<p>Hi! I just joined College Confidential seeking any insight on how to improve SAT test scores. </p>
<p>I got a 1750 on my first time around without really any practice. Now, summer of my junior year, I've just signed up to retake the SAT October 11th. I'm not sure what score I'm shooting for, I'm trying to stay realistic, but it would be great to get in the 2000s. I have a GPA o 4.45 weighted but I didn't have much time to study for the SAT during the school year and did poorly (I'm not the best tester to to begin with). I don't want my SAT to put me at a disadvantage (as it is now) because I've worked hard during the year to maintain the GPA. I know need to prepare better for the essay next time but any tips on what books to buy, when to take timed or untimed practice tests and how to get the most out of the one I have (SAT blue book)? I have a lot of time over the summer to improve but I'm not sure where to start. </p>
<p>Critical Reading - Brush up on vocab with Direct Hits and/or Quizlet/flashcards. For passage-based questions, work on some untimed practice. Try to get a majority of the questions correct in the untimed environment. This will improve your confidence and show you that your goal score is within your reach. As you improve your accuracy, go back to timed practice, and see how you do.</p>
<p>Math - Brush up on concepts. Try to work through the sections without timing yourself. If you come across a problem/concept that you are unfamiliar with, go look it up. Check out other threads on this forum for SAT math books. Just like with reading, as you improve your accuracy, go back to timed practice, and see how you do.</p>
<p>Writing - Most of the time, grammar errors can be detected by reading the sentence out loud. Go with your gut feeling; if it doesn’t sound right, it probably isn’t. Perhaps brush up on grammar rules too, if necessary. If your essay score is below 10, look for sample essays published by the College Board and learn the format. Based on their format, develop your own style and formula. Some people say that you need 3 body paragraphs - I would say: just do what feels comfortable for you. I scored a 10 on all three SATs, while using only 2 body paragraphs. Also, make sure that the length of your essay is about 2 pages (slightly less if your handwriting is small). The graders have a limited amount of time to grade your essay - just showing that you can write 2 pages shows that you have a strong grasp of the essay topic.</p>