Preparing for the SAT: Frequently Asked Questions

If you are preparing to take the SAT, you may have many questions.  You are not alone.    Continue reading on for a list of commonly asked questions pertaining to the SAT Reasoning Test and their answers.

Question:  Do I need to study?
Answer:  Yes, you should.  With that said, not all need to study for the SAT like a midterm or final exam in high school.  The standard SAT test, known as the SAT Reasoning Test, quizzes your knowledge on the English language and mathematics.  Most students already know this information.  If you paid attention during your high school math and English classes, a daily review your notes and one or two practice SAT tests may be all that you need.

Question:  When should I start studying?
Answer:  The moment you register for the SAT test.  Too many students wait until the last minute to study and prepare for the SAT.  This usually involves a late night cram sessions the night before.  Avoid this at all costs.  You will retain more information by reviewing your notes and doing practice tests at a slow and steady pace.  To do this, you need to start earlier.  In addition, know that a late night cram session can do more harm than good.  What you need the night before is sleep.

Question:  How do I find practice SAT Tests?
Answer:  They are easy to find online.  The Official SAT website, operated by the College Board, gives you one free practice test.  With this test, you print the instructions.  Then, you enter your answers online and get your score.  By registering for the Official SAT Course, through the College Board, you can access to additional tests.  A standard internet search will find more.  Practice SAT tests are also found in many printed study guides.

Question:  What should I look for with a practice SAT test?
Answer:  You want to look for three things.  They are the outline of the test, your strengths, and your weaknesses.  When taking the practice tests, do not rush.  Yes, the real SAT is a timed test.  For your first practice test, do not time yourself.  Take it nice and slow.  What you want to do is carefully read and examine all sections of the SAT.  Familiarize yourself with these sections and their directions.  They will help you the day of the test.  When grading your practice tests, know your strengths and weakness.  Shift most of your focus to improving your weaknesses.

Question:  Should I take an SAT prep course?
Answer:  If you can find one available locally or afford an online class, yes.  Online SAT prep courses are nice, but they tend to be expensive.  You could easily pay $50 for a course.  The good news is that you move at your own pace.  The practice tests, study guides, and so forth are always waiting for you no matter what time of the day.  SAT prep classes offered locally are usually cheaper.  In fact, some school districts offer these courses to their students free of charge.

Question:  Should I buy an SAT study guide?
Answer:  If you do not take an SAT prep course, yes.  A SAT study guide is recommended for students not taking the course.  Most study guides, such as the Barron’s SAT book, have multiple practice tests.  These tests follow the layout of the real SAT.  Good books not only give the answers, but reasoning behind the answers.  Most often, you will find the information covered in an SAT prep course and a printed study guide are the same.

Question:  How should I study?
Answer:  By using a few simple tools.  Although you can simply just review your notes and take a few practice tests, there are additional steps you can take.  If you bought an SAT study guide, use a highlighter to make notes of your weaknesses and what you want to improve.  Do the same with your school notes.  Some portions of the SAT, such as common mathematic equations and vocabulary, can be studied with flashcards.  There are SAT flashcards available for sale, but you can make your own for less than $1 or $2.