What to Do to Prepare for the SAT

If you want to attend college, you will likely need to complete the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT). The SAT, also known as the Scholastic Assessment Test, is widely used in the US for college admissions. This test assesses high school students’ readiness for college by evaluating the skills they have in math, reading, and writing.

Scores achieved through the SAT are one of the factors colleges and universities use in the admissions process, so this is understandably a big deal for prospective students. This is why there is a lot of pressure put on candidates to achieve high scores, and a lot of preparation is needed to do that.

In this post, three of the best tips to prepare for the SAT have been outlined, and these tips will hopefully help you achieve success.

Familiarize Yourself with the Test

The first task to complete when preparing for the SAT is to familiarize yourself with the test. While taking practice tests can help with this, you should prioritize understanding the test structure beforehand. There are four sections in the SAT – Language and Writing, Math (no calculator), Math (calculator allowed), and Reading. Each section has a time limit, as shown below:

• Language and Writing: 44 questions in 35 minutes.
• Math (no calculator): 20 questions in 25 minutes.
• Math (calculator allowed): 38 questions in 55 minutes.
• Reading: 52 questions in 65 minutes.

When you know the time limits for each section, you can then begin reviewing the content. Each section will cover its own topics, such as algebra, geometry, grammar rules, and reading comprehension. There will be different types of questions – e.g. grid-in math questions, multiple choice, etc. – within each section that you need to be aware of, too.

With the test becoming more familiar, it is advised to take practice tests. This will involve using official SAT practice tests from College Board to simulate the actual exam conditions. You should time yourself to ensure you stick to the limits for each section and review your answers afterward to find areas for improvement.

Research Effective Study Techniques

After taking a few practice tests, you should be more aware of the areas you need to work on with more vigor. This information will allow you to create a study plan that allocates time to your weaker areas. It is important to break down larger topics into smaller, manageable chunks to avoid becoming overwhelmed. The study plan should include regular practice sessions to track your progress.

This will become easier when you incorporate effective study methods, including time management and spaced repetition. Time management will involve pacing yourself during the practice SAT tests to avoid getting stuck on difficult questions and/or rushing through sections. Spaced repetition includes reviewing material over and over to reinforce your understanding.

These techniques will help you feel more prepared, ensuring you know and understand the information required. If you require additional help, then you can reach out to professionals who have the expertise to assist students with test prep. Going Ivy, for example, creates a tailored approach to help students succeed by understanding the individual’s learning style.

Avoid Common SAT Prep Challenges

Unfortunately, you might encounter some problems when preparing for the SAT. This can range from struggling to manage your time to staying motivated to overcoming test anxiety. These are common challenges that students will experience and need to overcome if they want to succeed when taking this test.

Practice tests will help to better your time management, but it can be difficult to calm stress and test anxiety if you do not have the correct tools. You might experience a lot of pressure because of how high stakes this exam is, meaning you have more anxiety and stress. It is best to practice relaxation techniques, like deep breathing and mindfulness, to stay calm before, during, and after the test.

You must also set achievable goals to ensure you stay motivated. As preparations for the SAT will take up a lot of time, it can be difficult to sustain the necessary motivation. Your study plan will break down the material into manageable chunks, and this will prevent burnout, too.

To conclude, preparing for the SAT is a difficult task, but it is often necessary for those who wish to attend college. With the knowledge that this post offers, you will be better prepared and ready to succeed when you take the test.