The Staffs Prep Method: A Smarter Way to Master the SAT and ACT

Preparing for the SAT or ACT can feel overwhelming. With so many books, practice tests, and online courses available, students often don’t know where to start — or how to use their time efficiently.

That’s where The Staffs Prep Method comes in. Developed over 12 years by Christian Villaran, a Princeton graduate and Wharton MBA, this proven, step-by-step system helps students improve their scores in the most efficient and cost-effective way possible.

Why The Staffs Prep Method Works

Christian founded Staffs Prep in 2013 with a mission to make top-quality test prep accessible to every student — no matter their background. His experience working with the NYC Department of Education showed him how different communities had drastically different opportunities. Staffs Prep was built to close that gap.

Instead of throwing students into endless practice tests, The Staffs Prep Method takes a strategic approach to exam prep. It focuses on understanding, targeted practice, and individualized mastery.

The 3 Steps of the Staffs Prep Method

Step 1: Understand the Test

Before taking a single practice test, students learn how the SAT or ACT is designed — and how to use that knowledge to their advantage. Staffs Prep’s SAT/ACT Crash Courses walk students through:

• The structure of the exam

• The types of questions they’ll face

• The strategies that work best for each section

This foundational step ensures that every minute of practice afterward is productive.

Step 2: Practice the Right Way

Once students understand the test, it’s time to practice — but not just by taking full tests over and over.

With SAT/ACT Practice Software™, students get personalized practice that adapts to their level. This avoids wasting time on questions they already know how to solve, and focuses instead on areas where improvement will make the biggest difference.

Step 3: Master Your Weaknesses

Finally, students work on the few remaining areas holding back their score.

Through 1:1 SAT/ACT Tutoring, they get expert feedback on their test-taking habits and learn strategies to break through performance plateaus. This individualized attention can often lead to the biggest final score jumps.

Not Sure Where to Begin?

If you’re wondering how to get started, Staffs Prep even offers a “How to Prepare” Quiz to help you figure out the right plan based on your grade level and goals.

Students love Staffs Prep because it’s affordable, accessible, and effective — no overpriced tutoring packages or wasted hours on unnecessary practice. The method focuses on exactly what each student needs, helping them raise their scores quickly and cost-efficiently while respecting their busy schedules.

Final Thoughts

The Staffs Prep Method isn’t about doing more — it’s about doing what works. By understanding the test, practicing strategically, and focusing on your unique weaknesses, students save time, reduce stress, and see real score improvements.

At Thriving Scholars, we believe in recommending what truly helps students succeed — and Staffs Prep consistently delivers. Whether you’re just starting SAT/ACT prep or looking for that final score boost, this step-by-step method gives you a clear, proven path to reach your college dreams.