<p>Let's be clear: the SAT is NOT a measure of intelligence. It's not enough to be smart - you have to know the test. There are review books that tell you how to spot trick questions, how to budget your time, etc. They say you can't study for the SAT because it's a measure of potential. Don't believe them. Learn the test.</p>
<p>"They say you can't study for the SAT because it's a measure of potential. Don't believe them. Learn the test."</p>
<p>Um...college board publishes a large study book with practice tests and a prep course. They obviously think that the test should be studied for.</p>
<p>The College Board doesn't care one way or another if you study. It's all about the $$$.</p>
<p>I do agree that familiarizing yourself with the test layout can be beneficial. But as far as paying hundreds for a prep course, trying to cram your way to a higher score ... that's a waste.</p>
<p>I don't agree that it tests intelligence. One could definitely study for the SAT and do well, just as with grades. The method of studying, however, may play a major role. Testing skills are also very important - I got lots of questions right through guessing tactics.</p>
<p>Don't worry. The SAT measures only a certain set of "reasoning skills" which are sorta decent to solve once you get used to the system. Just take some practice tests, read some prep books, and try again...</p>
<p>:(
Having too much confidence when taking the SATs can hurt.
It's a timed test and you are bound to make careless errors without checking over.
I got a 800 on Math, but I wouldn't have got that 800 if I didn't look over my test again.
I finished all the sections quickly, ten minutes each, and then did each problem again to make sure I didn't err on anything. I found FOUR ERRORS while doing this! I corrected all of them and got a perfect on the Math. </p>
<p>As for the GPA, what is the difficulty of classes that you are taking?
Also.. what is your score (Math + Critical Reading), no one gives a crap about the Writing section.
There are so many ultra rich people out there who are getting a boost on their SAT score because the Writing section is the easiest to prepare for.. so they can get 1200/2000. Most of these people aren't conscientious about their studies (and normally don't have GPAs as high as yours) and really don't deserve the boost, in my opinion.
I think the Writing section is unfair in that respect and since colleges long to increase economic diversity, they won't care too much about Writing.
Math comes a lot more naturally and Critical Reading can be boosted simply by being an avid reader. There is always a library nearby for which this goal can be accomplished.</p>
<p>If your score is a 1000/1470, that will help you a lot more than a 900/1470.</p>
<p>I ended up with a 1560/2280, but I went in with the mentality that I wasn't going to do well on the test. This made me more vigilant, this kept me on my guard and helped me become more aware of the 'tricks' the SAT has.</p>