If you need to take the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) now or at some point in the future, the time to start preparing is now. The sooner you can start getting ready for the SAT, the more prepared you will be when it comes time to take the test. Too many people put off their studying and preparation until the very last minute. But unfortunately, procrastinating for the SAT usually only generates disappointment.
Give yourself the chance to achieve the success you deserve by preparing in advance for your SAT testing.
Here are 10 tips to help you prepare for and score high on your upcoming SAT:
1 – Learn the School and Registration Deadlines
Chances are, if you are taking the SAT, you are planning to use it for a particular purpose. Many people take the SAT when they are applying for college or for other educational pursuits. Whatever your intent, it will be important for you to find out when the deadlines are. When do your test scores need to be submitted? In addition to locating the school submission deadlines, you will also want to find out the deadlines for registration for the upcoming test dates. Make sure that you write down these deadlines on your calendar so you don’t pass up any opportunities.
2 – Plan Your Timeline
With your deadlines in mind, you are ready to start planning a timeline for your preparation and test taking. It may be helpful for you to set small and long term goals to help you focus your efforts. Plan out precisely when you will take the test and the day you need to register.
3 – Register for the SAT
When the time comes for you to do so, register for the SAT. The registration process is very simple, but it may be helpful for you to start early in case registration takes you longer than you expected.
4 – Learn the Structure of the SAT
When you are ready to begin studying, you may be tempted to study only the facts and subjects that are likely to be found on the test. Although this is important, it is perhaps equally important to also study the actual structure of the SAT. This way, you won’t be alarmed or disappointed when you show up to take the test.
5 – Practice with Older Versions of the SAT
Each year, the questions on the SAT are different. But, many of the topics and the types of questions remain the same. When you consider this fact, it can be very helpful to practice and study for the SAT using older versions of the test. For the best results, try to simulate the testing environment while you practice. This can help you to get a good feel for how you will perform on the SAT and how you can best prepare. The more times you take the test, the more comfortable and confident you will likely start to feel.
6 – Focus on the Basics
On the SAT, you will be tested on a variety of different subjects. Even so, a large portion of the test will more than likely be centered on the basics. Make sure that you take the time to review the fundamental and essential elements in the following subjects:
*Math – Including algebra, geometry, and basic arithmetic
*Language Arts
*Grammar and Vocabulary
*Reading Comprehension
7 – Time Yourself
When you take the SAT, you will be allotted only a certain amount of time to complete the test. With this in mind, it is very important to practice taking the test in a timed environment. Time yourself to practice what you will do when you don’t know how to solve a problem. Remember that each question is worth the same amount of points, no matter how hard a question may be.
8 – Take Breaks
For most people, it can be very difficult to study for longer than an hour or so without taking at least a small break. Unfortunately, if you try to study beyond your mental capacity, you will be far less likely to retain the information. Most experts recommend that you take breaks often with a small walk or a drink of water to help stimulate your brain while you study.
9 – Get A Good Night’s Rest
The night before the exam, put your books away and get to sleep. At this point, it will be much more beneficial for you to be alert and well-rested than to study facts all night.
10 – Have a Good Attitude and Give It Your Best
When you have taken the time to prepare and study, the last thing you can do is to simply do your best. Now is the time for you to keep a good attitude, give it your best effort, and look forward for the results.
About Amber Killmon
