Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing test prep, but the key to real success still lies in the power of human guidance, expertise, and personalized support.
GUEST COLUMN | by Scott Woodbury-Stewart
JHENY NERIZA AMANDA
Artificial intelligence (AI) isn’t just changing how students learn—it’s redefining what’s possible.
Imagine a world where no student hits a dead end on a tough problem, where study plans shift and evolve based on real progress, and where expert-level explanations are available anytime, anywhere. AI is making that world a reality, and in test prep, its impact is undeniable.
For decades, test prep has been about more—more practice questions, more study hours, more stress. But the secret to success isn’t just volume; it’s strategy. It’s knowing what to study, when to study it, and how to adjust based on performance. AI-powered tools are finally making this level of precision available to everyone.
‘It’s knowing what to study, when to study it, and how to adjust based on performance. AI-powered tools are finally making this level of precision available to everyone.’
I’ve spent my career making test prep smarter, more accessible, and more effective. I now believe AI is a strong equalizer—giving every student, no matter their background, the tools to master exams like the GMAT. The future of test prep isn’t just about keeping up with AI—it’s about making sure AI keeps up with what students truly need.
Leveling the Playing Field in Test Prep
Standardized tests have long been seen as gateways to opportunity, but for many students, they’ve felt more like barriers. Access to personalized study plans and high-quality test prep has often been limited, making it harder for some students to reach their full potential. AI is changing that by providing scalable, adaptive learning that meets students where they are.
Instead of static prep books or generic study plans, AI-driven platforms tailor study plans in real-time, adapting to each student’s strengths and weaknesses. They identify patterns in mistakes, adjust question difficulty, and provide instant, expert-level feedback. This isn’t just more efficient—it’s more equitable.
With AI, personalized, high-quality test prep is no longer a luxury. It’s a tool available to every student willing to put in the effort. And that’s a game-changer.
Smarter, Not Just Easier
Critics worry that AI could make studying too easy—that students will rely on it for quick answers rather than deep understanding. That’s a legitimate concern, but when used correctly, AI doesn’t just hand out solutions; it teaches problem-solving.
The best AI-driven platforms don’t just show the right answer. They guide students through the reasoning behind it, step by step. They provide explanations that break down complex ideas into manageable pieces. They help students recognize patterns and build confidence in their ability to think critically under pressure.
Of course, AI isn’t perfect. It can get things wrong. It can’t replace human mentorship. And in some cases, it can be expensive—though still far less so than traditional tutoring. The key is to use AI as a tool, not a crutch. The goal isn’t just to get students to the right answer—it’s to make them better problem-solvers along the way.
The Future of AI in Test Prep
AI in test prep is only getting started. For example, AI-powered chatbots are becoming an integral part of GMAT and GRE preparation, providing students with personalized, real-time support. These advancements reflect a broader shift in test prep, where AI-driven tools are making studying more adaptive and efficient.
In the coming years, we’ll see even smarter study plans, more intuitive tutoring experiences, and deeper insights into student progress. But as AI becomes more sophisticated, the challenge will be ensuring that it serves students, not just the companies building the tools.
Higher education must remain committed to mentorship, critical thinking, and meaningful learning. AI should complement these values, not replace them. That means using AI to enhance understanding, not shortcut it. It means prioritizing student growth over quick-fix test hacks. And it means keeping education about thinking, not just answering.
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Scott Woodbury-Stewart is CEO and founder of Target Test Prep. Scott has taught courses in physics, chemistry, and math. Connect with Scott on LinkedIn.
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Original Article Published at Edtech Digest
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