Like any rite of passage, the SAT carries with a great deal of
anticipation, fear, costs, and challenges. Yet taking the SAT test need
not strike terror into your heart or slam your wallet. In fact, a minor
amount of advance planning can dramatically boost your confidence as
well as your test score. While SAT preparation will still require
considerable time and effort, knowing how to prepare will make all the
difference in the world.
THE TOP 5 WAYS TO PREPARE FOR THE SAT
1. KNOW YOUR ENEMY
To keep the SAT from becoming the monster under your bed, you need to
know it as well as the proverbial back of your hand. Study the structure
of the SAT test until you know it in your sleep. The last thing you need
on exam day is to waste time reading the directions or figuring out how
to answer the questions. Make the SAT automatic and you'll eliminate a
great deal of stress.
2. STUDY SMARTER, NOT JUST HARDER
The more time you spend charting out an approach to the SAT test, the
more effective your studying will be. Take into account the amount of
time available—both how many weeks until the test and how many hours you
can devote each week to SAT preparation—and design a study plan that
best fits your situation. Studying smarter means maximizing your
preparation dollar as well: for example, you can take advantage of SAT
Prep Plan's free diagnostic tools; you can also make your own flash
cards, take some SAT practice tests, and sign up for the College Board's
SAT "question of the day."
3. AVOID THE LANDMINES
The SAT test is littered with landmines seeking to lure the unwary
test-taker, including the decoy—the wrong answer most people are likely
to arrive at—and the "best answer" ploy, where true answers are
incorrect ( i.e., not what the question is asking). Knowing the
landmines separates the casual from the serious SAT test-taker.
4. FILL YOUR BAG OF TRICKS
In addition to learning the SAT traps, develop strategies for pacing
yourself and answering various types of questions, as well as for
guessing and eliminating careless mistakes. All of these will maximize
your most valuable SAT resources: time and confidence.
5. T—1: READY FOR LIFTOFF?
Expectant mothers don't wait until the first contraction to plan their
big day: neither should you wait for the last minute to decide how to
spend the final hours before your SAT test. The more attention you give
to such matters as what to bring and how you'll arrange to wake up and
get to the testing center, the more comfortable you'll be when the test
begins.
SAT prep doesn't have to be daunting. By planning ahead and studying
effectively, you'll minimize the headaches and increase your chances of
getting the highest SAT score possible. Keep checking
www.satprepplan.com for articles that will
explore these five SAT tips in greater depth.
Bruce L. Smith is an experienced SAT test prep coach. For SAT test
preparation and SAT practice problems visit
www.satpprepplan.com
