Choosing the best Praxis study guide depends on a number of factors. The first is whether you need more help with test-taking skills or the material the test will cover. This designation is important as some of the tests include timed writing portions. Considering your career path in teaching is another necessity when choosing a study guide. Finally, shopping around and reading online reviews written by other test takers gives you a better view of each study guide's effectiveness.
Twenty-four U.S. states use the Praxis series of examinations for teacher and administrator accreditation. In response, many companies, including the tests' creator, the Educational Testing Service, have developed study guides for every test. The abundance of choices can be confusing for many aspiring teachers new to the Praxis.
Before buying a study guide, you need to consider if you need more help with the test material or test-taking skills. The Praxis II Principles of Learning and Teaching tests (PLTs) and some Praxis II subject tests include written portions. Not being able to manage your time can lead to a lower score even if you are confident about the material. If you have trouble with time management, buying a Praxis study guide with more practice tests will give you more time to develop these skills. If you need help with the material, buying a content-heavy study guide is likely the best route.
Considering your career path and prospects for employment, though not the first thing to come to mind when selecting a Praxis study guide, is important nonetheless. For example, if you are testing in 7-12th grade biology, you might consider buying a study guide that covers all the sciences taught at the secondary level. Becoming certified in extra subjects gives you more chances to find employment. The purchase of a single study guide can help prepare you for up to five Praxis tests.
Choosing the best Praxis study guide requires you to shop around, not for the study guide at the lowest price, but for the study guide that will help raise your score the most. Many online retailers include a section for comments and ratings, and reading the reviews of others can help you decide if a certain study guide provides the most assistance. Also, as all study guides are not made equal, reading reviews will allow you to disregard the lowest reviewed study guides.