<p>Usually without stupid mistakes I miss 2 questions which I really did not know how to do. I make about 2-3 stupid mistakes per section which drastically lowers my score. I'm baffled because I know all of the math but I keep making these really dumb errors. Do you guys know any ways that I can avoid a dumb mistake? (a dumb mistake is not like an arithmetic mistake, more like I did not do an important step like add the other side of a triangle). </p>
<p>Hey, Doc325. To what extent are you underlining the questions? I coach students in the SAT and ACT, and I find that underlining can be one of the biggest game changes in avoiding careless errors. If I were to make one suggestion (without knowing your current technique), it would be to underline. Underline the important data points, and the data point that you are being asked to find.</p>
<p>Also, how much time do you have at the end of a math section? Perhaps get into the habit of re-reading the question before you mark an answer choice (The two key questions of any math problem: What do I know? What do I need to know?). It sounds like you are losing track of the “What do I need to know?” question.</p>
<p>Even if you aren’t finishing early, you might consider slowing your pacing down (a bit). Not finishing the last few questions (also the most complicated) is worth it if it means earning points elsewhere that you would have lost to careless errors (especially given that in the SAT you are deducted points for questions answered incorrectly, and in the ACT you can still guess and may pick up a point or two). As you gain accuracy and proficiency, you can pick up your pace again.</p>
<p>Lastly, try reviewing a previous practice test (careless mistakes and all) before your next practice section. By being attuned to the kind of mistakes you are making, with practice you will be less likely to continue making them.</p>
<p>Hope this helps! Let me know if you have other questions.</p>
<p>Erika</p>
<p>I agree with OP… I’ve made really stupid mistakes in mis-reading the question carefully. I need to get in the habit of underlining sentences :P</p>
<p>In other words, I just purchased the highly-recommended PWN the SAT Math for the heck of it, because I heard that it has some key information in helping students re-learn sections, etc</p>
Even I make a lot of silly mistakes in maths… And I m really fed up… I know all questions but these mistakes lower my score…guys please help…I have my SAT in November… Pls give me some suggestions…