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[quote=Anonymous]
Some engineering programs require Math II as well as Biology and either Chem or Physics.

My kid took one of these after freshman year because he was in an advanced class and it prepared him for it.  Key is take it right after the class ends when the knowledge is fresh.  As close to the final exam as possilble.  Not a big deal to do one at a time (versus multiple ones in a sitting).  One allows focus.

In our experience, the other key is practice tests.  Do some due diligence about the different guidebooks out there and how good they are -- both the substantive part and the practice tests -- there are threads on this on college confidential.  The practice tests differ quite a bit -- some are very difficult, others too easy.  It varies from subject to subject.  Also, the range of scores varies quite a bit -- a 750 on one may mean a certain percentile on Math II but not on Physics.  The College Board book, which has a sample of each actual subject test, will give you that info.  That book also contains some guidance on what is covered by each test.

Some test prep places have a large collection of old practice tests either real ones or produced by companies like Barrons.  If they are good, they will also know how the different private practice tests stack up.

Two kids, each followed a different routine.  Kid 1 went through a test prep book and did the practice tests. Outcome fine but not excellent.

Kid #2 did mjch more with truly excellent results, and great improvement off of original scores.  That method:

1.  Research which is the best book for the test and buy it.  If Barrons has the best substantive section (explaining the concepts) and someone else has the best practice tests, buy both.
2.  Do the diagnostic test in the front of the book(s).  Score it (them) and figure out the weak areas.  Study those areas.
3.  Review all the areas covered on the test as described in the books.  If there is an area that was not covered in your class on that subject, roll up your sleeves and learn it well.
4.  Take many, many practice tests.  Write out the answers missed and keep track of them.  Study those concepts again. Taking many practices will allow the student to be more comfortable with the pacing and format of the questions.
5.  Get a good night's sleep and eat a good breakfast the day of the test.

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