How can I improve my SAT score?
I have been taking practice SAT tests online and so far my scores have been a 1420 (first attempt) and a 1700 (second attempt). As for the category scores:
1st attempt:
Reading- 480
Writing- 600
Math- 340
2nd attempt:
Reading- 580
Writing- 640
Math- 480
So my question to you is; how can I improve my score? I’m obviously not very good at math but decent at writing and reading but I hope to be able to improve on all three subjects before taking the actual test my goal is to get a 2000 or higher which I know is difficult to accomplish but I think with a little work I can achieve my goal so please assist me with techniques on achieving a higher score.
Thanks,
Tyler.
All three answers are extremley helpfull, due to this I am putting the question to vote because I can’t pick one that is decisevly better then the others. Thank you so much to all three of you. =D Protagonist, best of luck with you’r SAT.
3 Responses
nasprincess
08 Feb 2010
DeadLine
08 Feb 2010
First, read whatever prep material you have (the lessons, tips, etc). Then, do as many practice tests you can.
For math, you really need to know your concepts. You have to be able to apply your knowlege, and FAST. The trick is not to run out of time…. and if you have extra time, DEFINITELY review your math answers. If you don’t know how to approach a problem, try substituting your own numbers or the answer choices (a tip I picked up from Princeton Review).
For reading, pick answers that are supported within the passage. And don’t go for minor details; those are oftentimes wrong. Also, study vocab, since vocab will really be a major help especially on the fill-in-the-blanks questions.
And for writing, make sure you know all your grammar rules (ie. verb/noun/pronoun agreements, etc). Also, you can rely on your ear for idioms and such. And for the essay, I think the most important thing about it is the content; you have to pick solid supporting arguments. Make your essay persuasive, and write with correct spelling, grammar, etc. Throw in a few SAT words in the essay too – after all, since you’re taking the time to learn SAT words for the reading section anyway, you might as well use them!
Good luck. Hope I helped!
Protagonist.
08 Feb 2010
First of all, good job on your second time SAT score. I made a 1470 my first attempt and I am aiming for an 1800 or above. I usually make 1750s now a days and I only have 40 days to pull them up D=
Anyways. I say for reading you should just review more vocabulary, get the hit list parade and work on learning those words. Also, it would be better if you can take the practice tests on paper instead of online since it would be more convenient for you. Also for reading, on the long passages, read as you answer the questions. Look at the line references and then read that part of the passage.
For math you just need to practice, that is all that will help and the only thing that will help.
You have the same strengths as me, I am good in reading and writing but I am bad at Math, I usually make 530s and 540s =(
I got an 1880 first time and a 2060 second time. What helped me was actually FEELING prepared. I didn’t learn any new material between the March 07 and May 07 SAT tests, but the difference was that I felt more comfortable. I had been dealing with a lot of things at home, and didn’t have as much time as I wanted to to prepare for the March 07 test. My home situation changed in March, and that allowed me more time to do practice tests. So then I did better in May . .
I’d say you have great potential being that your score went up by 280 points. What I would do is try to narrow down the math topics that you have trouble with. Maybe get a math review book and go through that.
The SAT prep books (I bought a Princeton Review) have great strategies for the critical reading section. I didn’t have any concerns about that section but the strategies they give really make you go through the test more efficiently.
In my school district we’ve been doing writing prompts since about 3rd grade as preparation for standardized tests. I’m sure you’ve been doing these in school to prepare for the HSPA (or w/e test your state may give), and the ones on the SAT aren’t too much different. So put effort into those, and really take in the critiques that your teachers give you. I’m a pretty good writer, but teachers always find something that you can improve on. And even though you may not like to see that you got a 4 on something you feel deserves a 5 or maybe even a 6, it helps you in the end.
Best wishes