Help on SAT Math: 800 seems not too far but unreachable

<p>So I have been frustrated with this portion of SAT. I went from high 5s to low 7s on W, and the CR was also increasing with time. Ironically, math was my strongest side and disappointed me in SATs.</p>

<p>The first time I took SAT, with no preparation at all, I scored a 710 on math. Since then, it decreased by 20 points every time I took it. Now it's landing on 670. Even more frustrating: I only practiced more and more with time. (I must note that last time I tested after 20 hours of traveling, went straight to essay from station. I was stressed out)</p>

<p>After analyzing the types of questions and difficulty levels, I can't have an idea of how to work on this portion to ultimately get an 800 on May test. It appears that I miss 'medium' level ones in algebra+functions and number+operations. I usually get correct most of the questions at the end of the sections, so I guess I know the concepts tested on SAT. I had problems with geometry earlier: I missed hard questions at first, then medium ones, and now zero. That points to something incorrect with approach and/or ptactice. Anyone who was in a similar situation please help me out! It seems a joke, and I want to see the end :/. Thanks!</p>

<p>(sorry, I sound bada**, but I can't take it anymore)</p>

<p>Okay, some of you might think I’m obsessed with perfect things; however, this isn’t the case. I’m looking for scholarship money. Given that my CR score is pretty low and it takes a lot of time and efforts to be increased, I’m looking at math section. I don’t have a problem if I get 790, but when it comes about exact score cutoff and sometimes a huge amount of $$, you know, every single point means a lot. Therefore, the higher, the better. :)</p>

<p>Practicing problems from various sources, from prep books (I suggest PWN the SAT Math) to actual tests, is definitely your best bet. I know your pain; having done math competitions and such, I was frustrated when I didn’t get an 800 on the SAT math the first time around. Keeping a notebook and detailing your errors - however minor - will help you keep those mistakes in the back of your mind.</p>

<p>Hope that helps.</p>

<p>PWN the SAT is a great source; there are some interesting problems as well.
I have started taking notes, wish that brings a positive effect on my score. Thanks pandapwner!</p>

<p>Any more helps, please?</p>

<p>On the math it is easier to miss the medium level problems because they often rely on wording to make the question difficult. This means that if one has their guard down and does not read carefully, they will likely miss the problem. The harder problems rely on advanced concepts or approaches that require some insight, here if you see the path then you are unlikely to trip on the actual operations. I would say don’t take the easy and medium questions lightly, read them carefully, at least twice, check to make sure you are answering what they are asking, and if time permits to double check the work. There is really no magic pill to getting over these types of mistakes, but practicing and being aware of the common pitfalls will likely help you plug this weakness. And finally practice with as many official SAT questions as you can.</p>

<p>stop being so stressed and just relax when you take it and you should be ok</p>