<p>Hello, so I am quite confused. Back in sophomore year I took the PSAT and scored a whopping 161, I know great right? Well approximately a year later, on this October 2014 test, I took the SAT. I did minimal prep in between and scored a 2050 (690R 690M 670W). My first question is how does a score increase so drastically with such little prep, I doubt I got that much smarter within a year. Secondly, how should I prep for the next SAT in December, and can I expect another natural increase? I understand some of these questions may seem stupid or speculative but I am just curious. Thank you!</p>
<p>I agree with you. I scored a 163 on the PSAT (10th) and 154 (11th) and scored a 1880 on the SAT, not as much improvement as you but with no prep. My friend scored like a 178 on the PSAT and scored an 1840 on PSAT…so it seems like for some people it’s more representative than for others. </p>
<p>As to how to study for December exam….buy the College Board blue book and start working your way through the ten practice tests. Take tests in simulated testing conditions (timed, take scheduled breaks, etc) Carve out the full 3.5+ hours on a weekend and take one test per weekend. You can also take another test during the week, but it is difficult to find the block of time on school nights. You should be able to complete one 25 minute section each week night though. </p>
<p>Be sure to go review any question you got wrong and any you guessed on. (Mark in pencil in book so that you know when you guessed.)</p>
<p>As to how the score increased……was much of the increase in math? What math class were you in during sophomore year? The test you took last year was the same test Jrs took last year, so perhaps you learned a great deal during the past twelve months. Regardless, you are in a good place and now just need to prep. If you do not feel you have enough time, you may want to consider delaying the Dec exam to Jan. You will lose some money, but better to be properly prepared.</p>
<p>Your test scores are supposed to go up naturally as you go in higher grades and learn higher level maths, take higher level English courses, do a bit more writing and read a few more books. </p>