Richard Rome has many qualifications for writing a book on how to prepare for college admission tests. However, the one that is most important is that he is a superb teacher.

This is true for reasons that extend beyond his sincere interest in helping students improve their scores or his dedication to learning. These are integral to his character, and I know from personal experience what great delight he takes when a student solves a math problem or masters a reading passage that was previously beyond his or her capabilities.

Regard for learning and for helping students are, of course, critical to good teaching. However, a deep understanding of the subjects to be taught and a developed sense of how they can be communicated in meaningful and intelligible ways are equally critical. And these too are qualities that Richard Rome possesses in abundance.

What Richard Rome has to offer in this book is, thus, neither magic nor tricks. Rather, what he provides are intelligent analysis and good common sense. He can and does offer sound advice on test taking and he well understands what all should understand - that hard work can make a difference. Still, his most important contribution lies in his insightful treatments of fundamental aspects of mathematical and verbal knowledge. In these discussions his mastery of these subjects shines through and committed attention to them will profit all those who choose to make the effort.