Assistance in Improving My Composite Score

<p>Hey guys. I'm thinking of applying to pretty competitive schools. Northwestern would be my ideal choice. However, I know that if I want a fighting chance in applying, I should probably be up in the 33-34 range (anything greater than or equal to a 33 is my goal).</p>

<p>Here is my February 2013 National Test Score:
25 C (28 E, 27 M, 20 R, 25 S, 9 W).</p>

<p>After extensive studying, I attempted and received the following score in the April 2013 National Test:
29 C (33 E, 30 M, 26 R, 26 S, 9 W).</p>

<p>From what I've gathered I should focus more on the latter half of the test (reading and science) to significantly improve my score. The math was kind of low considering my practice tests ranged from 32-33 in math, so I'm not too concerned about it.</p>

<p>I'm currently signed up for the June 8th test, and I feel like it's my last real shot at a good score. Is it plausible to score within the 33-34 range? Any tips to improve my score would be highly appreciated. I'm willing to do anything. </p>

<p>Thanks for your time.</p>

<p>Bump. =/</p>

<p>Just c/p from my post in the other thread. Sorry :<</p>

<p>Honestly, the best way to approach the science and reading sections are to use the method that best suits you whether it be skimming for information or reading the passages and charts thoroughly before answering the questions. Both are proven to get a 36 it really just depends on you. I personally suggest doing the reading section by reading the passage carefully and thoughtfully within 3 minutes and answering the questions in 5 minutes. At the end you would technically have 3 minutes left so you have leeway on a harder passage. If it helps underline key facts so you stay focused or write in the margins if you have to. If you can’t concentrate on a passage try chewing gum as that is something I frequently do.</p>

<p>For the science I suggest doing all the 5 question passages in 4 minutes and the 6 question passages in 5 minutes giving you 8 minutes for the conflicting scientists passages which requires time to read and answer the 7 questions. For the 5 question problems which are based heavily on graphs quickly read the blurbs and answer the questions carefully but quickly. 6 question variants are the experimental so I would skim through the experiment set up so you know what is going on in the labs. The conflicting passage should be approached by reading each view point one at a time and noting differences and similarities. It also helps to write how many questions relate to one, two, both (more if there are more than two vps) and answer the ones that relate to one passage the most if possible.</p>

<p>All basic stuff so the biggest thing is practice! Good luck .</p>