<p>I got a 53 on math on the PSAT. I'm really bad at math. Especially SAT math. One of my problems is that I haven't finished Algebra 2 and Geometry was really hard for me. Fortunately, though, that means I just have a lot of facts I can learn which will probably boost my scores.
Other than that, though, I'm not sure how to get my score higher other than practicing. I use Barron's, and it helps, but I'm not sure if it will be enough. I'd really like to push my math up about 150 points so I can get around a 2200 on the SAT (I'm taking it in May or June). Any tips from people who are smart at math or people who have been through the same thing I am?</p>
<p>For improving on math, it usually comes down to either knowing the content or making silly mistakes. It’s somewhat beneficial to you that you know that A2 / geometry problems are hard for you, as you know that you may not know all of the material needed for the SAT. </p>
<p>What I would do would if I was in your position would be to familiarize yourself with those problems that you struggle yourself with. Once you have done that, take math practice sections and see what you need to improve on, whether it’d still be not knowing the content or making those little mistakes that you can carefully try to iron out.</p>
<p>I would complete as many practice math problems as you can find. (Search this forum for lists of practice tests and of course, use the CB blue book.) Do not time yourself when taking the tests at this stage. Just try to identify which types of problems consistently prove challenging. Once you have become more proficient, return to timing yourself as the timing is an important element. </p>
<p>My son has also used the Testive site. I think it allows him to complete ten questions a day and it adjusts the level of questions it gives you based on your performance. So, as you improve, it will offer questions of increasing difficulty. The site includes a white board explanation of each question so you can immediately learn how to solve problems you do not know. Good luck!</p>
<p>brokenandhealed, </p>
<p>The first thing you need to understand about the Geometry questions on the SAT is that the questions cover a very limited range of Geometry topics. So, if you concentrate on improving a very few skills, you can improve your score significantly. Work on your angle rules, triangle rules, and basic circle rules. Let me recommend that when you get a problem with a diagram, the very first thing you should do is label the diagram with whatever information is given in the question. For example, if the question tells you that side AB measures 7, label side AB. When you are finished labeling the diagram, start adding any information you know. Have the measures of two angles of a triangle, add the measure of the third. You will be surprised how many questions become solvable when you do this.</p>
<p>Thanks so much! I do use Barron’s, but I’ve heard that in some cases, it’s harder than the actual test so substantially that it harms preparation. Is it worth it/cost-effective to get the CB blue book as well?</p>
<p>@brokenandhealed:</p>
<p>Get the Blue Book just for the practice tests at the end alone. (I seriously can’t believe you asked if the Blue Book was worth it or not. :((((((((((((((( )</p>