Skip to Main Content
Today's Hours

Database Tips and Tricks

While most of our information is available through our main search bar on the homepage some of our databases have extra features when accessed directly.

Introduction

Image copyright EBSCO LearningExpress. Used with permission.

 

PrepSTEP is a one-stop resource for placement test prep, building academic and technology skills, and exploring career options. It provides access to both academic and career-oriented placement tests; instructional videos and practice tests for English, math, science, and computer skills; e-books; and more. For in-depth instruction on using the different features of PrepSTEP, you can view video tutorials here.

Registering and Signing In

While you do not need to register or sign in to view what general topics PrepSTEP covers, you will need to register for an account and then sign in to complete and save your progress for practice tests as well as access e-books and any other materials available on PrepSTEP. Once you click Sign in/Register at the top right corner of the homepage, choose the option to register for an account as a new user. You'll need to select VPCC as your institution and then fill out the rest of the form. You will only need to register once and then can simply sign in the next time you use PrepSTEP.

Skill-Building

PrepSTEP offers self-paced tutorials and practice sets on math ranging from developmental math to pre-calculus; science; reading and writing; computer skills from the basics to AWS cloud computing; college success skills, and more. Once you click on a subject from the homepage, you will be taken to the list of tutorials, microlessons, and e-books/articles PrepSTEP offers on the subject. If you begin a microlesson, tutorial, e-book, or access other content, it will be saved to your account for easy access later. You have the option of downloading e-books and articles to your device.

 

Test Prep

PrepSTEP provides a wide range of test prep resources, including practice tests for college placement tests as well as tests taken for career fields such as nursing, EMS, military, civil service, cosmetology, and more. You can view the available resources for the listed career fields, or if you are searching for a specific test such as TEAS or ASVAB, you can also use the search bar at top. 

One helpful feature of PrepSTEP's practice tests is the ability to change the amount of feedback you receive during the test. See the video below for more in-depth instructions on taking a test.

Accessing Saved Work

To access any of the microlessons, tests, e-books, or any other material you have worked on in PrepSTEP, hover over your name at the top right of the page and then select "My Center." There, you will find a list of your saved work and can revisit any saved resources.

For Faculty

PrepSTEP content can be integrated into your Canvas courses! See the guide below for information on using the external tool function to add the desired resource. Grades for tests assigned through PrepSTEP will automatically be uploaded to your course's gradebook when assignments are completed. If you have any questions, please reach out to us via phone or email.