As families navigate an increasingly crowded market of SAT and ACT preparation options, Michael Romano, founder of Mr. Test Prep, offers a practical framework for evaluating tutors. With over 4,000 students coached since 1997, Romano emphasizes that the best way to assess a tutor is to observe how they work with a student, not just listen to a sales pitch. His seven questions aim to help parents make informed decisions and avoid common pitfalls.
The first question, according to Romano, is who will actually teach the student and what is that person's experience. At many companies, the person on the sales call may not be the one delivering instruction. Romano personally coaches every student, bringing nearly three decades of experience. Because the program is online, students nationwide can work directly with him.
Second, Romano advises parents to ask whether a diagnostic comes before the preparation plan. A meaningful diagnostic should reveal how a student works through the test—accuracy, pacing, question patterns, decision-making—not just a score. Mr. Test Prep begins with a free two-hour trial session built around diagnostic work, rather than placing students immediately into a predetermined curriculum.
Third, deciding between the SAT and ACT should not rely solely on comparing scores. Romano argues that the more important consideration is what produced those scores and which weaknesses are most responsive to instruction. A student may score higher on one test initially but face pacing limitations that are hard to overcome, while the other test's lower score may stem from issues more amenable to improvement. The recommendation should come from watching the student work under timed conditions.
Fourth, families should understand their financial commitment and the terms of any score guarantee. Romano notes that guarantees often come with conditions such as extensive homework. Mr. Test Prep takes a different approach: families pay one session at a time, and before preparation begins, Romano establishes a cap on the number of paid sessions based on the student's starting point, desired outcome, and testing plan. If the student achieves the target score before reaching the cap, the family never pays for remaining sessions. If the student reaches the cap and still needs additional coaching, extra sessions continue at no additional charge—without required test-prep homework.
Fifth, Romano addresses what happens between sessions. He maintains a no-homework philosophy. Students may practice independently, but no test-prep homework is required. Instead, preparation is concentrated inside coaching sessions, where Romano can observe how students approach questions, manage time, and make decisions in real time.
Sixth, preparing for performance under pressure is crucial. Knowing the material is only part of test-day success. Mr. Test Prep approaches this from two angles: the Mr. Test Prep Method™ provides tactics and frameworks for navigating the test, while A-Game Access™ addresses the mental state students bring to execution. Together, they help students access and use what they know when it matters most.
Seventh, Romano asks whether students can try the program before committing. Mr. Test Prep offers a free two-hour trial session nationwide. The student works through diagnostic material while Romano observes and offers feedback. A follow-up Zoom meeting reviews findings, discusses SAT versus ACT, considers testing dates and preparation frequency, sets target scores, and outlines a recommended plan. A written proposal follows by email.
For families facing a sea of options, Romano's questions provide a roadmap to evaluate not just promises, but the actual experience and expertise that will shape a student's test-day performance. As Romano says, “Parents shouldn't have to make a large commitment just to find out whether the relationship works.”
