Okay… So the SAT Chemistry Subject Test is a Week from today. I’m currently in AP Chemistry (and doing well), but I’ve only done the first semester so far (we will be finishing thermochemistry this week). My question is will I be able to get a good score (700+) by studying the Barron’s SAT Subject Test Chemistry book from 2009? I took the diagnostic test and scored about a 600 (it was a 640ish but I didn’t take into account the subtraction of 1/4 point for wrong answers). Is the 2009 version good enough to study for the 2015 test? I’ll have access to a 2014 Princeton Review book starting on Tuesday. Do I have a shot at getting above a 700 (preferably a 730)? I’m a dedicated worker and I’ll put a lot of work into it. I plan on reading all of the Barron’s 2009 book today and tomorrow (and make like 10000 flashcards) and then I’ll take some practice tests of Monday. I’m also taking the Math II test, but I’ve taken it once already and got a 700 and now I’ve had a semester of BC Calculus so I feel confident I can get a 730+ on that (right???). Do you think these two goals are doable? Any advice? Thanks so much!!
I think you have a great shot. Just focus and study hard, don’t lose your motivation and concentration. If you got a 700 the first time and have been getting farther into your math skills then you should probably even score a 750 or 800. Best of luck!
Thanks, southernbelle16! Any opinions are welcome and appreciated!
The groundbreaking discoveries of the past 5 years aren’t really the stuff that you’re likely to find in the SAT exam, so I reckon you should be ok. I looked through a lot of books when I was studying and there wasn’t much of a difference between older and newer editions (I think the main reason they print so many new editions is to discourage secondhand sales). You wont find quantum electrodynamics in the 2014 edition, so IMO you shouldn’t worry.
As for how your practice test performances will compare to the real thing: that’ll depend on how you handle exam stress. I hate exams but my school system revolves around mega-exams, so I seemed to step up on test day. I averaged 730-750 on M2, 750-770 on chem and 790-800 on physics in practice tests. Got 800 on all at the actual tests.
My only advice at this point would be to channel the test day adrenaline positively. On one hand it can give you a ton of extra mental stamina, but on the other hand it could just as easily lead to a panic attack. I noted the elapsed time at the 15/25/40/45 (for M2) question marks on my practice tests so I knew my target times. That way, I knew I was on track on test day even if I spent a few extra minutes on a tough question.
Well I got my scores back and I beyond surpassed my goals :D. I only had half a year of AP Chem but I just studied hard the week before using Barrons and Princeton Review and did really well. It is possible!!
@midoge That’s great! How much did you get?