Chances are, the last thing you want to think about is taking the SAT exam. However, your score on this exam will play a large part in determining which colleges you can get into, as well as the types of majors that you can pursue in college. For example, if you want to get into a top school, it might matter more whether you get a high score on the SAT. One of the best ways to guarantee your success is to study the actual SAT exam just as hard as you do the materials you’ll be tested on.
How to Review for the SAT
You should begin reviewing for the SAT exam at least six to eight months prior to actually taking the exam. Aside from your regular academic school work, it’s crucial to study the specific subset of materials that you’ll be tested on during the SAT. This may sound a little excessive, but while SAT test prep isn’t especially difficult, it needs to be done in stages to be most effective.
For best results, you should set aside at least one hour each day for SAT prep. When you have plenty of time to prepare, you’ll be better able to develop study aides and seek out the specific SAT test prep resources that you need. All of this will help you develop a wide base of knowledge and build your confidence levels for the exam.
Working with SAT Practice Exams
Most practice exams use questions that were used on prior exams, so this will give you an excellent opportunity to study how real SAT questions are worded. SAT practice exams will also give you an opportunity to time your performance and find out what your test-taking weaknesses are. As you take more practice exams, you’ll learn how to use test taking strategies to your advantage and fit them into your SAT timing approach.
In addition, taking practice exams will help you pick up on certain styles of questions and develop strategies for answering them. When you’re working with practice exams, it’s also very helpful to have an SAT preparation book on hand. These guides will give you information on how to spot various question types, as well as offer tips for dealing with them.
How to Prepare in the Last Days Before the SAT
Don’t be that guy who starts his SAT prep in the days or hours just before the exam. Among other things, this is a sure recipe for exhaustion. Even if you hire the best private tutors or buy the most expensive SAT study guides, you won’t be able to retain enough of the material you learn to make a difference. Even worse, feeling tired and stressed during the exam can cost you a significant number of points since you won’t be able to focus.
Ideally – if you’ve prepared well – you should be able to relax in the last week before the exam. You may want to take a few SAT practice tests and polish up on your test taking strategies. Although it might be difficult, it’s best to get a full night's sleep before the exam. On the morning of the exam, be sure to eat a good breakfast, double check that you have everything you need for the test, and be confident in the fact that you’ve prepared well for the SAT.
