Ease of Use:  

The first thing you see when you open the packaging of WordSmart is an unlabeled disc with a big smiley face on it. When you put it in, a vocabulary assessment quiz automatically installs. After you complete the assessment, the program recommends which of the four discs, you should use to begin your studies. Most discs included with this software package will run with Vista, with the exception of the Math disc.

Feature Set:  

WordSmart offers games, multiple choice reviews, flashcards, column matching and sentence completion exercises in English, reading, writing and vocabulary.

This program teaches definitions of words, but also plays the sound of real human voices that describe the word, discuss common misuses, and relate usage and historical information. You can turn the audio discussions off or on, but for those that learn effectively auditorily, this is a useful feature.

WordSmart SAT Prep offers five interactive learning modes with progress reports to accommodate different learning styles. The games also offer an alternative method of information delivery and increases the entertainment level, which can keep you interested and on task for longer periods.

The SAT Math CD briefly covers all of the math basics that are included in the SAT and ACT. Although this CD is helpful, math is not the focus of this program, and the math CD seems almost like an afterthought compared to the extensive vocabulary lessons.

One nice extra, that came with this version of WordSmart SAT Prep, is a free CD hard case that keeps the five discs organized, portable and protected.

Download Process:  

While downloading WordSmart SAT Prep, we did not encounter any problems. What was nice about installing this software is that all you have to do is install the first disc; the rest of them work automatically.

Help/Support:  

The help and support offered by WordSmart SAT Prep is fast; we sent an email to customer/technical support regarding the product and the next day, they contacted us by phone. We have found this kind of quick response rare, and we were pleased to give WordSmart SAT Prep a perfect score.

Content Rating:  

Although WordSmart offers extensive vocabulary help, it lacks in all other areas. It includes one math disc but does not include extra help with sub-sections like science, history or government. It also does not offer information on college admissions, tuition and fee schedules, or financial aid.

Effectiveness:  

WordSmart SAT Prep guarantees the effectiveness of their software, and after the recommended 20 hours of study, we have no doubt that your SAT or ACT score will improve. The program could also be useful if you need to increase your vocabulary for the GRE or for your current employment.

WordSmart SAT Prep offers exceptional definitions, usage and annunciation study and provides quick customer support. But if you need math assistance or help in other areas, we recommend our #1 or #2 choice.