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<li><p>You’re definitely right about not using test from the Barrons, Princeton Review, and similar books. The College Board has their own book released (commonly referred to the the blue book, or BB) with 10 practice tests. If you feel you need more books, buy books dedicated to one subject, or just the test in general without emphasis on practice tests. (such as Cracking the SAT). Here is a good thread for discussing SAT books: <a href=“SAT Books? Do not start new threads. Post HERE! - SAT Preparation - College Confidential Forums”>SAT Books? Do not start new threads. Post HERE! - SAT Preparation - College Confidential Forums;
<li><p>It’s not absolutely necessary to know all 5000 words. It could help, but you’re probably better off using that time refining your skills in math or writing. If you do want to learn some of them still, even just to review, a lot of people use the Direct Hits book. I personally like to take the vocab words from previous tests in the blue book that I didn’t know, and make flashcards out of that.</p></li>
<li><p>Most people take the SAT for the first time sometime junior year (16-17 years old), sometimes twice that year. If the PSAT is offered in your area, definitely take that sophomore and/or junior year. It’s a shorter (and slightly less expensive) version of the SAT and offers a fairly reliable estimate of your score without further studying.</p></li>
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