If You Arent Managing Your Career, Who Is - Introvert Whisperer

Introvert Whisperer / If You Aren’t Managing Your Career, Who Is - Introvert Whisperer If You Aren’t Managing Your Career, Who Is? OK, I get it. Managing your career isn’t the sexiest thing to talk about, but someone has to. You spend more time working than anything else other than sleeping. Isn’t it worth it to spend that time feeling good about what you’re doing? And where you’re headed? (Click here to tweet this thought.) You can go back to thinking about your kids, your friends or the new game on your computer in just a second. Your career will “happen” with or without your attention. It won’t stand still, nor will you. Due to a variety of circumstances, such as change in business, change in boss and how well you perform your job, your career will never move in a straight line. Despite the weaving it will do, you can largely control its trajectory but it does require your attention. It’s unfortunate that too many people simply assume if they perform well, their career will take care of itself. That is a huge assumption.So is thinking management has your back. That’s relinquishing a lot of control and decision-making to either others or fate. Would you turn over your bank account to someone else’s management? Or to no one? Would you turn over your car, your child, and your future to… no one? Whatever your reasons for the lack of attention to your career, there are some pain-free things you can do to steer it in the right direction. Don’t worry, this won’t take long and it won’t suck up a bunch of your time. Pain-Free Career Management: 1. Figure out where you want to be in 6 months or the next 2 years. Sounds simple, but most people don’t even do that. a. It’s pain-free because all you have to do is think. Sure, you might want to think by asking people questions and having discussions. You do that every day. 2. Pay attention to office politics, as that will have a bearing on your career. a. Again, pain-free since all you have to do is pay attention to who’s influencing whom, who’s getting ahead or behind, and why. 3. Pay attention to what’s going on with the business conditions. a. What can I say? Paying attention is a very underrated activity, but when you do, you’ll know when big decisions are taking place that might impact you. 4. Talk to influencers and decision-makers about what you need and want. a. These people will have a huge impact on your career, but if you don’t let them know what you want for your career, they’ll assume everything must be okay. b. Simply developing relationships with these people will create supporters when your career needs them the most. 5. Take actions that matter; don’t just take action that won’t do you any good. a. Okay, this requires that you drop your game station, but action is control and isn’t that really what you want? b. This doesn’t require you to do something every day or all the time it’s taking the right actions when it will make the biggest difference. Before I let you return to the comfort of your computer surfing, let me end by saying you have more control over your career than you may realize. It’s yours to shape, and you will like the result when you start managing your career. Go to top Do you know what your next career step is?   Many people don’t. I want to help you accelerate your career by connecting you with your Free Instant Access to my eBook on how to construct your Career SMART Goals â€" that will help you put together your actions and keep you accountable.   Get your copy now and start your action plan today: CLICK HERE Brought to you by Dorothy Tannahill-Moran â€" dedicated to unleash your professional potential. How can you better manage your career? Share your thoughts in the comments! Image: Photobucket

Where to Find Your Ideal Voice Coach

Where to Find Your Ideal Voice Coach A Guide to Finding the Best Vocal Coaches ChaptersLearn to Sing by Finding a Teacher through Local AdvertisementsFind a Singing Teacher through a Music SchoolStudy Voice at a ConservatoireFind Singing Lessons OnlineIf you dream of performing, but your singing voice needs a little work, taking private singing lessons could be the perfect route for you!People sing for many reasons including or their own enjoyment and as a career. However, the benefits of learning to sing go further than you may imagine.For instance, did you know that singing can help your brain to adapt to learning foreign languages?As the French minister for education pointed out in 2007:Singing promotes the acquisition of the musicality of language. It helps people to identify the sound components of that language. Syllables and rhymes highlight the internal rhythm of a phrase and help children to reproduce the melodic line of a sentence.There are plenty of voice coaches to help you develop your skills and become an accomplished singer regardless of your lev el and personal goals in singing.But where exactly do you look for a singing teacher? Let’s have a look! TraceySinging Teacher 4.92 (13) £25/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors PortiaSinging Teacher 4.91 (11) £35/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors NicolaSinging Teacher 5.00 (11) £40/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors JazzSinging Teacher 5.00 (6) £40/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors PerrineSinging Teacher 5.00 (3) £50/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors TiemSinging Teacher £40/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors TomSinging Teacher £25/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors MiriamSinging Teacher 5.00 (4) £35/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutorsLearn to Sing by Finding a Teacher through Local AdvertisementsThe traditional method of finding music teachers is looking in your local press and on notice boards around your community who are advertising their services.Whether it’s at your community centre, in your local newspaper, or on your supermarket advertisement board, there are bound to be several in-home music teachers looking for pupils by posting adverts in the local area.You’ll find that the larger the organisation, the more choice you will have, as the number of advertisements will be greater.Don't flick past the advertisements in the paper! ¦ source: Pixabay - DieElchinFor this reason, it is wise to consult larger shops and busy notice boards first. This will give you a good overview of your options.Before you begin your search for a singing teacher, it is important that you think about your objectives.These may include:Improving your dictionExpanding your repertoireImproving your singing technique  and tone qualityUsing your voice to its full potentialImproving breathing techniquesUsing your diaphragm to control your vibratoIn order to find a teacher with the relevant expertise to suit your needs, looking in music shops can be a big help. In addition to the advertisements you will find, you’ll also be able to consult the music specialists who work in the shop and will be able to advise you on local singing teachers.Another good option for those looking for music teachers is word of mouth.Simply asking around is a good way to not only find music teachers but to find out what other clients think of their teaching before you contact them for yourself.In the digital age, there is also the option of looking online for local services on websites such as Gumtree, where it is easy to find advertisements within a certain radius.Whether you’re an aspiring opera singer, musical theatre performer or you’d just like to improve your singing voice, your singing teacher will be able to adapt their lessons to your needs and ensure that you make the best possible progress.Find a Singing Teacher through a Music SchoolIf your concerns lie with teaching quality and the teacher’s level of expertise, approaching a dedicated music institution is the route for you.Holding the correct postur e, being able to follow a score, and learning about musical styles throughout history, the singing coaches that teach in music colleges have plenty of qualifications to match their experience.Whether it’s during group or private lessons, the objective of the singing teacher is to identify each student’s vocal type and assign them relevant pieces to develop their personal singing style.Adapting sessions on an individual basis helps instil confidence in performers and helps them to get to know the timbre of their own voice.As professionals, singing teachers can generally adapt their lessons to any level, whether their student is a complete beginner or preparing for auditions.Teachers can also tailor their lesson according to their students’ personal goals. For instance, if a student needs some training in musical theory to be able to compose their own pieces, singing teachers can focus on this. Likewise, if a student has an interest in performing, singing teachers can help them focus on their musical expression and stage presence.Whatever the type of instruction the pupil receives, it will help them develop as a musician in their own right and may even help them to make decisions about a potential career in music.Here are some examples of music and theatre schools where you can find singing teachers:Stagecoach Theatre Arts (Nationwide)Singing and Breathing (South West)Pineapple Performing Arts School (London)Music schools can be part-time organisations (aimed at children looking for extra-curricular activities), or private performing arts institutions.Joining a music school is the perfect way to enjoy singing as an amateur performer ¦ source: Pixabay - intmurrYour options will vary depending on your geographical location as well as the type of tuition you are looking for, but with enough research into the availability of singing lessons, anyone can reap the benefits of learning to sing!At music and performing arts schools, pupils can choose between two ty pes of coaching: group or private singing lessons online.Group Sessions: These are guaranteed to be the more affordable option, and allow individual students to compare their own voices with those around them. This can help them to learn more about their personal singing style and situate themselves within the group. In singing workshops, budding singers are joined by those of a similar level in order to ensure that every student benefits from the session in equal measure.Private Sessions: One to one lessons are costlier for obvious reasons. For example, teachers are able to personalise their teaching for individual students, making for a more efficient use of time.Your route to finding a singing teacher at a theatre arts or music school will differ depending on your goals and your budget. Rest assured that there is plenty of advice available to ensure that you choose the right singing teacher for you.And don't forget that regardless of where you find your singing teacher, you will be expected to practice your vocal techniques in between lessons.Study Voice at a ConservatoireWhether you’re performing alone or in a choir, conservatoires offer degree-level training for all voices.So, what exactly is the difference between those who teach at music schools and those who teach at conservatoires?While both may be professionals, the difference is their level of expertise.Being accepted for musical training at a UK conservatoire is notoriously difficult, as these institutions will only accept the most dedicated musicians.Applying for conservatoire training are usually only available to those who are about to leave compulsory education at the age of 18, since such establishments are viewed as a type of specialist university.Conservatoires offer bachelor’s and master’s degrees as well as PhD qualifications in a range of subjects. For instance, should you wish to pursue singing, you may take a course in Vocal Studies or Traditional Music.The professional training d elivered at conservatoires relies heavily on music theory ¦ source: Pixabay - jh146There are 11 conservatoires in the United Kingdom, and each of them offers something slightly different when it comes to their teaching of music and singing.For example, the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland is the only conservatoire to offer each one of their students a private 90-minute-long coaching session every week.Just like at university, students are able to focus on their personal interests. So if you’re keen on opera singing or musical theatre performance, you’ll be able to pursue a course which suits this.You will also learn about performing as a part of an ensemble, where you will either be accompanied by an orchestra, a pianist or other singers.Find Singing Lessons OnlineFor amateur singers, whether your preferred style is more classical or modern, online advertisements may hold the key to your singing success!In just a few clicks, budding singers can find a vocal coach who can help th em broaden their knowledge and fulfil their musical potential.Searching for singing teachers online means students can access more information than if they consult their local press alone. The internet gives teachers the means to share more about their personal experience and qualifications without having to first be contacted by students.On platforms such as Superprof, students can also look at reviews from each teacher’s clients, which can help them to reach a final decision on the suitability of each teacher.Making the right choice depends on several factors:The teacher’s level of qualificationThe teacher’s professional and teaching experienceHourly rates for lessonsLesson formatThe teacher’s specialisms (opera, gospel, contemporary, etc.)As a teacher, voice coaches are able to adapt their teaching to the specific needs and goals of each student, meaning that whatever your plan when it comes to your life as a musician, they will be able to help you along the way.Find out about how much you can expect to pay for voice training.Find a tutor for singing lessons on Superprof:Singing lessons LondonSinging lessons ManchesterSinging lessons online

How to Overcome Dysfunctional Behaviors and Stay on Track in Your Career - Introvert Whisperer

Introvert Whisperer / How to Overcome Dysfunctional Behaviors and Stay on Track in Your Career - Introvert Whisperer How to Overcome Dysfunctional Behaviors and Stay on Track in Your Career No, life often isn’t fair, but you know what? You have to muster your strength and courage and deal with all the challenges, because no one else will do that on your behalf. Overcoming dysfunctional behaviors to stay on track in your career is beyond essential, so check out our tips and guidelines and learn how to make it happen with success. Just keep on reading, start taking notes, and enjoy! Which life situations can cause dysfunctional behaviors? Dysfunctional behaviors can be caused by a wide range of life situations, from tough breakups and divorce, losing a loved one, and challenges at work to some internal struggles and conflicts. You’re highly likely to get overwhelmed and thrown off balance when dealing with such situations, which is exactly when you will start behaving much different than usual. For some people, this can last for a few days or weeks, until they find a way to get back on track. On the other hand, for others, dysfunctional behavior can stick for a much longer period (a few months or more), which can negatively affect their careers and everything they’ve been working on for years. Overcoming such behavior is essential, so keep on reading to learn how to make it happen. How to rebound after challenging situations and go on with your life? Rebounding after challenging life situations and overcoming dysfunctional behaviors can be a long and exhausting process, but you must know that it’s crucial for you to go on with your life and do what’s best for yourself. Even though it can be hard, it certainly isn’t impossible, so check out our tips and save the career you’ve worked so hard for. Give yourself time to recover Healing is a process, which means that it’ll take a lot of time for you to go through it properly. This basically means that you can’t expect your worries, pain, and discomfort to disappear after a single conversation with your loved ones or after a just couple of days. Giving yourself time to recover is crucial here, so don’t rush yourself and take as much time as you need. Even though pushing yourself to do something you aren’t comfortable with can be beneficial sometimes, it’s highly likely that it’ll actually slow down your recovery, not allowing you to overcome those dysfunctional behaviors. So, take one step at a time, don’t rush yourself and don’t let others rush you, and you’ll do a great job. Seek professional help Seeking professional help is always a good idea â€" especially if you’ve been struggling to overcome those challenging life situations for quite some time, so don’t wait any longer and ask for help. Getting back to your business after a divorce, loss of a loved one, or finding out that you suffer from serious disease is always difficult, which is why you should work with a business coach who can help you amplify the results of your business, increase profit, and gain back your time. So, if you’re running your own business and you simply can’t manage to get back on track, this is definitely the best thing you can do. Just give it a try and you’ll see a fantastic improvement. Don’t overanalyze When something bad happens and throws you off balance, overanalyzing is usually the first thing you’ll do, right? Even though worrying about things that have happened, might happen, or will never happen seems completely logical at that point in time, you must know that it is the last thing you should ever do. The same goes for questioning your self-worth, so give yourself time to evaluate the reality of the situation and don’t rush to fix things. Besides that, creating different kinds of scenarios in your mind can bring more harm than good in the long run, so stop overanalyzing, change your perspective a little bit, and you’ll see that everything is possible if you think rationally.

Guitar Prices How Much Are We Talking

Guitar Prices How Much Are We Talking How Much Does a Guitar Cost Then? ChaptersHow Much Does a Classical Guitar Cost?How Much Does an Electric Guitar Cost? How Much Does an Acoustic Guitar Cost?How to Buy an Inexpensive Guitar?What is the Price of Guitar Strings?How to Buy a Second-hand Guitar?How does one acquire a guitar?  Whether you want to play blues, rock, pop, flamenco, jazz, gypsy jazz or a French variety, you will first have to go through the process of purchasing a guitar. However, it’s sometimes difficult to know how much to spend on this string instrument when you’re just beginning to take music lessons. Many elements need to be taken into account when it comes to price. These instruments can be more or less expensive according to their manufacture time, their maker, and also their features. If they have a cutaway, they may be more expensive. If you want a musical instrument that is constructed well, with a solid fretboard, headstock, and back and sides, you're going to be looking at paying more. If you want an axe that combines good pla yability with an attractive body shape, you can't expect to pay nothing.  Guitarists can pay thousands of pounds for a new guitar. Yet, new guitar players shouldn't pay more than three hundred for their first instrument - and that applies to electric guitars, acoustic guitars, and classical guitars alike.The advice of a professional, music teacher or others, will be a great help to  you in making your choice.In the meantime, here’s an idea of what you can find on the market.Getting attention from people  is good, but with a guitar it’s even better. But if you want to seduce your crush with a beautiful Stratocaster worthy of the biggest rock bands, good luck!Or even with another brand: Fender, Ibanez, Gibson, Dreadnought, Gibson Les Paul…When we start music lessons, especially guitar lessons, teachers often recommend starting out with a classical guitar. Don’t worry, this doesn’t prevent you from moving on to something else afterward, like an electric or folk guitar, but th e classical guitar will give you the necessary knowledge to play this instrument.Indeed, the classical guitar neck is easier to use. It will teach you where to ideally position your left hand. In addition, its  nylon strings will be easier to strum  for a beginner than the electric guitar’s steel strings. It will train you in important techniques such as fingerstyle and in your navigation of the fingerboard - essential skills you will need to move on to acoustics or electrics.  Honestly, people that start off playing the nylon string classical guitar make better guitarists in the long run.The neck on the classical guitar is suited for novices.But how much should you pay for a good classical guitar?Classical guitars can cost from $50 to $1500 or more. So how do we make the right choice? Be aware that $50 guitars are more often children's toys than real guitars that will last over time! To invest in your first guitar, you should consider prices around $120. In this price range, you will easily find a guitar that makes you happy without going broke.  Look at models by Cordoba, Yamaha, and even Fender, who all make a very good beginner nylon string guitar.How Much Does an Electric Guitar Cost?After a few months or years of playing the classical guitar, you want to switch to the electric guitar? But how much does an electric guitar cost?Like the classical guitar, different price ranges are available for the electric guitar, whether you buy it online or at the store.Good quality guitars cost around $130. Certainly, you won’t have the same guitar as Jimi Hendrix, but you’ll find one that will do the trick. As you progress, and if your budget allows, you will be able to upgrade and resell your first guitar.But with the electric guitar, also comes the amplifier (or guitar amp).Indeed, we must not forget the cost of accessories that come with an electric guitar. And buying an electric guitar without an amp is useless since the sound would barely be noticeable.The electric guitar requires the purchase of an amp.Several stores offer a package including the guitar and the amp together.It’s entirely possible to find a package deal at a good price (around $150). This can very well do the trick for a beginner guitar player. In addition, the set often includes a guitar case or gig bag (although not a hardshell one), as well as a strap, tuners, and some spare electric guitar strings. The perfect tools to play the guitar.  But if your level is a bit higher and you want to perform onstage, look for a slightly higher priced amplifier, like from the brand Marshall for example.For electric guitars, the reliable budget brands are Yamaha, Epiphone, and ESP Ltd.The electric guitar is not for you?You could find a good compromise between the classical guitar and the electric guitar by buying an acoustic-electric guitar!This is an acoustic guitar equipped with microphones to amplify the sound. A sound that will be closer to the classical guitar than electric since it is part of the acoustic guitar family. Indeed, the sound can resonate alone in the body of the guitar, the sound box.But what is the acoustic guitar used for?This type of guitar is ideal for playing any kind of musical style, unlike the classical guitar which is more for jazz music, gypsy style, or, as the name suggests, classical music. With an acoustic guitar, you can play rock, the French variety, and the blues. It’s enough to delight more than one aficionado.But how much does an acoustic guitar cost? As with other types of guitars, you can easily find starting prices around $130 for an acoustic guitar.However, an acoustic guitar is often an important investment that we want to keep all our life. So it may be wiser to look at guitars between $200 and $600 if your budget allows. These are generally of very good quality and will last for a long time.Some good brands include Seagull, Taylor Guitars, and Martin Guitars.As for accessories, it's up to you to decide whether you want to get an amp or not. Know that if you don’t want to play on stage, the amp could be useless.You can play any type of music with a folk guitar.However, consider buying a guitar case, a tuning fork, a tuner, a metronome and a capo. The last one shortens the neck to change the tone. It’s a tool as useful as the pick to have fun playing guitar!How to Buy an Inexpensive Guitar?Your budget does not meet your guitar desire?You will then have to find an inexpensive guitar  without decreasing the quality. This balance will be found especially in the manufactured quality of the guitar.Indeed, the more high-end the guitar finishes are, the more expensive the guitar will be.For example, you shouldn’t go to a luthier (a guitar maker) if you’re on a budget. Guitars are usually worked with great precision and patience. The prices then correspond to the quality of manufacture.Several other elements can change the price of a guitar - for example, the wood choice (spruce, oak, maple , rosewood, mahogany, ebony...). Some woods are rarer than others. Varnish and the mechanics can also change the price.You can get a guitar that’s less expensive than others by foregoing the higher-end finishing details.Also, take advantage of music stores’ discounts. Whether it's during a sale or not, some sellers sometimes give discounts for certain guitars. Go to the store and ask for advice.Otherwise, you can opt for a second-hand guitar. Online or at the flea market, you can find a good guitar that costs half of the regular price.What is the Price of Guitar Strings?Once you get your guitar, you will have to take good care of it. This includes maintaining the strings. Indeed, you shouldn’t wait until a string breaks to replace it. Be aware that your strings get damaged over time and this can change the tone of your guitar.That’s why it’s recommended to regularly change your string set, not just one of the six strings. Changing only one string could break the harmony of your guitar...It's up to you to decide how often you should change your strings. Some musicians change them before each concert. Others, every six months. It really depends on your personal practice and the care you give to your guitar.However, a few little things can delay the oxidation of the strings. For example, you can wash your hands before playing and wipe the strings after each use. This will extend the life of your strings.But that does not exempt you from changing them. A string set costs around $10 in a music store or online. Check out Strings and Beyond to find the right string set for you. The price of the guitar strings may vary according to the material (steel, nylon or others), but also the treatment of the strings. Some strings may be more resistant to oxidation than others.If you’ve never changed your strings before, ask your guitar teacher for help or watch a tutorial online. You will quickly get the hang of it.You can also ask a seller to do it for around $10. How to Buy a Second-hand Guitar?It is strongly advised to try out an instrument before buying it.Although science has shown the benefit of music for our health, instruments are not yet reimbursed by our insurance. It is, therefore, necessary to look for other solutions to find the guitar of your dreams at a low price.Buying a pre-owned guitar is a great way to lower the price. It’s usually half of the original price.This option should not be overlooked by those with a small budget. And for that, there are several solutions.For example, you can go to flea markets. This is the ideal place to negotiate directly with the seller. Moreover, you can test the guitar then and there; a key point when it comes to buying a guitar.You can also check out pawn shops. They have, for the most part, an area dedicated to musical instruments. And you can be sure that you will find an array of guitars. These places give the opportunity to seek advice from the salesperson who will guide you in your cho ice.You can also use one of the most common means of purchasing an item: the Internet. Many people use sites like craigslist.org to make their purchases. And there you can find tons of guitars.However, how not to get ripped off?First off, check the original price of the guitar to make sure that the used guitar is actually cheaper. Then ask the seller to see the instrument. Make an appointment to go to their home or meet in a public place to test the instrument.Some things must be checked such as the condition of the mechanics, the presence of cracks or shocks, the condition of the bridge and neck, and the condition of the soundbox.And do not hesitate to take your time and ask a friend who is knowledgeable about guitars to accompany you.Take time to think before you buy.To get you started, why not consider taking private lessons.  Searching for guitar lessons London  produces the most results on Superprof but there is a lot more choice if you're willing to learn online.

What is an Average ACT Score

What is an Average ACT Score Whether youve recently taken the ACT or you have an upcoming test date, you are likely asking the question, What is an average ACT score? Knowing the answer to this question can be helpful for a plethora of reasons, including gauging where you fall compared to other students applying to your target schools and establishing your goal score. According to ACT, Inc., the average ACT score in 2017 was a 21 (on a scale of 1-36). What this means is, on average, 50 percent of test-takers scored a 21 on their ACT. What does this mean for you? When understanding the breakdown of an average ACT score, its important to know how the ACT sections are scored, how schools use the ACT, and how to set your personal target score. Heres what youll find in this article: How the ACT is scored How ACT sections are scored What to know about the optional ACT Essay What the additional scores are on your ACT score report How schools use the ACT What this ACT breakdown means for you. Understanding ACT scoring can be intimidating at first glance, and dissecting the average ACT score can be confusing. Keep reading to learn how the ACT is scored, what you need to know about the optional ACT writing section, and what the average ACT score breakdown means for you. How is the ACT scored? The ACT exam sets out to test students readiness to excel in college-level courses. For decades, the SAT was the go-to test for high school juniors and seniors who planned to attend college. Now, in certain parts of the countryparticularly the Midwestthe ACT is as or more common than the SAT. While comparison to others is often discouraged, when it comes to college admissions, comparing one student to another is precisely what admissions committees do. In light of this reality, it can be helpful for you to know and understand your ACT score, as well as how it compares to the average ACT score. The average ACT score is a 21. In light of this information, a score of 32 (for example) would be well above average. This is a positive sign, but your composite score doesnt offer a complete picture of your academic abilities. Instead, consider it a quick reference. For instance, if Person A earned a score of 30, you can assume that he or she did relatively well on all four sections, whereas a score of 18 would suggest that he or she did poorly on one or more of the sections. Your overall, or composite, ACT result is an averaged, scaled score that reflects your performance in each section. Let's take the following scenario, for example, if you earned a: 30 in English 33 in Mathematics 31 in Reading 34 in Science. Your composite score would be a 32. This is due to the averaging of each section. Essentially, each sections score is added together and divided by four. This will give you your composite score. The below chart illustrates how percentile rankings coincide with your ACT score. As shown, if you receive an ACT score of 25, your score falls in the top 20 percent of test-takers. Percentile ACT Score (out of 36) Top 1% 34 or higher Top 5% 30 Top 10% 28 Top 20% 25 Top 30% 23 Top 40% 22 Top 50% average 21 *The above data comes from ACT.org. Rather than looking solely at your composite score as a measure of your abilities, the section scores, benchmarks, and rankings made available to you on your official score report will tell you far more about where you truly stand. ACT terms can be confusing at first, especially when attempting to analyze your score report. Below is an ACT keywords chart to reference when understanding your ACT score. Understanding what each score you receive means will help you to better grasp the breakdown of your score, and in turn, compare it to the national average ACT score. How are ACT sections scored? As previously mentioned, each of the four sections on the ACT has a raw score. The English section, for example, has 75 questions. If you answer all 75 correctly, your raw score would be 75. This score is then converted to a scaled result between 1 and 36 points, which is further divided into two subscores. Why are there subscores? Each portion of the ACT tests you on various aspects of a particular subject. In the English section, you will be tested on your ability to comprehend and employ the mechanics of the language, as well as your ability to craft an argument. Each subscore falls between 1 and 18, for a total of 1 to 36 points. (Note that 1 is the lowest, and that 18 or 36 is the highest.) Benchmark Average ACT English score 18 20.3 ACT Math Score 22 20.7 ACT Reading Score 22 21.4 ACT Science Score 23 20.9 When analyzing your English score, the first metric to consider is the benchmark score, which, according to ACT, Inc., indicates at least a 50% chance of getting a B or higher or about a 75% chance of getting a C or higher in a first-year college class... Thus, your score should be above the benchmark. For the English section, the benchmark score is 18. If you earn an 18 or above, you are likely ready for college-level English material. The average score for this section is 20.3. Using the score from our hypothetical scenario, you earned a 30 in English, which means that your score is above average and in the 91st percentile. The Mathematics portion of the ACT tests students in three areas: pre-algebra/elementary algebra, algebra/coordinate geometry, and plane geometry/trigonometry. The benchmark score for the ACT Mathematics section is 22, and the national average is 20.7. If you were to earn a score of 18 on this portion (rather than our hypothetical of 33), you would fall below the benchmark and the national average, with a rank in the 45th percentile. In this case, you can see how an above-average composite score might provide an inaccurate representation of your abilities across different fields of study. If they were to take a closer look at your section scores, admissions officials would realize that your math skills are somewhat below average and in need of improvement. With that said, the national average suggests that many ACT test-takers perform at a below-average level on the Mathematics portion, so you would not be alone. The Reading section consists of two subscores that test your comprehension of the social studies/sciences and arts/literature. The first two portions of this subtest, social studies and natural sciences, present passages from fields like anthropology, chemistry, and psychology. The third and fourth portions, arts and literature, present passages from novels and personal essays. Each passages purpose is to evaluate your ability to grasp the concepts being presented, to identify the main ideas, and to use reasoning to arrive at the point of the work. You may also be asked to identify implicit meaning or to demonstrate an understanding of certain words in context. In this case, the benchmark is 22, and the national average is 21.4. Recalling our hypothetical scenario, you received a 31, which places you above the benchmark. You are also in the 91st percentile. You performed at an above-average level, and you should be prepared for college-level reading comprehension tasks. Unlike other sections of the ACT, the Science portion has no subscores, and you will only receive a single score between 1 and 36. The benchmark for this section is 23, the highest of all four portions of the ACT. The Science section measures your comprehension of data sets like charts and graphs, while also assessing your knowledge of the fundamental concepts and theories that drive the field. You may be asked to read research summaries or to compare conflicting viewpoints. The average Science score is 20.9, which falls below the benchmark. With a hypothetical score of 34, you would be well above average and in the 99th percentile. [RELATED: What I Wish I Knew About Taking the ACT/SAT] What should you know about the optional ACT Essay? As you now know, your ACT score is comprised of four sections, but there is also an optional fifth sectionthe Writing subtest, which requires the composition of a short essay. Before you decide whether or not you will take the ACT essay, keep in mind that although it will not change your composite score, it is required by certain schools and recommended by others. Its important to note that ACT Writing is less firmly required than in past years. Many schools, particularly Ivy League universities, are choosing to make the essay portion of the ACT optional for students. In May 2018, schools such as Yale University, Harvard University, and Dartmouth University made the essay optional for students in future classes. The latest to announce this change in requirements is Brown University, who dropped the ACT essay requirement early in July 2018. With fewer and fewer schools requiring the ACT essay, does this mean you shouldnt take it? Its key to note that although schools are dropping the ACT essay requirement, this doesnt mean the essay is not recommended. Taking the essay portion can strengthen existing writing skills and prepare you for college writing. Additionally, if you feel you are a strong writer, the ACT essay can showcase your skills to schools. In order to determine whether the colleges and universities to which you are applying require this ACT component, speak with the admissions department or review the schools website. In addition to the above mentioned schools, the following universities no longer require the ACT essay: Columbia University University of Pennsylvania Cornell University Stanford University Princeton University California Institute of Technology. During the Writing section of the ACT, you will be provided with an issue and three different perspectives on that issue. Once you have read the passage, you will be asked to analyze each perspective and to develop a written response that takes all three into consideration and demonstrates your critical thinking skills. The purpose of the ACT essay is to assess a students critical reading and thinking skills, as well as his or her ability to form an argument based on the evidence presented in the text. As with the other sections, you will be given a score between 1 and 36. There is no benchmark for the Writing subtest and no current average. However, there are four subscores that range from 2 to 12: ideas and analysis, development and support, organization, and language use and conventions. [RELATED: How to Prepare for the ACT Essay] What are the additional scores on my ACT score report? The information presented thus far explains what each subject area measures, how to interpret your score, and how a given result compares to the national average. When you receive your ACT score report, however, you will notice that there are additional scores and percentages reported along with your composite and section scores. The first is your English Language Arts (or ELA) score, which combines your English, Reading, and Writing scores into a single scaled and averaged score between 1 and 36. The purpose of this metric is to provide a single score that reflects your abilities in subjects like the humanities. Assume you earned a 25 on the English section, a 22 on the Reading section, and a 25 on the Writing section. Your ELA score would be a 24. While the data on national averages has not yet been released, you would be in the 70th percentile according to ACT, Inc. The same equation is used to calculate a single score for Mathematics and Science. In this case, a STEM score of 19 would fall in the 44th percentile. This section of your report also provides insight into your understanding of complex texts and what the ACT refers to as Progress Toward Career Readiness. The scales for these items can be viewed here. Finally, when you register for the ACT, you will be asked to provide the names of those schools that should receive your score report. When you receive your results, you will notice that ACT, Inc. has included information on the average scores for enrolled first-year students at your first four institutions, as well as GPAs and class rankings. How do schools use the ACT? Each college or university is unique, and each institution has something different in mind when it comes to its ideal applicant. This means that an average or lower-than-average ACT score will not necessarily prevent you from attending the school of your choice. Below is a chart detailing the average ACT score at select institutions. Its key to remember that universitiesIvy League or otherwiselook at factors besides standardized test scores. Schools use the ACT as one factor, in addition to others, when making admissions decisions. They note participation in extracurricular and volunteer activities, cumulative GPA, and types of courses you took in high school, to name a few. University Average ACT Score in 2017 Princeton University 32-36 Dartmouth College 32 Columbia University 33-35 Cornell University 33 Its best not to make decisions about where to apply based solely on the average ACT scores of accepted students, since college admissions decisions are based on a number of factors. Still, knowing how your score compares to other applicants can help you narrow down your short list of schools. Such data can help you eliminate outliers that are too high or too low given your own metrics. You can also call or email the admissions department, and discuss how your scores will affect your chances of admission. What does this ACT breakdown mean for me? In many cases, composite scores, section scores, subscores, benchmarks, national averages, and the like are the purvey of admissions committees, high school guidance counselors, and parents. Nevertheless, breaking down these various scores can provide you with a wealth of important informationnot just about the average ACT score, but also about what schools might be looking for from applicants, and how you can become a more appealing candidate. If this information leads you to believe you should be making a bigger effort to improve your ACT score, consider using ACT practice tests or ACT tutoring for help. In your personal statement, for instance, you will probably explain who you are as a person and who you are as a student. This may include a summary of your academic areas of interest and one or more majors that you are considering pursuing. Whatever you tell admissions committees about your academic goals and dreams, you should ensure that your statement is enhanced and supported by your ACT scores. If, for example, you love science and you hope to pursue a degree in chemistry, a low score on the Science section of the ACT could suggest that you might not be ready for college-level science courses. As a result, you might not receive an offer of admission. [RELATED: What to Do When Rejected from Your Dream School] To identify your goal score, you can both review how ACT scoring is broken down and establish reliable prep strategies. The best way to understand how you will perform on the ACT leading up to the exam is to take ACT practice tests. Practice tests can help identify areas of both strength and weakness. You can note whether you need improvement on time management or if you excel at specific concepts. Once you have taken your practice test, set aside time to review the results and note where you should be placing the bulk of your prep time. Identify your goal score by researching the average ACT score of accepted students at your schools of interest and comparing this with your practice test results. ACT tutoring is another option to pinpoint areas of improvement and set specific prep strategies for success on the exam. [RELATED: How to Create an ACT Prep Plan] Understanding the average ACT score can be beneficial to you for a multitude of reasons. Knowing that the average ACT score is 21 can help you to identify your target score and properly prep for the exam. Once you understand the average ACT score and how it is broken down, you can properly assess what the average ACT score means for you. Any topics you want to know more about? Let us know! The Varsity Tutors Blog editors love hearing your feedback and opinions. Feel free to email us atblog@varsitytutors.com.

Circulatory System Functions

Circulatory System Functions As animals grow in size and complexity, tissues and organs with specific functions developed each dependent onthe others for some essential process or chemicals. The need arose for a system to transport materials, especially food, oxygen, CO2 and wastes between the various organs. The circulatory system mediates the continuous movement of all body fluids. The circulatory system helps in the following functions: 1. Transport of nutrients: Sugars, amino acids, minerals and vitamins are picked up by blood from intestine and transported to different parts of the body for storage and assimilation. 2. Transport of oxygen: It transports oxygen from the respiratory surface to the tissues for utilization in respiration. 3. Transport of Carbon dioxide: CO2 formed during respiration is taken by blood to the respiratory surface for elimination. 4. Transport of waste products: It carries nitrogenous wastes from various parts of the body to the kidneys for separation and elimination 5. Transport of hormones: Endocrine glands pour their hormones into blood for transport to target tissues. 6. Maintenance of water balance: Circulating blood provides water and inorganic salts in the region of deficiency and removes the same in the area of excess. 7. Regulation of body temperature: Blood distributes heat to all parts of the body. It also conducts heat to the surface for dissipation 8. Maintenance of pH: Blood maintains pH of tissue fluids with the help of various buffers. 9. Body defence: Blood contains phagocytic leucocytes, and immunocytes for defence against germs.

How Often Should You Change Your Guitar Strings

How Often Should You Change Your Guitar Strings Suzy S. Are you wondering how often you should be changing your guitar strings?   Its a common question for beginner guitarists, and it goes hand-in-hand with general guitar maintenance.   Read on for some great advice from one of our office rock stars, Megan L Learning how to take care of a guitar can seem like a mysterious and difficult undertaking. When I was first learning to play, I was surprised at how much care and attention goes into keeping this instrument sounding great. Between tuning, cleaning and changing strings, at times I felt more like I had invested in a strange new pet than in a guitar. Over time, I found that learning when to change my strings actually made my guitar sound a lot better, which helped me to become a more confident player. Many factors go into determining how often you should consider changing your guitar strings. Dirt and oil from your hands can build up on the strings, causing the sound to become sort of flat or dead. (Learn how to clean your guitar strings here!) Strings stretch out as they are played and eventually do not hold tune well any longer. Additionally, steel strings can rust, which not only affects the sound of your guitar but also makes it kind of gross to play. If you are playing for several hours every day, you might want to change your guitar strings as often as once a week. If you arent quite ready for that much string-changing, washing your hands before you play can help reduce the amount of dirt and oil from your skin that gets onto your strings. However, if you have extra sweaty hands when you play, you might want to change your strings more often. If you notice your guitar doesnt hold tune as well as it used to or the tone sounds less rich, you might see a vast improvement if you just change your strings. Personally, I like to change my strings a day or two before a performance. Not only does it make my guitar sound better, but it helps me feel more prepared to succeed. Megan L., TakeLessons staff member Interested in Private Lessons? Search thousands of teachers for local and live, online lessons. Sign up for convenient, affordable private lessons today! Search for Your Teacher Photo by meddygarnet

LSAT Tip of the Week How to Read an Argument

LSAT Tip of the Week How to Read an Argument LSAT Law School Blog The Argument Section of the LSAT, also known as the logical reasoning section, is made up of 24 to 26 arguments. Helpful LSAT course sites like 7Sageusually include an entire section devoted to logical reasoning and arguments. The first step to answering a logical reasoning question is, surprise, surprise, thinking critically. Usually when we think of arguments, we think of heated or emotional exchanges between people. For the purposes of the LSAT, it is very important that you do not respond to the information presented in an emotional way. Your goal is not to agree or disagree with the content, but rather to analyze the strengths or flaws of the argument itself. You want to make sure that you understand the author’s conclusion and how they used evidence to form their argument. If you are able to understand HOW the author argues, you will be better prepared to answer the question at hand. As you try to understand the HOW, it is crucial to remember that it is usually pretty difficu lt to make a nuanced and full argument within the span of three or four sentences. This means, that usually there will be some gap in the author’s argument. As you read, train your brain to be on the lookout for flaws in the argument. Stay on the lookout for what the author is attempting to convince you of, how the author is using evidence to support their point, and where in the argument the author has failed in that effort.