SAT Test Taking Guide

Math Section Strategies:

• If scoring below 800, utilize calculator programs legally allowed by College Board .

• For scores below 700, systematically track every wrong answer in a notebook or iPad, including careless mistakes. This helps identify pattern weaknesses and target specific areas for improvement through platforms like Khan Academy.

• Review all SAT-provided formulas the week before the exam, and ensure complete memorization of basic geometry formulas (cubes, cones, cylinders). Missing fundamentals like surface area calculations results in unnecessary point deductions.

• Treat each mistake like a hole in a boat - identify and "plug" knowledge gaps systematically to improve scores, as the digital SAT tests the same topics with consistent difficulty.

• For module-based testing, pace differently for each module. Module 1 contains easier questions to complete at a steady pace, while Module 2 requires more careful attention.

• If finishing math early (15-20 minutes remaining), use the extra time to completely redo Module 2 questions rather than leaving early - catching a few errors could mean the difference between a 1490 and 1520.

• The math section offers the quickest potential for score improvement since new algebra concepts can typically be learned and mastered in about 15 minutes.

Reading Section Strategies:

• While dramatic overnight improvements are unlikely for lower scores, implementing specific techniques can still boost scores by up to 50 points in a short time frame.

• Always begin by reading the italicized blurb at the top of reading passages for crucial context and answer elimination.

• Combat boring passages by developing a personal connection system - relate content to your own interests or experiences to maintain engagement.

• For challenging passages, especially historical texts, use digital annotation tools to highlight key sentences and make notes to maintain focus.

• Science passages tend to be more approachable as they relate to familiar academic content.

• Prioritize comprehension over speed - good passage understanding allows many questions to be answered within seconds.

• For the 54 questions in 64 minutes format, simple grammar questions can be completed in 15 seconds, allowing more time for complex reading questions.

• Master essential punctuation rules:

  • "Stop punctuation" (periods, semicolons, comma + FANBOYS) links complete ideas

  • "Half stop" punctuation (colons, em dashes) follows complete ideas

  • "Go punctuation" (commas) connects incomplete and complete ideas, separates items in lists, and isolates unnecessary information

• Memorize FANBOYS (For, And, Nor, But, Or, Yet, So) for proper comma usage.

General Test-Taking Strategies:

• With limited digital SAT practice exams available, don't waste them by taking them too early. Space them out strategically, saving some for final preparation.

• Consider using PSAT scores as a benchmark instead of using up a practice exam - PSAT scores translate directly to predicted SAT performance.

• Spend 2-3 weeks learning basic SAT grammar and math fundamentals before taking your first practice exam.

• Always review practice exam mistakes thoroughly - taking tests without analyzing errors won't improve scores.

• Consider hiding the on-screen timer to reduce stress and instead check time at specific milestones - after completing one-third and two-thirds of questions.

• Strategically use the 10-minute break between sections: bring water and specific snacks (like dates or almonds) for quick energy.

• If feeling overwhelmed by other test-takers' conversations, take a brief bathroom break to reset and stretch.

• The night before the exam:

  • Limit practice to 30 minutes of light questions to maintain confidence

  • Consider doing a brief sleep meditation for better rest

  • Pack all materials: pencils, charged calculator, student ID, admission ticket, snacks, and water bottle

• For the digital format's two-module structure, aim to have 5-10 minutes remaining in Module 2 for review.

• Never rush to finish early - there's no benefit to completing the exam ahead of schedule, and it often leads to careless errors.

• Use practice exams exactly as you would take the real test - no pauses or breaks - to build proper testing stamina.

• Arrive early and plan for the entire testing experience to take longer than just the exam time due to administrative procedures.