Top 6 SAT Preparation Tricks and Techniques that you Must Use
You might not know where to begin when it comes to studying for the SAT. Learning about the structure of the test and different methods to alter your technique to improve on each section is a good way to get yourself in gear. In this blog, we’ll provide you a complete list of the top 6 SAT tips you should be following to achieve your highest SAT scores ever. These tips apply to the SAT as a whole, these have to do with how you study in general and how you approach the test.
- Have a Plan for Each Section
Each section of the Reading, Writing, and Language Tests, as well as the two parts of the Math Test, has its own peculiarities. While some tactics can be used throughout tests, you should create ones that are exclusive to each area. Maybe you’re having difficulties staying motivated when you get to the last segment, the Math Test, or maybe you’re having trouble getting ready to begin the test with Reading. We will have some specific advice for each section.
- Reading Test
The SAT Reading Test accounts for 50% of your overall SAT score in the Evidence-Based Reading and Writing part. (The Writing and Language Test accounts for the other half.). This makes the reading test important but not invincible.
- Read the Passage Introductions
Before each paragraph on the SAT, there is an italicized one- or two-sentence introduction. These introductions usually include information on who wrote the passage, when it was written, and where it came from. This background information can assist you in making sense of the passage and answering author-based questions more quickly. It’s also the most important factor in picking which passage to address first.
- Identify the “Rhetoric” Questions
A little less than half of the SAT Reading Test questions are classified as “Rhetoric,” which refers to the structure and development of the text rather than the content of the ideas and information. Many of these are questions are related to the role of different literary elements or the author’s decision. Thus, these questions should be approached differently.
- Writing & Language Test
These tips are certainly focused on the pitfalls students make while attending this section. Working on this as well as the Reading Test can help you improve your Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score.
- Brush up on Grammar
The Writing & Language Test does not just test your grammatical skills, but it does make up a significant percentage of it. The Standard English Conventions sub score is based on 20 questions out of 44, or around 5 questions per paragraph. There are plenty of SAT online practice test which can help brush your grammar, or you can find grammar lessons online.
- Eliminate Wrong Answer Choices
By eliminating answer choice, you know are incorrect for each question will make it easier for you to chose the correct one. This approach should be practiced even when you are taking SAT mock test as that will give you a better sense of the whole practice. Before looking at the answer options for sentence improvement questions, try to identify the error(s). Remove any option that you know does not correct the grammatical error in the original sentence or adds a new one.
- Math Test
This section is divided into four parts: Additional Topics in Math, Problem Solving and Data Analysis, Passport to Advanced Math, and Heart of Algebra. But even before diving into tips and tricks for the math test, you should remember that time management and practice is the key to solve the questions.
- Focus on Filling Content Gaps First
If you have problems with basic math concepts, then no matter how many SAT math practice test you take you won’t be able to improve your math score. Its important to first fill those knowledge gaps. Working on your weak areas is the fastest way to improve your scores drastically.
- Memorize Formulas and Math Facts
Memorize formulas and information for each area covered on the SAT Math section. You are more likely to ‘see’ a solution if you memorize them effectively. If you notice “parallel lines” on the xy coordinate plane, for example, keep in mind that “no solution” and “identical slope” are common answers to this type of question.
- Use Strategies
If you can’t solve a question using math you already know, try employing tactics like choosing numbers or back solving. Picking numbers is a way for converting algebra into arithmetic by replacing variables with numbers that meet the conditions in the question. Whole back solving entails re-entering the answer options into the question to determine which one works. When you’re stuck, these tactics can come in handy and save you time. You can start using these practices while giving SAT mock test to see what runs best for you.
- Essay Tips
The SAT essay demands you to read a difficult, opinion-driven article and write an essay analyzing how the writer attempts to persuade his or her audience. While the passages alter, the directions remain consistent. Although you may not need to worry much about this part as it will be phased out for most students taking the SAT starting in June 2021.
- Analyze and then write
The new SAT essay prompts challenge you to assess an argument given in a paragraph. The graders want to see that you understand the author’s point of view and can write a clear explanation of how he or she comes to that conclusion. You have fifty minutes to write the essay, so spend at least 10-15 minutes making sure you grasp what the author is saying and how you’ll structure your essay based on your analysis.
- Use Specific Evidence
Don’t only describe how the author constructs the argument in your own words; back it up with concrete instances. When you’re reading the chapter for the first time, underline sentences or phrases that demonstrate the author’s persuasive strategies. In your essay, direct quotes should be employed to emphasize the most relevant arguments.
- Some Anxiety is Normal
If you are experiencing any test anxiety even during your SAT preparation, and thinking that your doomed to poor test performance then you should know that some test anxiety is normal. It is a way of your body or mind to react to certain things moreover, it can help you focus and think more rapidly which are both beneficial in a stressful circumstance. Instead of trying to get rid of your worry, take a more balanced approach.
Wrapping it up!
We hope this has provided you with an excellent starting point for your test preparation. While you may absolutely increase your score on your own, working with an expert who can provide you with individualized assistance makes it much easier. You can enroll for a SAT online preparation, as online preparations are more effective than regular test prep courses. You can schedule the classes your own pace, the tutors will provide you in-depth knowledge of all the concepts you can even customized your prep program according to your requirements.