As a parent, it’s natural to want your teen to succeed academically. Standardized tests like the SAT, ACT, or AP exams can feel overwhelming, and sometimes classroom instruction alone isn’t enough. That’s where a test prep tutor can make a real difference. But how do you know when your teen might need that extra support? Here are some key signs …
Score Reports: How to Read and Understand Your SAT and ACT Results
Receiving your SAT or ACT score reports can be exciting—but also a little confusing. Both tests provide detailed reports that break down your performance across sections, skills, and content areas. Understanding what each number and category means is key to planning your next steps, improving your scores, and making informed college application decisions. This guide will help you make sense …
Curvebreakers recently quoted in The Wall Street Journal
Curvebreakers’ owner Nicholas LaPoma was quoted in an article published on October 7th, 2025 by The Wall Street Journal about the pressures of high school admissions testing. The article follows two parents who hired a Brooklyn-based consultant to help their son through the high school admissions process, which has become extremely competitive with some families spending thousands to gain an …
Spaced Repetition: How to Remember More in Less Time
Studying for the SAT, ACT, Regents, or AP exams often feels like a race against the clock. Students spend hours reviewing material, only to forget it days later. The problem isn’t always effort—it’s the way the brain processes and stores information. That’s where spaced repetition comes in. What Is Spaced Repetition? Spaced repetition is a scientifically backed learning technique that …
Why Practice Tests Matter More Than You Think
When students start preparing for the SAT, ACT, or Regents exams, many focus on flashcards, review books, or tutoring sessions. While those tools are helpful, there’s one preparation strategy that consistently makes the biggest difference: taking full-length practice tests. At Curvebreakers, we’ve seen firsthand how practice tests transform student performance — not just by improving scores, but also by boosting …
Balance Sports and Academics Without Falling Behind
Fall is one of the busiest times of year for high school students. Between the excitement of football games, soccer practices, cross-country meets, and the start of a new academic year, it can feel like there aren’t enough hours in the day. For student-athletes, the challenge is clear: how do you balance sports and academics without letting one suffer? The …
How Curvebreakers Test Prep Is Changing the Game — Insights from the NY Business Podcast
If you’ve ever wondered what really goes into building a standout test prep company — one that goes beyond cookie-cutter methods — you’ll want to listen to this conversation. On the New York Business Podcast, Nicholas LaPoma, founder of Curvebreakers Test Prep, sits down to talk about how he built his business, what differentiates it, and how they’re guiding students …
Letters of Recommendation: How to Secure Strong Ones This Fall
Letters of recommendation can make or break a student’s application, whether it’s for college, scholarships, or competitive programs. Securing strong, personalized recommendations takes strategy, preparation, and thoughtful communication. Here’s how to get the best letters this fall. 1. Start Your Letters of Recommendation Early Don’t wait until the last minute. Teachers and mentors are busiest during the school year, so …
Extracurriculars in College Admissions (and What Really Matters)
When it comes to college applications, students often ask: Do extracurriculars really matter as much as grades and test scores? The short answer is yes—but maybe not in the way you think. Why Colleges Care About Extracurriculars Extracurriculars give colleges insight into who you are outside of the classroom. They show your interests, passions, and how you choose to spend …
Curvebreakers Welcomes 10 New Partners
We’re thrilled to share some exciting news—10 new schools and organizations have officially joined as partners with Curvebreakers. Together, we’re expanding access to the tools, strategies, and confidence students need to excel on the SAT, ACT, and beyond. Meet Our Newest Partners From classrooms in New York City to community-driven organizations in New Jersey, each of these new partners represents …