<p>I need a 500 to qualify for FSU. I have a 430. My highest math class is geometry. I'm taking 2 math classes next semester (financial algebra/alg 2 hon) and I really need help. I want to get into FSU so badly!!</p>
<p>All my other scores are legit. I have a 1560 SAT total. Please help</p>
<p>What grade are you? You really need to have completed algebra 2 to do well in SAT 1 math. The test is littered with algebra problems. If you are a junior, wait until you completed algebra 2 or register to take the test at the very end of the year.</p>
<p>Otherwise, you learn how to do it by practicing. Buy a Bluebook or borrow one from a library, try to do one or two sections of math test on each sitting for at least 2-3 times a week. Carefully go over all the answers especially the ones you get wrong and review the concept that you need to know to answer those questions. You can start slow and take your time at first, but soon after, you need to practice doing the tests within the time limit. Keep doing the tests until you can consistently get around 7 out of 10 questions right or better, then I think you can make 500 pretty easily.</p>
<p>I am a senior :(</p>
<p>I understand where you’re coming from. I took the SAT for the first time and got 1670 (460 in math). I was determined to raise my score to at least 500 so I could have a fighting chance of getting in at ncstate. I am happy to report that my SAT score from this month just came out and I got my math score to 530! So it IS possible to raise you score 70 points, it just takes patience and determination on your part.</p>
<p>1st off buy 2 SAT books (or borrow them from a library), one from Kaplan and one from Princeton Review. Kaplan CLEARLY explains the answers to math problems and has great strategy tips. Princeton Review has harder practice tests and a wider range of math topics covered. I liked using both books for this reason.</p>
<p>Next, take a practice test completely blind (without studying or reviewing any math). Make sure to take it like a real test. Have someone time each section, take it in a quiet area at a desk. No breaks. do not cut yourself any slack on the time of each section. Do NOT peek at the answers. As you take the test mark the math problems with a symbol (maybe a check mark if you think you got the problem right, a circle if you guessed, and an X if you have no idea). After the test is finished, spend a good 1-2 days reviewing every math problem. Use those symbols you made during the test to help you see what areas of math are your weakness.</p>
<p>Now start by spending 2-3 weeks reviewing algebra/math basics. I’m talking multiplying/dividing negative numbers, multiplying/dividing fractions, number groups etc… in the Kaplan book they have a basic math section. review that whole chapter thoroughly. If you need more practise problems look online. Do not worry about how long it takes you to do a problem, just focus on understanding the information. From now on you need to study at least 5 days a week for 1-2 hours JUST SAT math.</p>
<p>Move on studying through the math chapters in the Kaplan book. Don’t just read a chapter and move on. Really STUDY it. Try the example questions before looking at their explanation. Use past editions of Kapaln books to find specific problem types and try them out. Do at least 5 of a problem type before deciding if you can move on. If you get all of them right, move on. If you have 3 or more wrong then spend a few study sessions focusing on that type of problem. </p>
<p>Every month take 2 complete practise math tests and review your answers (in addition to your normal study sessions). At first you might not see your score improve, but slowly it will begin to go up! </p>
<p>In the last 2 months before the real SAT, shift your focus to your timing through that math sections and come up with a strategy. I figured out that to get a score of at least 500 (taking into account the # of problems I usually get wrong in each section) I had to answer at LEAST half of every math section, and answer ALL the Grid-Ins. Grid-Ins are your friend! You are NOT deducted points if you get a Grid in wrong, so spend extra time reviewing HOW to properly grid in problems. </p>
<p>If you just can’t work out a math problem on your own, seek help online or from a friend. In math I have found it is all about practice, practice, practice. The more you review the faster you will see results. </p>
<p>I hope this helps you out! If you have any questions just ask. 
Good luck!</p>
<p>And you will be taking algebra 2 in the last semester of your senior year? Algebra 2 is a full year course, why is it being offered for only one semester and why during senior year? I would do what I suggest anyway, maybe get an algebra review book like a SparkNotes and quickly go over the major topics. Do it now, and do as many practice test in the bluebook as you can before the next real test. If you have trouble understanding how to do it, try to get some help from someone who can explain how to do the problems that you cannot do.</p>
<p>Jedexx, the problem is he does not have a lot of time now. The last SAT test date that he can use for applying is probably Dec 3. He needs to sit down and do these practice tests now. Do them every day if he has the time until December. Review concepts and problems that he cannot do as he goes along. Get some help from someone if he can also.</p>
<p>You’re right, I kind of assumed he was a Junior and so would have a chance at the SAT one or two more times. Still, if he did the above plan and just skipped to taking practice tests every day and reviewing specific types of problems he is missing, it should still help. Your tips are also helpful.</p>