Test Prep Resources:
Register for the SAT
Tips for Preparing for the SAT:
Practice Makes Perfect
*Take as many practice tests as you possibly can, including the PSAT.
The SAT category of test-taking is very systematic, so the more you train yourself to take this kind of test, the better you will do.
Build Your Vocabulary
*The single biggest thing you can do to prepare for the test is build your vocabulary. You will more than likely see words on the SAT that you've never seen before. If you build your vocabulary, not only might you prepare yourself for these words, but you may also figure out what an unknown word means by relating it to a word in your expanded vocabulary. Also, reading a lot will help you with your vocabulary as well.
9 Tips for Sat Day
*Get a good night's sleep the night before the test.
It gives your brain the rest it needs so that you can tackle the SAT properly.
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Be sure to eat a good enough breakfast before your test.
Make sure it isn't too heavy, and make sure you don't skip it! You can also bring snacks with you to eat during the short test breaks given, and again, make sure the snack is light and hearty.
* Arrive early
It gives you time to gather yourself and ensure that you have everything you need for the test. This also gives you a chance to go to the bathroom before the test.
* Use the power of elimination on multiple choice questions.
Eliminate the answers that you know are wrong. Then make the best guess you can out of the remaining answers
*Nail the beginning of each section!
The beginning of the sections are usually easier than the end of the sections (not including the reading sections). You really want to get these questions right, since all questions are worth the same amount of points.
* But don't take too long on any question!
Regardless of where the question is, don't spend too much time on a single question. The harder questions at the end may naturally require more time than the easier questions in the beginning, but if you feel like you are stuck on a problem, skip it and come back to it at the end if possible. You do not lose points for answers that you skip.
*The most important parts of the reading sections are the beginning and ends of each paragraph!
While you want to make sure you are taking in the entire story, you need to focus heavily on the beginning and end of each paragraph, as they usually are great indicators of the theme of the story that you will be asked about.
*Use your test booklet as scratch paper to the max!
Whether for math questions, or to take notes while reading paragraphs, or to scratch off incorrect answers in a multiple choice, don't be afraid to tear the test booklet up with no. 2 pencil markings
galore. This move alone could add points to your score and save you from making small mistakes that could hurt your total.
*Your essay will sound better if you disagree with yourself. Sort of.
If you present an opposing view to your thesis (while still not agreeing with it) and then present why you still back your own view, it will make for a well-rounded essay. This is much better than a one-sided editorial (which is what your essay will sound like if you don't present some opposing views).
