8 efficient tips to cracking SAT!

For the last couple of years, the Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) has been the primary exam for securing undergraduate admissions to universities in countries like the USA, Canada, Australia, and the UK. Students looking to take this exam are often unsure of how to begin their preparations. This blog will go through the most efficient tips for cracking SAT exam to help you get into the college of your dreams. Keep reading!

Understand the test

The key to acing any exam is to first understand the pattern and difficulty level, and context of questions likely to be asked. For example, the SAT mathematics section begins with the easiest problems, which then steadily rise in complexity. Gauging these patterns can help you learn more about attempting those. If you are putting more effort and time into an early question, it’s likely that you may not be doing it right and may want to try a new method or simply practice more such questions. 

Take mock tests

Mock exams are the most effective technique for determining where you stand in your preparations. SAT practice tests are a great way to get attuned to the exam format. Practicing sample questions can help prepare better for the actual exam efficiently. When you solve a practice in one sitting, you also get more confident about managing your time for the actual exam.

Know how to use the punctuation marks properly

Another one of the most efficient tips for cracking SAT is to practice using punctuation marks correctly. Your punctuation skills are gauged on the SAT Writing and Language Test, and you are required to know how to use the basic punctuation marks and their advanced aspects as well. Punctuation marks are frequently misused by students. Learning something as simple as when to use commas or semicolons instead of a colon and when to use an exclamation mark versus a comma can help you score better in this section.

Basic calculations and formulas

Starting from the basics of calculations will help you begin your preparations on the right foot. Instead of shortcuts, start by laying a strong foundation for concepts. Steps such as simple calculating strategies and mental mathematics will become much easier once you get a stronghold of the basics. This is one of the most efficient tips to cracking SAT exam and scoring well in the quantitative section. It is also important to memorize equations and know how to use them well before the final test. Attempting questions multiple times is a great way to recall equations and get faster at solving them.

Find a study partner

Studying along with friends can prove to be quite motivating. When you study alone, you might have doubts which, if not solved in time, can linger till your exams. Therefore, studying in groups can be quite beneficial in keeping accountability and challenging and pushing each other’s limits. For example, if your preparation falls short in arithmetic, a friend who is good at maths can help you.

Time management

Many students find time management a significant issue in acing any exam. Hence to secure your desired exam score, you must be prepared to maintain and follow a proper time management strategy. You can do this by regularly solving mock tests and timing yourself in each section. Analyze what questions consume most of your time and work to do them faster.

Maintain a study schedule

Maintaining a proper study schedule is another imperative and efficient tip to cracking the SAT. A well-planned timetable aids students in ticking multiple boxes for their preparations. Without a timeline, you cannot complete portions promptly, resulting in missed opportunities for review, which happens to be a crucial aspect of the SAT exam preparation. Following a timetable and setting daily goals will allow you to cover all that has to be studied more quickly, giving you time to go back and work on your weaknesses.

Increase your reading speed 

One of the most important SAT reading tips is to plan your practice sessions in such a way that you learn the skill of quick reading. You must practice techniques like skimming that enable you to understand the gist of an article or chapter without going through every word. Set a goal and time yourself while practising. Then you can check whether you have understood the text in your target time.

Key takeaways 

• SAT is a standardized test used for college admissions, assessing students’ skills in reading, writing, and math. It plays a crucial role in the college application process and requires strategic preparation for success.
• Cracking the SAT exam requires a strategic approach and diligent preparation. With proper planning and effective study techniques, you can maximize your chances of achieving a high score. 
• To be well prepared, familiarize yourself with the test format, different sections, question types, time limit, etc. 
• Start preparing well in advance to allow sufficient time for thorough revision. Create a study plan while setting realistic goals.
• Believe in your abilities and maintain a positive attitude throughout your SAT preparation journey. Stay motivated, stay focused, and celebrate your progress along the way. 

Cracking the SAT exam requires a combination of strategic planning, consistent practice, and effective study techniques. Following the above tips can help you maximize your score and get into a good university.

If you need assistance with preparing for study abroad entrance exams, or find the right university for you, reach out to us. We’d be happy to help.

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FAQs

Q1. Can I take the SAT exams after the 12th?

Answer – Yes, you can take the SAT exams after completing your 12th-grade studies.

Q2. What is the age limit for SAT exams?

Answer – There is no minimum age limit set by the authorities to attempt the SAT exam.

Q3. How to improve SAT reading comprehension skills?

Answer – For scoring well in SAT reading comprehension, start by training yourself to identify the main idea of the passage by engaging in active reading. You can do so by highlighting the key points in the passage while reading. Besides, take mock tests to familiarize yourself with the kind of questions asked in exams. It will help you prepare for D-day and ace this section.