<p>I've been browsing through this forum for a while now and finally decided to register! I couldn't help but notice that the average SAT I scores are lower than the SAT Subject Test scores? I've taken both, and I found the Subject Tests a lot more difficult. </p>
<p>People on here were comparing scores and it seemed like a majority of you guys scored 700+ and, surprisingly, were disappointed with that score. On the other hand, people who scored a 700+ on their SAT I were quite satisfied.</p>
<p>My SAT Subject Test scores were certainly subpar: 580 literature, 550 Math level 1. However, I scored better on my SAT I.</p>
<p>First, everyone and their uncle takes the SAT. This means that every very smart person in the country, as well as every not so smart person, or moderately smart person takes it. That helps to make for a brutal SAT I curve. For example, missing 1 or 2 questions on the SAT I CR makes for a 790, missing 3 questions on the SAT I M makes for a 730, etc. On the other hand, typically, far fewer people take the SAT II, and those that do are brighter and specialize. This can lead to far more generous curves (miss 6 and get 800 on Math II, miss 13 and get 800 on World History, etc.) This screws the percentiles up. The national percentile for a 700 on the SAT I math is something like 94th percentile, whereas for the Math II, it’s in the region of a measly 65th percentile. </p>
<p>Second, people emphasize their strengths in the SAT IIs. Even if Writing is your thing, and you get an 800 on that SAT I section, you still have to deal with the other two tests. On the other hand, for the SAT II, if you hate physics, you don’t have to take physics. Rather, you can have fun with French, or US History, or Chemistry, or whatever floats your boat. If you are so good at something, and the curve is quite generous, then it is best to get the highest score possible, which means that you simply hold yourself to a higher standard.</p>
<p>It is also much easier to study for the SAT IIs. Studying for the SAT I is a combination of your natural skills, tips and tricks, and grinding practice. The SAT IIs on the other hand, cover specific topics and facts that you can actually study for.</p>