<p>So I just back my SAT II results and I did absolutely atrociously on math II and us history. (780 lit, 710 math II, 720 US history)
I'm in the 68th percentile for math II and I know a lot of people say that if you can't get an 800 on math II it's better not to take it.
I was planning on applying to ivies and other highly selective schools; should I retake math II in october, and if so, how should I study for it?
I did minimal studying for the june subject tests because I was feeling cocky and it was the day after school went out for our school.
I tried the barron's book which is notoriously much harder than the actual test, and I didn't really get much help from it.</p>
<p>Also, I'm planning on pursuing a major in english/humanities, so will a low math 2 score still matter a lot, or will it be less scrutinized as a result?
I got an 800 on the math portion of the SAT I, so I just thought a 710 on math 2 for the sat 2 seems a little discontinous; how will colleges perceive this gap?</p>
<p>Thanks in advance for answering my multiple questions :P</p>
<p>It can’t hurt to try again. Besides, considering the fact that you got a 710 on minimal studying and a 800 SAT I Math, you could probably achieve a much higher score.</p>
<p>Just FYI, using the word ‘atrocious’ to describes scores above 700 won’t make you too many friends haha just saying. Those are all fine scores in my opinion. If English is going to be your major, then don’t stress about the Math test, don’t even send it if you think it’s bad. Send your other 2 scores, or just your 780 if where you’re applying doesn’t require 2. Save yourself a Saturday and don’t bother retaking.</p>
<p>NewDivide - thanks, I appreciate that fresh point of view.
Hah I guess “atrocious” would be a fairly dramatic word to describe it in hindsight, but it’s definitely a weak score in comparison with other fellow ivy applicants.
So a weak math 2 score is not seen as harshly for an english/humanities major, even if the school is highly selective?</p>
<p>Are you fine with your reasoning test scores? (And are you applying early?)</p>
<p>I think, personally, that a 780 in lit is more impressive than a 780 in math. Considering the fact tht you’re going into humanities, don’t stress too much about math. However, it seems like, from what you’ve written, that you feel like you can do better. If that’s the case and you’re satisfied with your SATI results - go for it. Retake them. Don’t regret anything, I guess? </p>
<p>I used PR to study for Math II and it covered everything to a pretty optimum level. Not as in-depth as Barrons from what I’ve heard, but enough. Do the book cover to cover and that will at minimum reduce the number of silly mistakes you make. </p>
<p>As for the discontinuity in scores - I have no idea how admissions officers will perceive this.</p>
<p>@726503, I’m happy with my SAT I’s, and yes I think I will apply early action.</p>
<p>Math has never been my strongest subject (which is why I’m going to be an english/humanities major) and I’m actually really reluctant to take up a study book and start studying for standardized tests again because I was so sure I was going to be done and clear of them after june. Basically, I’m looking for any excuse not to retake the subject tests, but I feel like I may have to.</p>
<p>I know I could do better but I’m loathe to studying for another test in october if my score really doesn’t matter too much. So basically I guess my only question now is, does it?</p>
<p>By the way, a 720 in math II isn’t bad even comparative to an 800 in math of the normal SAT. Math II is much harder. However, maybe retaking it once could be an option if you want. It should be up to your choice because honestly 700+ is where I would stop retaking, but if you want to go to a very competitive school it may be a good idea to retake.</p>