When to take SAT

Test Preparation SAT Preparation
21

I strongly disagree with this comment, which is just incorrect.

It really depends on the level of math the student is at when they take the test and there is NO reason why a student can’t improve their math skills for years. Clearly, students major in math in college, and do PhD’s in math, so I’m pretty sure people continue to learn math skills.

And I can 100% confirm that students absolutely improve their reading and writing skills in college. Obviously professors demand improvement in writing skills from high school students once they start college. The kid who got a A on a high school essay might get a C on a college essay. Students have to read more thoroughly and take better notes in college. So no, you don’t just stop learning in 11th grade.

OP, the only thing that is clear is that the PSAT in October
WILL BE in digital format. The March SAT will be digital. If you really want to do well on the SAT in October, you will have chances in November and December to retake, assuming you are in the US.

I’ve seen new SAT questions and IMO, the new test is easier than the old one. So unless you think you can get a great score as a sophomore, I suggest you just wait and take the test as a junior. The tests are VERY different and there is zero point in prepping for both.

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22

Certainly your math skills as they pertain to what’s on the SAT don’t change much after 11th grade. Most kids cover that material earlier than that.

Likewise no rhetorical writing is happening in the SAT – it is all multiple choice. This business of getting As on a high school essay and Cs in college for the same essay don’t apply in this context.

And they may cumulatively read a modest amount in 11th grade, incrementally, in their language or history class.
Not sure why the thought needs to be denounced in such strong emphatic terms with bolded letters.

23

Thanks for the new input. The change to digit really makes the game more complicated. The reason I want to take SAT in August and October in my Junior year: 1) I can focus on other stuff and won’t be distracted by the test after October, 2) I can apply for some Junior summer camps which may need SAT scores. But your input make me hesitate. Maybe I should still keep the original plan to take one paper test to use for the summer camp application, and take another digital one later aiming for higher score if it is really easier than paper test… :thinking: :thinking: :thinking:

24

I think at your level you are really overthinking it. Take the test when it is convenient and see how you do. With you PSAT and math level you will likely be fine with a one and done and not need to think about it again.

1 Like
27

I think it is a good idea to take early rather than waiting till senior year. Students are usually busy with college application process in the final year.

28

It is the perfect time.

29

It would prepare you for PSAT.

30

Leave the next year for essay time- you are going to need it!

31

If you got pre-calc, that is all the math you are going to need.