Underclassmen – 7 Tips for Acing the SAT

1. Test Day Checklist. Get a good night’s sleep before the test. Be sure you arrive at the SAT prepared with the right tools. See TEST DAY CHECKLIST. Be sure to bring a protein snack, a watch, and an approved calculator.

2. Consider Using Score Choice. Consider waiting to send your scores until you see them. You can send them to selected colleges later.

3. Guess. SAT has eliminated the ¼ point deduction for guessing and give you only four answers to choose from- just like the ACT.  Eliminate as many answers as possible, then make a calculated guess. It won’t hurt your score.

4. Brush up on Algebra 1 & 2.  The SAT now emphasizes Algebra, with some Algebra 2 and Trigonometry.  Not much Geometry. The math section includes many word-based problems.

5. Pace Yourself. Remember you have two sections to do: Evidence-based Reading and Writing, and Math. The essay is now at the end of the test. The test is 3 hours 50 minutes, including the essay. It is three hours if you are not doing the essay section.

6. Prepare for an Analytical Essay.  The SAT essay is 50 minutes long, optional, and focused on analyzing content. Gone is the persuasive essay. Prepare to support your analysis in your writing.

7. Relax.  This is just a test. It shows your ability on this Saturday in March. It does not define the rest of your life. You will have a chance to retake it or take the ACT. You have been going to school for over 10 years. You know more than you realize.

Review your testing schedule and keep track of test registrations. Create a folder on your EduPlan portal and add all your spring tests to your testing schedule.

Registration links:

ACT

SAT

Ask at your school about taking a practice SAT or ACT test.