How to prepare for SAT?

Test Preparation
1

<p>Hey guys! So I'm taking my first SAT this October and I don't really know how to prepare for it. I'm not taking any SAT classes because I want to see how I can do on the test with studying on my own. </p>

<p>Right now, I have the Barron's SAT prep book (26th edition), two Collegeboard SAT prep books (different editions, Barron's Hot Words for the SAT, and the Collegeboard Online SAT course. I spent most of my summer going through the vocab words in the both the Barron's book, but I haven't taken any practice tests fully yet. </p>

<p>Anyways, I'm trying to prepare myself as best as I can for my October SAT and I was wondering if anyone has any tips on preparing and studying for the test. Anything is helpful (better books, etc.)! Thanks in advance!</p>

2

<p>Hello thuytientime,</p>

<p>I am a current junior in high school, and I am in currently in the midst of studying hard for the SAT/ACT. The best way to score well on this test is to PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE. It is simply the only way you are going to do well. If you don’t figure out how to pace yourself and build up the stamina to take the test, there is no way one can score well. </p>

<p>For the critical reading:

  1. The best book for the vocabulary part of the critical reading for me was the “Direct Hits Core Vocabulary for the SAT”. It has funny and comical ways to remember words, and small anecdotes along with simple and concise definitions. It was really beneficial and pushed me from a 600 to 670-680 (and it will hopefully push me higher). Set goals to learn a certain number of words a day or even a week, and make sure you work hard and do it.
  2. For the reading comprehension, the way to improve is to just simply practice. Get used to reading the style of the passages on the SAT as they are different than the fiction/nonfiction that one reads everyday. Taking practice tests and timing yourself can help you succeed. Also, I underline and annotate and that brought my score up A LOT. Be able to analyze tone/main idea in the passages, as there are always questions over that.</p>

<p>For the Math:

  1. Practice the different problems that the SAT gives. Math is one of those sections that just requires extensive dedication and practice. I do a lot better on my math than I do on other sections, but everyone has different strengths.
  2. One important tip to help you: Go back and analyze a practice test once you take it. See what type of questions you are missing, so that you will have an idea as to what section you need to spend more time working on. Focusing on one section ie geometry or probability can boost your overall math score.</p>

<p>For the Writing Section:

  1. Read the WHOLE question carefully. This is how many mistakes can be identified because they will just sound wrong when you read the sentence in your head.
  2. The College board book is really helpful for the writing, I think.
  3. The Barron’s SAT prep book is also helpful. </p>

<p>Overall, All I can say is that the way to succeed on this test is to simply be dedicated in your practice, and practice for it like it means the world to you. Don’t stress yourself out too far and push yourself too hard that you won’t have a life :stuck_out_tongue: Anyway, good luck and hope this helps you.</p>