Should I start preparing?

<p>I'm a freshman in highschool and really want to get a 2400/36. I already took the ACT 7th grade and didn't find it very difficult at all, but I heard the SAT requires alot more prep and covers courses such as trig and precalc/calc that I don't have any background with yet. Would it be good to start now and take it throughout sophomore year and junior year so I can get the highest score possible? or would that look bad?</p>

<p>The SAT math isn’t as advanced as you say. You should be aware that there is a plan to change the format of the SAT in 2016. You may want to consider this when you plan your testing schedule. </p>

<p>As far as just taking the SAT over and over again to get a high score, I wouldn’t. Look around on this site and you’ll find kids who did that who are now posting anxious threads about how bad their many test sittings may look to colleges. If you’re concerned about your SAT performance and want to score extremely high, get a test prep book or two and start working through it. In general, I don’t think it makes sense for most kids to start before the summer after freshman year, but you may want to consider completing your testing before they change the test if the idea of taking a test that is different from the one you’ve been able to prep for bothers you. I’d talk to your parents and counselor about this.</p>

<p>The SAT supposedly only goes up through geometry. It would definitely be helpful though to have had Alg 2. ACT goes up through trig.</p>

<p>There would be no harm in taking some practice (unofficial) tests over the summer a couple of times if you want. Look at where you need improvement and be aware of that as you progress through your sophomore year. If you really feel the need, take the SAT in May or June of your sophomore year, Then once again your junior year and once again your senior year. More than that is unnecessary.</p>

<p>Do as many practice test as possible until you reach a plateau or your target score. Then take the real test. Ideally, you just want to take the test once. You should not plan to take it more than once, but retake it only when necessary. There is no point to waste your time and money. Get it prepared thoroughly and then hit it.</p>