<p>I have taken the SAT quite a few times and managed to raise my Math and Writing scores but my Reading is still low. I have the Black Book and it did not really help me with the Reading. I have read and read many advices and tips on the net but I still think I need more advice on how to prepare better for the Reading section. I need to raise my Reading by at least 200 to reach the 700s. </p>
<p>I would appreciate it if you could give me tips or name of the book you think helps the most.</p>
<p>Brush up on vocab with Direct Hits and/or Quizlet/flashcards. These vocab questions are easily preventable mistakes as long as you master the vocab. For passage-based questions, try to first go through a couple tests without timing yourself. Take all the time you need, but try to get all the questions right. As you improve your accuracy, go back to timed tests and gradually work on timing. </p>
<p>Also, seeing as you’re in the 500s, there is a pretty good chance that you’re zoning out while reading (trust me, this used to happen to me often). The way to get past this is to force yourself to be interested in the topic. I know that another user on this forum (can’t remember who) mentioned that reading the passages in an Australian accent (or in an interesting way) kept her interested, so perhaps try that. Just know: ~90% of the time, the answers are in the passages. Take advantage of untimed practice to figure out where the answers are hidden. As you get used to finding the answers, your speed will gradually improve, as well. </p>
<p>CR Resources:
-Vocab: Direct Hits (book), SAT Vocab Cartoons (book), Quizlet (online), Mindsnacks (found on the Apple App store), Test Your English Vocabulary (Android app - just drills you on vocab with 10 question quizzes; great for on-the-go practice rather than studying)
-Passage Practice: Untimed Blue Book tests, Erica Meltzer’s CR Guide (book)</p>
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