunity. Jackson discusses many keys to his journey in this episode. Special Guest: Jackson Cargill.

In this episode, we are joined by one of my greatest mentors and heroes, my brother Lance Cargill. We took similar college paths early on. Then, Lance made a critical decision that shaped much of what he believes about college choice. Now, our kids have chosen similar paths to what each of us chose. Today we look at the pros and cons of choosing between moving to attend a prestigious university versus staying close to home to attend a local university. Special Guest: Lance Cargill.

The average adult reads about 200-250wpm. Really fast readers will be over 700wpm. President John F. Kennedy read at 1200wpm. Some prestigious universities, I’m told, even require speed reading courses prior to starting your freshman year. So how do you get to these speeds, and how at these speeds, can we comprehend what we read? Common mistakes: Don’t speak what you read Don’t do silent lip movements Don’t breath what you read -Speak: Eyes stop at every word. Only read as fast as you can speak. -Lip movements: Slightly faster. But still stopping on each word until your mind says it. Some get around this by not moving lips, but reading like a ventriloquist. Often this is because an elementary teacher or parent said to stop moving your mouth when you read. -Breathing: Breathing out as you read is like inflating a balloon. Do it fast enough for a 40 minute ACT, you’ll pass out. Keys: -Read with your eyes only -Visualize -Read in groups of words rather than each word Exercise: Create a simple sentence using: Morning Trip Art Museum Your sentence would be something like: In the morning, we're taking a trip to an art museum. -Keep your eyes moving through the page. To do this on your own: -Get a book. Seriously! Go to the library. For ACT purposes, I like a book with narrow columns about the width of an ACT column. Start a timer for three minutes. Start reading. Using a note card, black out the words from the top of the page down. Slide the card at a rate slightly uncomfortable and keep it moving. Each time you get comfortable, speed it up. At the end of three minutes, get up and stretch. Let your eyes rest. After a brief break of maybe 15-30 seconds, set the timer for two minutes. Begin reading where you left off without sliding the card. Keep your eyes moving through the page. When the timer ends, put your book away. Do this each day for a week, and see what happens. Another exercise: Download the YouVersion Bible app. Put it on audio of the English Standard Version (ESV). Increase the speed to 1.25x or whatever is slightly faster than you read. Scroll as he reads. Keep increasing the speed. You’ll quickly learn to read in groups of words and focus on key words. Your comprehension actually increases. If you don’t want to do all this manually, use our speed reading software speedreading.chadcargill.com (http://speedreading.chadcargill.com/). This software allows you to set your baseline speed and automatically tracks your progress. How does it work? You will complete three types of exercises focusing on visualization, word grouping, and eye movement. As you progress, you’ll unlock increased speed levels and eventually work your way to the coveted Ninja badge - 1000 words per minute.   Once you create your account, you’ll establish your baseline speed.  After completing a series of exercises, you’ll complete a challenge to see if you’ve mastered the speed.  Get the comprehension questions correct, and you’ll jump to the next level. For each challenge, a passage appears on the screen. We slide a virtual "index card" over the words as you read the passage. Answer the comprehension questions correct, and you unlock the next badge. 1 yr subscription $39 “Using your book and speed reading program, I was able to improve my reading score by 6 points!  My last 3 tests, the highest I was able to get was a 25.  I got my scores back from the September test and I got a 31 in reading.” Sammie Owasso, OK I’d love to connect with you and keep you posted on upcoming episodes and resources. For a free downloadable pdf What Scholarship Committees Look for and How to Win Them, go to scholarships.chadcargill.com (http://scholarships.chadcargill.com), and get your guide now. For a free downloadable pdf of Key Things You Must Know on Test Day, go to testday.chadcargill.com (testday.chadcargill.com), and get your guide now. If you enjoyed the podcast, please leave a review on your podcast app. Leave a shout out for your high school, and I may read it on a future podcast. If you have questions, leave a comment here or on the Chad Cargill Workshops Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/Chad-Cargill-Workshops-22077611182/?ref=bookmarks) page. To view the workshop calendar, go to calendar.chadcargill.com (http://calendar.chadcargill.com). You can also order the prep book Chad Cargill's ACT and sign up for speed reading at chadcargill.com. If you are interested in hosting a workshop at your high school, call our office at (405) 454-3233 or email penny@chadcargill.com. chadcargill.com (http://www.chadcargill.com) Twitter: @ChadCargill Thanks for listening to the podcast!

Some athletes believe their ACT scores, high school classes, and grades won't matter. The NCAA says differently. Athletes must be an NCAA qualifier to compete. Part of the requirements is a combination of ACT and core GPA. You must meet the minimum core requirements to qualify. This varies by division. NCAA's Use of ACT Scores: 1. Use a sliding scale of ACT and GPA. 2. Do not use ACT writing. 3. Use superscores. Some colleges have their own requirements higher than the NCAA. Some schools internally use a tier system for recruited athletes. If you think you may want to be a college athlete: -Verify you are on track to have all required core courses. -Calculate your core GPA -Calculate your superscore -Register with the NCAA Eligibility Center http://www.ncaa.org/student-athletes/future/educational-resources (http://www.ncaa.org/student-athletes/future/educational-resources) Division 1 Fact Sheet http://fs.ncaa.org/Docs/eligibilitycenter/StudentResources/DI_ReqsFactSheet.pdf (http://fs.ncaa.org/Docs/eligibility_center/Student_Resources/DI_ReqsFactSheet.pdf) FULL QUALIFIER • Complete 16 core courses. • Ten of the 16 core courses must be completed before the seventh semester (senior year) of high school. • Seven of the 10 core courses must be in English, math or natural/physical science. • Earn a core-course GPA of at least 2.300. • Earn an SAT combined score or ACT sum score matching the core-course. GPA on the Division I sliding scale (Click on fact sheet link above) • Graduate high school. Division 2 Fact Sheet http://fs.ncaa.org/Docs/eligibilitycenter/StudentResources/DII_ReqsFactSheet.pdf (http://fs.ncaa.org/Docs/eligibility_center/Student_Resources/DII_ReqsFactSheet.pdf) FULL QUALIFIER • Complete 16 core courses. • Earn a core-course GPA of at least 2.200. • Earn an SAT combined score or ACT sum score matching the core-course. GPA on the Division II full qualifier sliding scale (see back page). • Graduate high school. Many sports teams offer partial athletic scholarships. Often, these partials can be supplemented with academic scholarships. Objective scholarships are defined as money given to every student who meets defined objectives which are typically ACT and GPA related. I’d love to connect with you and keep you posted on upcoming episodes and resources. For a free downloadable pdf What Scholarship Committees Look for and How to Win Them, go to scholarships.chadcargill.com (http://scholarships.chadcargill.com), and get your guide now. For a free downloadable pdf of Key Things You Must Know on Test Day, go to testday.chadcargill.com (testday.chadcargill.com), and get your guide now. If you enjoyed the podcast, please leave a review on your podcast app. Leave a shout out for your high school, and I may read it on a future podcast. If you have questions, leave a comment here or on the Chad Cargill Workshops Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/Chad-Cargill-Workshops-22077611182/?ref=bookmarks) page. To view the workshop calendar, go to calendar.chadcargill.com (http://calendar.chadcargill.com). You can also order the prep book Chad Cargill's ACT and sign up for speed reading at chadcargill.com. If you are interested in hosting a workshop at your high school, call our office at (405) 454-3233 or email penny@chadcargill.com. chadcargill.com (http://www.chadcargill.com) Twitter: @ChadCargill Thanks for listening to the podcast!

There are five key comma rules you must know to score well in ACT English. 1. Use a comma to separate main clauses joined by a coordinating conjunction. The common coordinating conjunctions are and, but, or, nor, for, so, and yet. A main clause is one that has both a subject (s) and a verb (v). EX: We went to the store, and we spent our money. S/V, and S/V. -Some memorize the conjunctions with the word FAN BOYS 2. Set off words, phrases, and clauses that are not needed (nonessential). Use commas around nonessential, transitional, or contrasting information. Non-restrictive elements function much like appositives. 3 Examples Below: 1. Intense preparation, then, is known to produce higher test scores. (transitional) 2. Robert Frost, a Pulitzer Prize winner, is known for his poem “Birches.” (nonessential) 3. Robert Kurson, not Stephen King, is my favorite author. (contrasting) 3. Use a comma after an introductory phrase, clause, and adverb. Short introductory prepositional phrases do not require commas unless needed for clarity. 3 Examples Below: 1. To be able to compete on the collegiate level, many high school athletes practice their sport all year. 2. If you are counting on a college scholarship, pay attention to your grades, class rank, community service, and standardized test scores. 3. Occasionally, the person actually responsible for the vandalism will be caught and pay the damage. 4. A series can be defined as three or more words, phrases, or clauses in a sentence that have the same grammatical rank. EX: I am taking biology, calculus and history. -The comma before the word _and _is optional. 5. Use commas to separate adjectives in a series that describe the same word. EX: The old, blue shirt was worn today. EX: The dark blue shirt was worn today. The second sentence does not have a comma between dark and blue because dark describes blue; whereas, in the first sentence old does not describe blue. -Can you replace the comma with the word and? -Can you reverse the words? Pages 41-49 of Chad Cargill's ACT prep book provides these rules, examples, exercises, and model ACT questions. I’d love to connect with you and keep you posted on upcoming episodes and resources. For a free downloadable pdf What Scholarship Committees Look for and How to Win Them, go to scholarships.chadcargill.com (http://scholarships.chadcargill.com), and get your guide now. For a free downloadable pdf of Key Things You Must Know on Test Day, go to testday.chadcargill.com (testday.chadcargill.com), and get your guide now. If you enjoyed the podcast, please leave a review on your podcast app. Leave a shout out for your high school, and I may read it on a future podcast. If you have questions, leave a comment here or on the Chad Cargill Workshops Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/Chad-Cargill-Workshops-22077611182/?ref=bookmarks) page. To view the workshop calendar, go to calendar.chadcargill.com (http://calendar.chadcargill.com). You can also order the prep book Chad Cargill's ACT and sign up for speed reading at chadcargill.com. If you are interested in hosting a workshop at your high school, call our office at (405) 454-3233 or email penny@chadcargill.com. chadcargill.com (http://www.chadcargill.com) Twitter: @ChadCargill Thanks for listening to the podcast!

Eight weeks from now, many will look back and wonder what happened to the summer break. Complete even a few of the items on this summer checklist, and you'll likely have had a productive college prep summer. Start a project (See episode #14 for details). scholarships.chadcargill.com (http://scholarships.chadcargill.com) Research colleges and majors (Upcoming episodes to discuss). Tour a few college campuses both large and small, near and far. Review 4-year high school course plan (See episode #5 as an example for math). Review college courses required for different majors (Upcoming episode to discuss). Work a blue collor job or fast-food job and save money. Get your prep book and start working lessons. Take a CLEP test for a subject just completed in high school (See episode #17). If you ordered a past ACT, start analyzing misses (see episode #4 how to do this). Practice speed reading. speedreading.chadcargill.com (http://speedreading.chadcargill.com/) Read consistently. Love people! I’d love to connect with you and keep you posted on upcoming episodes and resources. For a free downloadable pdf What Scholarship Committees Look for and How to Win Them, go to scholarships.chadcargill.com (http://scholarships.chadcargill.com), and get your guide now. For a free downloadable pdf of Key Things You Must Know on Test Day, go to testday.chadcargill.com (testday.chadcargill.com), and get your guide now. If you enjoyed the podcast, please leave a review on your podcast app. Leave a shout out for your high school, and I may read it on a future podcast. If you have questions, leave a comment here or on the Chad Cargill Workshops Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/Chad-Cargill-Workshops-22077611182/?ref=bookmarks) page. To view the workshop calendar, go to calendar.chadcargill.com (http://calendar.chadcargill.com). You can also order the prep book Chad Cargill's ACT and sign up for speed reading at chadcargill.com. If you are interested in hosting a workshop at your high school, call our office at (405) 454-3233 or email penny@chadcargill.com. chadcargill.com (http://www.chadcargill.com) Twitter: @ChadCargill Thanks for listening to the podcast!

"CLEP exams help students earn college credit for what they already know, for a fraction of the cost of a college course." -College Board CLEP website $89 (Subject to change) plus small administration fee charged by test center. Most tests last 90 minutes. Key CLEP Facts: Students take CLEP exams on a computer at official CLEP test centers. CLEP exams contain multiple-choice questions. CLEP exams take about 90–120 minutes to complete, depending on the exam subject. CLEP exams are offered year-round at more than 2,000 CLEP test centers across the country. Students receive their CLEP exam scores immediately after completing the exam (except for College Composition and Spanish with Writing). More than 2,900 U.S. colleges and universities grant credit for CLEP. A college’s CLEP credit policy explains: -Which CLEP exams are accepted by the institution -What CLEP score you need to receive credit -How many credits are awarded for a particular CLEP exam The policy may also include other guidelines, such as the maximum number of credits a student can earn through CLEP. Before signing up for a CLEP exam, talk with your academic advisor to figure out how an exam fits in with your education plan." -From clep.collegeboard.com website Who Can Take CLEP Exams? Anyone interested in earning college credit and saving time and money can take a CLEP exam. CLEP launched in 1967 as a way for adult students and military service members to earn degrees inexpensively while also being able to meet work and family responsibilities. 34 different exams are offered for CLEP credit: Composition and Literature These exams cover topics related to American and British literature and composition. American Literature Analyzing and Interpreting Literature College Composition College Composition Modular English Literature Humanities World Languages These exams assess comprehension of French, German, and Spanish. French Language: Levels 1 and 2 German Language: Levels 1 and 2 Spanish Language: Levels 1 and 2 Spanish with Writing: Levels 1 and 2 History and Social Sciences These exams cover topics related to history, economics, and psychology. American Government History of the United States I History of the United States II Human Growth and Development Introduction to Educational Psychology Introductory Psychology Introductory Sociology Principles of Macroeconomics Principles of Microeconomics Social Sciences and History Western Civilization I: Ancient Near East to 1648 Western Civilization II: 1648 to the Present Science and Mathematics These exams cover various science disciplines and different levels of math. Biology Calculus Chemistry College Algebra College Mathematics Natural Sciences Precalculus Business These exams cover various business disciplines. Financial Accounting Information Systems Introductory Business Law Principles of Management Principles of Marketing Search for the college or university on the College Board website by clicking on "See Which Colleges Accept CLEP." For Example: Oklahoma State University in Stillwater accepts these for credit: OSU - Stillwater Exams, Minimum Score for Credit, Credit Hours Awarded Business Financial Accounting, 50, 3 Introductory Business Law, 50, 3 Principles of Management, 50, 3 Principles of Marketing, 50, 3 Composition and Literature College Composition, 54, 3 Foreign Languages French Language Level I, 50, 6 French Language Level II, 59, 9 German Language Level I, 50, 6 German Language Level II, 60, 9 Spanish Language Level I, 50, 6 Spanish Language Level II, 63, 9 History and Social Sciences American Government, 50, 3 Human Growth and Development, 50, 3 Introduction to Educational Psychology, 50, 3 Introductory Psychology, 50, 3 Introductory Sociology, 50, 3 Principles of Macroeconomics, 50, 3 Principles of Microeconomics, 50, 3 Science and Mathematics Biology, 50, 4 Calculus, 50, 4 Chemistry, 50, 9 College Algebra, 50, 3 Precalculus, 50, 5 Order Transcripts ($20 fee per transcript) To award credit for CLEP, colleges, universities, or other organizations typically require that you send an official CLEP transcript. https://clep.collegeboard.org (https://clep.collegeboard.org)

Avoid these interview mistakes: • Glance at watch • Chum up with friend on interview staff • Only look at one person when answering • Hold pencil or pen and play with it during interview • Chew gum • Lounge, slump, or recline in chair • When brought into interview room (area), interviewee just grabs a chair without being told where to sit • Elaborates on one answer too long • Starts questioning interviewer with questions like the following: -"Well, what would you do?" -"What are your thoughts on this subject?" -"Tell me what is your biggest weakness?" • Gets overly excited about an answer (ex. A football player talking about a game.) • Say phrases like (you know, yah, honestly, okay, sure, man, etc.) Not that being personal is bad, but overusing these phrases takes away from the quality of you and your answers. • Set like a statue with a moving mouth and blinking eyes only • Many exaggerated movements with hands, arms, back (leaning), and legs (crossing and shaking). • Repetitive finger movements like twiddling thumbs, cracking knuckles, or taping fingers. • Use large words that you really don't know what they mean (proverbial, paradigm, diabolical, etc.) If you really know what they mean and they are appropriate, then use them. • Blame someone else for a problem you had. Make excuses for your actions. • Be overly arrogant. Just brag on yourself beyond what is appropriate. • Correct the interviewer's grammar or pronunciation of a word. • Interrupt the interviewer's question with something you want to say. • Answer a different question than was asked. • Answer a question by talking negatively about yourself • Answer every question in very general terms. Never be specific about any experience or quality you have. • Get noticeably frustrated with the interviewer when he/she asks very specific questions about an uncomfortable topic for you. • Answer questions about a team by taking all the credit and giving no credit to the team. • Have the interviewee's cell phone, pager, or watch alarm sound. • Assuming this is a job interview, ask, "How much vacation do I get?" Here are a few interview elements that are acceptable, but students may perceive them as bad. • The interviewee pausing a few seconds before answering a really difficult question. • The interviewee getting choked, coughing several times, and asking for a drink of water or a very quick break for a drink.

Interviews are inevitable. We all have to face them. You will have interviews for scholarships, clubs, organizations, internships, and ultimately permanent jobs. You should review potential, common questions you may be asked in an interview. Consider the questions and formulate a brief answer. Write a few bullet points for each question. Before you go to an interview, review your answers as practice. You can also have a friend ask you these questions as practice. INTERVIEWING BASICS • Dress appropriately Boys should wear a suit with a reasonable tie. The tie should just cover the buckle of the belt. The belt should match the color of the shoes. Shoes should be brown or black. Do not wear white socks. Pants should completely cover your socks and the back of the pant leg should reach the heel of your shoe. A black, gray, or dark blue suit is recommended. A well pressed white or light blue shirt is recommended as well. You should also consider wearing a T-shirt under your dress shirt especially if the dress shirt is thin. Select a shirt with a comfortable collar. You do not want to be tugging at the neck of your shirt during an interview. Girls should wear a business attire such as a dress or pant suit. The suit should be a dark solid color, although this is not absolutely necessary. Avoid flashy or revealing clothes. Skirts should not be too short or too long. An inch or two on either side of the knee is acceptable. Be cautious of the skirt appearing too short when you are sitting. Make sure no undergarments can be seen in any way. Avoid clothes that easily wrinkle as you may be in them for a long period of time. Avoid elaborate jewelry. You want the interviewer to focus on your answers, not on your jewelry. A small purse with a shoulder strap is acceptable. Make sure the color of the purse matches your shoes. • Ask questions Prepare good questions to ask at the end of the interview. Asking a question such as "When can I expect to hear something?" is appropriate. • Research Do as much research about the company, scholarship, organization, etc. as possible prior to the interview. If you can find out who is going to be interviewing you, learn as much as you can about him/her and his/her position/title/responsibilities as well. Common questions might include the following: 1. Tell me a little about yourself. 2. What are your strengths? 3. What is your biggest weakness? (Turn this into a positive. Answer with something like "I think I can accomplish anything; therefore, I tend to overwork because I will finish anything I start regardless of the difficulty.") 4. What accomplishment are you most proud of and why? 5. Who do you most admire and why? 6. Identify a conflict you have encountered and how you handled that conflict? 7. Identify a situation where you have taken a leadership role and how you handled that position? 8. Do you view yourself as a leader or a follower? Why? 9. Why should we select you? 10. What do you not like about yourself? 11. Who is your role model? 12. What type of decisions do you struggle making? 13. Describe yourself 20 years from now? 14. What is your anticipated major? Why? 15. What could you have done better in high school? 16. How would you respond if I said that your interview was not very good? 17. Identify a time that you had to take a chance and how you handled the situation. 18. Tell me why we should select you. 19. Name one thing that best describes you. 20. Name one cartoon character that best describes you and tell why. 21. Name one adjective that best describes you. 22. Do others try to be like you? Why? 23. Have you ever "stretched the truth" in an interview or on a resume?

Should you include all community service and leadership on your application? When listing something on a scholarship application or resume, typically you will list the organization with which you did the project, your title, and your roles and responsibilities. Your project description is where your application will be sorted as a winner or loser. Most students don't even include a description. If they do include a description, it is usally basic and doesn't give the reader the necessary information to get the application in the special pile. Here are the five keys to writing a winning scholarship or resume description. 1. Always start with a word ending in ed. 2. Include numbers. 3. Do your projects in teams. 4. Include money. 5. Put what you did last in the description. I’d love to connect with you and keep you posted on upcoming episodes and resources. For a free downloadable pdf What Scholarship Committees Look for and How to Win Them, go to scholarships.chadcargill.com (http://scholarships.chadcargill.com), and get your guide now. For a free downloadable pdf of Key Things You Must Know on Test Day, go to testday.chadcargill.com (testday.chadcargill.com), and get your guide now. If you enjoyed the podcast, please leave a review on your podcast app. Leave a shout out for your high school, and I may read it on a future podcast. If you have questions, leave a comment here or on the Chad Cargill Workshops Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/Chad-Cargill-Workshops-22077611182/?ref=bookmarks) page. To view the workshop calendar, go to calendar.chadcargill.com (http://calendar.chadcargill.com). You can also order the prep book Chad Cargill's ACT and sign up for speed reading at chadcargill.com. If you are interested in hosting a workshop at your high school, call our office at (405) 454-3233 or email penny@chadcargill.com. chadcargill.com (http://www.chadcargill.com) Twitter: @ChadCargill Thanks for listening to the podcast!

Two General Types of Scholarships: 1. Fee Waivers 2. Cash Awards Restrictions: 1. Where Used 2. How They are Used 3. When They are Used Specific Types of Scholarships: 1. Major 2. Situations Key Steps: 1. They Must Know Who You Are 2. Do Something Different Than Your Peers 3. Word It in a Way It will be Read Seperate Scholarships in Two Categories: 1. Require Writing Portion/Essay 2. No Writing Portion/Essay Sort Scholarships By: 1. Due Date 2. Priority/Likelihood of Winning/Value Then clock in and start your job. This will be the best $/hr job you will likely ever have. Show me the money! Join the free parent's Q&A May 8th at 2pm CST. Click here and save your spot! (https://www.crowdcast.io/e/parents-qa-with-chad) I’d love to connect with you and keep you posted on upcoming episodes and resources. For a free downloadable pdf What Scholarship Committees Look for and How to Win Them, go to scholarships.chadcargill.com (http://scholarships.chadcargill.com), and get your guide now. For a free downloadable pdf of Key Things You Must Know on Test Day, go to testday.chadcargill.com (testday.chadcargill.com), and get your guide now. If you enjoyed the podcast, please leave a review on your podcast app. Leave a shout out for your high school, and I may read it on a future podcast. If you have questions, leave a comment here or on the Chad Cargill Workshops Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/Chad-Cargill-Workshops-22077611182/?ref=bookmarks) page. To view the workshop calendar, go to calendar.chadcargill.com (http://calendar.chadcargill.com). You can also order the prep book Chad Cargill's ACT and sign up for speed reading at chadcargill.com. If you are interested in hosting a workshop at your high school, call our office at (405) 454-3233 or email penny@chadcargill.com. chadcargill.com (http://www.chadcargill.com) Twitter: @ChadCargill Thanks for listening to the podcast!

Dr. Jeanie Webb is President of Rose State College in Midwest City, Oklahoma. She is a product of the community college system. There are many benefits to attending a junioir college. Some key advantages include: Cost Size Proximity Involvement Non-traditional Students Specialty Programs and Cooperative Programs with Local Businesses Many times students don't even consider their local community college because they believe they are settling for something less, but junior college shouldn't be considered settling. Through partnerships with larger universities, classes transfer and degree plans smoothly transition to the next college. Many times, the cost of a community college will be 25% that of a major university. By attending your first two years at a community college, students often avoid $50,000 or more in unnessary debt. When you graduate from your university with your 4-year degree, nobody will be concerned your first two years were at a community college. I argue it will be applauded because it shows where you started and that you worked to get to the university your last two years. To learn more about your local community college, check with your high school counselor or do an internet search for community colleges in your area. To learn more about Rose State College, go to Rose.edu (https://www.rose.edu). Dr. Webb"s Bio (https://www.rose.edu/staff/president/webb-jeanie/) Free Webinar Q&A for Parents. Click here (https://www.crowdcast.io/e/parents-qa-act-test-prep) to register and save your spot. I’d love to connect with you and keep you posted on upcoming episodes and resources. For a free downloadable pdf What Scholarship Committees Look for and How to Win Them, go to scholarships.chadcargill.com (http://scholarships.chadcargill.com), and get your guide now. For a free downloadable pdf of Key Things You Must Know on Test Day, go to testday.chadcargill.com (testday.chadcargill.com), and get your guide now. If you enjoyed the podcast, please leave a review on your podcast app. Leave a shout out for your high school, and I may read it on a future podcast. If you have questions, leave a comment here or on the Chad Cargill Workshops Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/Chad-Cargill-Workshops-22077611182/?ref=bookmarks) page. To view the workshop calendar, go to calendar.chadcargill.com (http://calendar.chadcargill.com). You can also order the prep book Chad Cargill's ACT and sign up for speed reading at chadcargill.com. If you are interested in hosting a workshop at your high school, call our office at (405) 454-3233 or email penny@chadcargill.com. chadcargill.com (http://www.chadcargill.com) Twitter: @ChadCargill Thanks for listening to the podcast! Special Guest: Dr. Jeanie Webb.

Special Guest Thomas Umstaddt Jr. Novel Marketing Podcast (https://www.authormedia.com/novel-marketing/) Christian Publishing Show (https://www.christianpublishingshow.com) Author Media (https://www.authormedia.com) It's easier now more than ever to publish a book. Indie is self-publishing where you pay for everything upfront. You design, print, market, and sell your book. Traditional is signing a contract with a publishing company who takes control and the financial risk of your book. The publishing company will pay for editing, layout, cover, printing, marketing and selling the book. You will market and sell your book along with the publishing company. Writing short stories is a great way to develop your writing. Key Writing Craft Concepts: Show Don't Tell Tight Writing Where can you start learning from Thomas? Novel Marketing Podcast (https://www.authormedia.com/novel-marketing/) Christian Publishing Show (https://www.christianpublishingshow.com) Author Media (https://www.authormedia.com) What do we both want to read? Peter DeHaan's 52 Churches. Click here (https://www.peterdehaan.com/books/52-churches/) to learn more about Peter's work or to order his book. I’d love to connect with you and keep you posted on upcoming episodes and resources. For a free downloadable pdf What Scholarship Committees Look for and How to Win Them, go to scholarships.chadcargill.com (http://scholarships.chadcargill.com), and get your guide now. For a free downloadable pdf of Key Things You Must Know on Test Day, go to testday.chadcargill.com (testday.chadcargill.com), and get your guide now. If you enjoyed the podcast, please leave a review on your podcast app. Leave a shout out for your high school, and I may read it on a future podcast. If you have questions, leave a comment here or on the Chad Cargill Workshops Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/Chad-Cargill-Workshops-22077611182/?ref=bookmarks) page. To view the workshop calendar, go to calendar.chadcargill.com (http://calendar.chadcargill.com). You can also order the prep book Chad Cargill's ACT and sign up for speed reading at chadcargill.com. If you are interested in hosting a workshop at your high school, call our office at (405) 454-3233 or email penny@chadcargill.com. chadcargill.com (http://www.chadcargill.com) Twitter: @ChadCargill Thanks for listening to the podcast!

One of the downfalls of being an inexperienced ACT test taker is you may not know how much time you have left. The tests are very long and difficult to finish. As mentioned earlier, you should always answer every question. If you run out of time without every question answered, your score will not be as high as it could be. Time seems to pass very quickly during a difficult section of the test. Be aware of the time but not terrified of it. Using a wall clock in the testing center may not be the best method. I found that trying to keep time on my watch or a simple wall clock often confused me, and concentrating solely on the test often caused me to forget when the test started and when it was supposed to end. In order to prevent this unnecessary confusion, I created my own method of time keeping. I wore a simple three-handed (hour, minute, and second) watch. Before a section began, I let the second hand on my watch rotate until it pointed to the twelve. Then I stopped the second hand from moving by pulling out the crown. Next, I adjusted the other hands so that the clock read exactly noon. Then I backed the time from noon for the amount of time allotted for the section. For example on the English test, which lasts 45 minutes, I moved the clock to read 11:15. When the test administrator said, "Go," I started the clock. I knew at all times during the test that when my watch read straight up noon, the test was over. No questions. No confusion. This method may seem somewhat ridiculous, but if you want to reduce confusion and improve your score, master a time keeping method. A digital watch can also be used if you want to purchase one, but it can not make noise or communicate such as an Apple watch. Finally, when the test administrators announce there are five minutes remaining in each section, you should ignore them. First of all, you already know the time because you are keeping time on your watch. The other reason is five minutes is a lot of time. For example, the science test is six passages designed to be of approximately equal length and difficulty. The science test as a whole is 35 minutes long. Thirty-five minutes divided by six equal passages is five minutes and 50 seconds. At the five minute call if you think your test is over and you panic, you are greatly reducing your score. Many students start guessing when the test administrator calls five minutes. If you do that, you are going to guess on approximately 24 questions total in English, math, reading, and science. If the guessing odds play out, you will get about 6 of the 24 correct. Consider the following: if you score a 19, you are getting about half the questions right. If you do this while guessing when they call five minutes, you got 6 out of 24 rather than 12 out of 24. That is a difference of 6 questions spread over the four sections of the ACT. Did you know that a difference of 6 questions spread over the four sections of the ACT is over a one composite score increase? If you are guessing at 5 minutes and scoring a 19, try the method described above, and your composite ACT score should increase to at least a 20 doing this alone! I’d love to connect with you and keep you posted on upcoming episodes and resources. For a free downloadable pdf What Scholarship Committees Look for and How to Win Them, go to scholarships.chadcargill.com (http://scholarships.chadcargill.com), and get your guide now. For a free downloadable pdf of Key Things You Must Know on Test Day, go to testday.chadcargill.com (testday.chadcargill.com), and get your guide now. If you enjoyed the podcast, please leave a review on your podcast app. Leave a shout out for your high school, and I may read it on a future podcast. If you have questions, leave a comment here or on the Chad Cargill Workshops Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/Chad-Cargill-Workshops-22077611182/?ref=bookmarks) page. To view the workshop calendar, go to calendar.chadcargill.com (http://calendar.chadcargill.com). You can also order the prep book Chad Cargill's ACT and sign up for speed reading at chadcargill.com. If you are interested in hosting a workshop at your high school, call our office at (405) 454-3233 or email penny@chadcargill.com. chadcargill.com (http://www.chadcargill.com) Twitter: @ChadCargill Thanks for listening to the podcast!