Long-Term Exam Prep Planner

Strategic preparation for major exams months in advance. AP, SAT, ACT, or any high-stakes test.

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Long-Term Exam Prep Planner

Months of steady prep. One major exam. Complete readiness.

Exam Name
Exam Date
Weeks Until Exam
Target Score
Preparation Phases
Phase 1: Foundation (Weeks 1-4) _______ to _______
Phase Goal
Build foundational knowledge. Identify all topics. Gather resources.
Take a diagnostic test to find baseline score
Identify all topics / sections covered on exam
Gather all study materials and resources
Create study schedule for entire prep period
Phase 2: Content Mastery (Weeks 5-10) _______ to _______
Phase Goal
Deep study of all content areas. Master concepts before practice.
Work through content by topic systematically
Take notes and create summaries for each topic
Complete practice problems per topic
Review weak areas immediately
Phase 3: Practice & Review (Weeks 11-14) _______ to _______
Phase Goal
Full practice tests. Timing practice. Strategy refinement.
Complete 4-6 full practice tests under timed conditions
Review every wrong answer thoroughly
Identify patterns in mistakes
Develop test-taking strategies
Phase 4: Final Push (Weeks 15-16) _______ to _______
Phase Goal
Light review. Build confidence. Rest before exam day.
Review notes and summaries (no new content)
Do light practice on weak areas only
Prepare exam day logistics
Rest well the last few days
Monthly Overview
Month 1: _______
Month 2: _______
Month 3: _______
Month 4: _______
Topic Mastery Tracker
Topic / Section
Initial
Studied
Practiced
Mastered
Study Resources
Books / Guides
Online Resources
Practice Tests
Milestone Checkpoints
Diagnostic Done
50% Topics
100% Topics
3 Full Tests
Target Score
Exam Ready
Progress Reflection
What's working well in my prep?
What needs adjustment?

How to Use This Planner

  1. Start 3-4 months before your exam date for best results.
  2. Take a diagnostic test first to establish your baseline.
  3. Divide your prep time into the four phases outlined.
  4. List all topics and track your mastery progression.
  5. Gather resources before deep study begins.
  6. Check off milestones to stay motivated over the long haul.
  7. Adjust your plan as you learn what works for you.
  8. Trust the process—consistent effort beats cramming.