As many of you make final preparations for taking this Saturday’s SAT test, I’d like to share a few simple but important tips on what to do the night before and the morning of the test. You’ve worked hard on your test prep up to this point – now take some time to review some basic, but often overlooked, pre-game strategies.
SAT Test Day — The Night Before and the Morning of the Exam (transcript)
My students often ask me for last minute advice on what to do the night before the exam and the morning of the exam. Here’s what I tell them:
After dinner, collect the things you’ll need on test day:
1) Your SAT Admission Ticket
2) Your Student ID or Driver’s License
3) Several #2 Pencils (with good erasers!)
4) Calculator
5) Watch or other timepiece
6) A good snack! (the test is very long; you will need a snack)
You may also want to decide what clothes you’re going to wear on test day. Remember to dress in layers, because you can’t control the temperature. The SAT test room will most likely be either warmer or colder than you would prefer.
After you have collected your things, be sure to relax! Watch a movie, talk to a friend on the phone, or go out for a walk. Do something to take your mind off the test.
Here’s my advice on bedtime: if you’re in the habit of going to bed around 11 o’clock, don’t go to bed at 8 o’clock the night before the SAT test. If you’re anything like me, you’re going to wind up starring at the ceiling for hours feeling frustrated. Rather, you should aim to go to bed about 1 hour before you normally would on a school night. Also, remember to set you alarm early enough so that you comfortably have time to get ready for the exam. You don’t want to create a time pressure situation for yourself. There’s going to be enough pressure during the actual SAT exam.
The Final Step:
In the morning, you should remember to Check Your Brain!
After breakfast, take out a test prep book and do the first two questions of each of the three sections. After a few easy math, writing, and sentence completion problems, you’ll realize your brain is still working and everything is going to be OK. Don’t check the answers….just do the problems. I don’t think the first problems you do on test day should be the real ones on the SAT exam.
Hopefully this advice will help you maximize your SAT test score. Good luck, and remember to stay positive!
Karl Schellscheidt
ePrep
www.eprep.com
Copyright 2006 — All Rights Reserved, ePrep, Inc.
November 1st, 2006 at 10:22 pm
I actually took your advice and did a couple of problems the morning of the PSAT. I have to say, I think it did calm my nerves a bit.
March 27th, 2007 at 5:05 pm
This is great advice. Relaxation and preparation are key.
For my final SAT, I also weaned myself off of caffeine (on which I had developed a dependency) the week before the test, then drank some caffeine before the test. My reasoning was that people who are addicted to caffeine have often developed a tolerance, meaning that they require more caffeine to give them that “edge” than they did before. I figured that by breaking my tolerance for it, then having it the morning of the test, I would be extra-alert that morning. A bit extreme, maybe, but it worked for me.
March 27th, 2007 at 11:24 pm
Thanks for the added advice, Sarah. FYI: I didn’t start drinking coffee until after college, and now I have a hard time getting started in the morning without a steaming cup. By the way, if I were taking a long test like the SAT, I would be careful not to drink too much of anything to avoid the need for frequent trips to the bathroom — but that’s just me.
April 28th, 2007 at 2:42 pm
i failed the sat because i did not try
May 3rd, 2007 at 5:00 pm
Thanks so much for the tips! I think they’ll be a great help.
I have to take my first SAT this saturday – I’ve only got one shot at it. I’ll be going to college in sept (assuming I pass the SAT). I’ve been doing a lot of practice exams under exam conditions (a full 3-4 hours at a time), and reading these tips on the site.
Something I was just wondering about, different books and website say that there will be a break between each section (only like 5 min) and others say there will be just one 5 or 10 min break midway through… other materials don’t mention breaks at all… Are there breaks? if so, how long, and how many?
Thanks so much!
Derrick
(Canada)
May 3rd, 2007 at 8:44 pm
Derrick,
You are entitled to a break after each our of testing. The breaks are usually between 5 and 10 minutes long, depending on the proctor. You are permitted to have snacks during your breaks.
Good luck on Saturday.
Karl
May 4th, 2007 at 11:14 pm
Thanks so much for the info! as well as all the other tips…
I think I’m much more prepared than I would have been if I hadn’t seen your website. Keep up the good work!
Derrick
May 6th, 2007 at 12:13 am
Thanks, Derrick. I really appreciate your kind words. Send me an update when you get a chance. –Karl
May 8th, 2007 at 8:03 pm
Okay, so I did the SAT and it was easier than I’d thought it would be…
I was able to finish each Math section with about 2 minutes to spare, the Critical Reading sections with about 7-8 minutes to spare, and the Writing sections with about 3-4 minutes to spare, which is better than most of my practice tests.
I figured out during the test that the testing section was a math section, but I wasn’t sure until I looked at the test organization on the SAT website which section it was…
I was using the “Video Aided Instruction” SAT prep videos to prepare, and then in the last week I found this site. The videos gave me the foundation, but this site answered a lot of “on-the-side” questions I had, and gave me some great tips that I think really helped. Like doing those practice questions after breakfast, and I also had a quick review of my math notes from the Video Aided Instruction video… I think that really helped. Thanks so much!
Derrick
P.S. I think you’re doing a great job with this website. I went into the test feeling prepared and perhaps more importantly, (I think) feeling confident that a) I knew what was going to happen and how it would happen, and b) I knew how to tackle the test, and to relax, focus, and concentrate. I wouldn’t have been nearly as confident or prepared as I was if I hadn’t come to this site. Thanks so much!
Keep it up!
May 24th, 2007 at 12:40 pm
Well, here’s the final update: I was finally able to log on and view my scores. I got the following marks:
Section Score National Percentile
Critical Reading 690 94%
Math 590 71%
Writing 650 90%
Multiple Choice 66
Essay 8
this adds up for a total overall score of: 1930, if I understand it correctly.
Thanks again for all your help! You’re doing a great job!
Derrick
May 24th, 2007 at 1:29 pm
Hey Derrick..
You got a very high score on the CR section. I’ve been working very hard to improve my score in that area. I’ve come a long way in the writing and math sections, but the reading is where I need desperate improvement.
Can you pass on some quick pointers since 690 is an amazing score.
You got a 590 in math, the one section that can be boosted in a matter of weeks. So do that..
Your pointers would be much appreciated.
Thanks.
May 24th, 2007 at 9:22 pm
Great job, Derrick. Your scores look good. If you decide to take it again, I am sure you can bump your math up without too much difficulty. If you decide not to take it again, I think you will do well with what you have now. Good luck.
May 26th, 2007 at 1:12 am
Hi Arad,
Perhaps one of the reasons that I did well in the CR section is the fact that I’ve always had a knack for English… but I used a few strategies that may help…
For the fill in the blank questions, I use process of elimination: just cross out the ones I _know_ are not right, and pick from the rest. (If you know your prefixes and suffixes it helps!)
For the short passage questions, I quickly scan the questions, (not the answers) then read the whole passage, answering the line-reference questions first and then the global questions (the ones asking about themes and author’s opinions, etc)
For the longer passage questions, I would again quickly scan the questions (not the answers – I found that if I read some of the answers it would put me off track – especially with the global questions) then for all the line reference questions, go the the passage and mark the line (you get pretty fast at it with practice).
Then I’d go and read the passage through entirely. I find that for myself, alternatively reading in segments and answering questions would distract me from the main point in the passage, and I would have trouble with the global questions.
(One variation would be to read until you get to one of your marks indicating a line-reference question, quickly answer it and continue reading. I didn’t find this as helpful as just reading the passage as a whole.)
After reading the passage, I would then go and quickly knock off the line-reference questions. Afterwards I would tackle the global questions dealing with the author’s intentions, or “most-likely agree with” questions, etc. One thing to note is the time you spend on these global questions – I’m a debater type, and on the practice exams I would frequently catch myself debating one answer over another in my head. I found that usually after a quick, focused consideration, my first impulse was the correct one. (again, reading the passage as a whole thing really helps here – especially with the long passages)
Hope this helps!
Derrick
May 26th, 2007 at 10:25 am
Derrick,
I think your advice is pretty solid. Thank you for sharing your thoughts. I just wanted to add that sometimes I try skipping the longer passages entirely. I go right to the questions that have line references. Once I have done them all, I try to answer the global questions. Anyway, it seems to work for me.
October 17th, 2007 at 8:18 am
Hey Guys,
I’m taking the PSAT today and I feel like I’m going to fail. My cranium just isn’t good at scholastic stuff. Wish me luck!
Jimmy in Manhattan
October 17th, 2007 at 11:27 am
Good luck, Jimmy.
January 25th, 2008 at 11:18 pm
this website is amazing! taking first SAT in the morning! A bit nervous…since I didnt know I was ddoing it this early untill about 2 weeks ago..So I’m pretty much just going in to take a chance at it and see how I do. I’ve been preparing for it for a while, so I should be okay. But I’ll come back and tell you guys some techniques I thought were helpful! What a great site!!
January 27th, 2008 at 3:55 pm
Junior,
I trust all went well on Saturday. Thanks for the kind words about the site. Hope to hear from you soon.
February 27th, 2008 at 7:10 am
im taking it saturday… i need a 1900
February 27th, 2008 at 8:13 am
Good luck, Todd. If you haven’t already tried “ePrepping” for the SAT, you may want to sign up for and do ePrep Express. It’s free and can be completed before Saturday. Again, good luck.
October 3rd, 2008 at 8:17 pm
Thank you for all of the advice. I have used your website, and found your answer explanations very helpful. After I watched your lessons, I took practice tests and began to get a feel for the more difficult questions. Although I am scoring in my desired range on practice tests, I am a little nervous that my actual SAT scores will be a little lower..I don’t know why..
Thanks for everything
October 3rd, 2008 at 8:54 pm
Hey,
I am taking the SAT for the first time tomarrow, I think right
now I have practiced the most on my math and essay portions. I have read
many essays in the OFFICIAL SAT STUDY GUIDE. Hopefully this will
help me. Does anyone have any last minute pointers to give me. I think
I am adequately prepared. Though I do understand that my decision to
prepare only 3 weeks before was probably not a well thought out
decision, I think with a well balanced breakfeast and a clear mind
I will do well. The advise on this website has helped me a colossal
amount. Please keep the advise comming and thank you so much. You
have no idea how much you have benefitted me. Thanks!
Jessie
November 1st, 2008 at 5:48 am
Hey guys, don’t worry too much about the SAT. The questions on there are mostly questions you’ve already had in school for years.
I got a 2240 and I didn’t really study… so don’t worry. I mean, study if you’re worried because obviously studying will help, but it’s not too bad.
CR: 770
M: 730
W: 740
January 21st, 2009 at 6:07 pm
this is great reading. I’m taking the test a couple of years early to see how I’ll do. I’m not in high school yet. I’ve been studying for the math part because that I can actually learn but I really havn’t done much to improve my verbal scores. I do okay on the reading passages but the vocab I find nearly impossible.
Does anyone have any advise for me?
January 21st, 2009 at 7:12 pm
Nick,
Don’t worry. You’re young and colleges will never see your scores. Just relax and do the best you can. Use the results to guide your future preparation efforts. Good luck.
January 21st, 2009 at 7:26 pm
Karl,
thanks for the advise. I just came back from a math study group with a few friends. I feel pretty confident that I’ll do okay on math sections. I’m only in 7th grade and I’ve been told if I score over 500 on each section that’s a good score for someone in my grade. I am also part of the st hopkins talent search.
January 22nd, 2009 at 8:28 am
Nick,
Let me know how it goes. Again, good luck.
January 22nd, 2009 at 8:50 pm
I just found out my best friend isn’t taking the SAT on Saturday. He’s going to wait until he’s in high school. We were planning on going together. I wonder how many other kids my age will be there. I’m 12. I’m a bit nervous.
January 23rd, 2009 at 8:09 am
Nick,
You have nothing to lose. Try not to get anxious. It’s the high school students who should be nervous. Every teenager who sees you on Saturday is going to assume that you are some kind of genius or child prodigy. Enjoy it.
January 23rd, 2009 at 5:07 pm
Good luck nick! ill be taking it with u. enjoy it as your only in 7th grade…for us juniors, its a bit more stressful. though the new policy allows u to erase your bad scores so colleges cant see them. no pressure! have fun with it! good luck to everyone taking it tomrrow!
January 23rd, 2009 at 6:01 pm
thanks for the nice advice. I’m sure it’ll help me. I feel a bit better today and am actually excited to take the test. Let me know how it goes Sara.
January 23rd, 2009 at 6:10 pm
thanks for the advice and good luck to you too. I feel a bit better today and am excited about taking it tomorrow.
January 24th, 2009 at 4:24 pm
So how did the test go Sara?
I thought it went very well. I think I did great on the math. I finished each section with time to spare and had time to check my answers. One question I didn’t spend any time on though because it would have taken me forever. I think my math score will be very good. The reading passages were boring. I had to tap myself on the head to stay awake. I think I did good on the essay. But I ran out of time and had to hurry on the conclusion. I was able to think of lots of examples. The vocab was impossible!
March 13th, 2009 at 9:30 am
[...] SAT Test Day: The Night Before and Morning Of Real SAT Stories: Second Guessing on the SAT SAT Directions: Optimize Your Time on Test Day When to Guess on the SAT Writing Section When to Guess on the SAT Critical Reading Section When to Guess on the SAT Math Section SAT Sentence Completion Questions: When to Guess? Don’t Blame the Chicken Pox for SAT Math Mistakes Approach to SAT Math Problems Habeus Answer, or Show Yourself the Answer! Mastering Your SAT Test Weaknesses SAT Questions…Easiest to Hardest Autopilot – Don’t Set a Course for a Lower SAT Score A Lesson from a Course in Wills, Trusts and Estates Bubbling: Avoid Mistakes in Your Answer Key Please Put Down Your Pencil! The Dreaded SAT Experimental Section [...]
March 13th, 2009 at 6:29 pm
So, tomorrow is the big day, again.
I took the test once in January.
CR: 540
M: 760
W: 650
If I get a good test, I can get an 800 on Math.
I can probably push my Writing score to the 700 mark, + or – 20 points.
Critical Reading, I can’t say. I do practice tests, always get
between a 600-680, but vocab is my weakest area. I will walk
into the test open it up, not understand the vocab for two or
three questions and get upset at myself for the reading passages.
What should I do differently?
Should I do the vocab last? or what?
Any advice on how to improve my CR score is welcomed.
Thanks.
March 13th, 2009 at 6:54 pm
Jason, Definitely do the vocab last. Otherwise, just relax and try your best. It will all be okay in the end. Trust me. Good luck.
March 14th, 2009 at 8:33 am
Hey guys so I filiund this website and I’m really glad I did. I’m taking my first sat this morning and I’m freaking out PSATs were really good but there’s something about the rea ltest that freaks me out . Wish me luck!!! And thanks guys!!!
March 14th, 2009 at 9:45 am
Cynthia, Good luck.
May 1st, 2009 at 1:56 pm
hey. thanks so much for this. i have no even considered trying a few problems in the morning, but it sounds like a good idea. i take the SATs tomorrow and hopefully your advice works.
i was going to go to bed at like 6 p.m. so im not tired (LOL) but and hour earlier prob is a better idea.
thanks again
November 29th, 2009 at 5:09 pm
Hi,
I’ve been taking Kaplan practice tests for about a week now. My score has already increased by 180 points from when i took a practice test in October. I’m doing pretty well, with my CW being really high, but I need help on the Math portion. I’m getting around a 600, and need to get atleast a 750. What do I do? I’m taking the SAT’s next Saturday, on the 5th.
December 1st, 2009 at 8:17 am
Anxiety,
Just keep practicing. It will make a difference. Trust me.
Every wrong answer on a practice test is a learning opportunity. It is not important how well you do on the practice tests; your performance on test day is the only one that counts. Keep this in mind as you practice.
Good luck.
December 3rd, 2009 at 1:09 pm
Hello,
I’m currently having a nervous breakdown from my SAT exam, which is after 1 day, 5th of DECEMBER, and I can’t think about anything else. I want to achieve a high score. However,, I feel that I will be so nervous that I will not be able to concentrate.
I want to ask, that do u get higher on the practice test, or on the real thing
I got a maximum score of 1700 in the Practice test, but I’m aiming to
get 2000 on the real thing
Is it possible??
December 3rd, 2009 at 5:38 pm
Faris,
Some students do better on the real test, and some don’t. Being a bit nervous is not a bad thing. Just go in and try your best. You will be able to concentrate once you calm down. Remember, the essay is first, and, after that, all sections will begin with the easiest questions first.
It is certainly possible to go from a 1700 in practice to a 2000 on the real test. This is much better than going from a 2000 in practice to a 1700 on the real test.
Good luck.
December 5th, 2009 at 6:54 am
Help, Help, Help!!! I’m a 7th grader, taking the SAT today I’m freaking out. I only had about 2 weeks to prepare! I don’t know what to do! wish me luck!
December 5th, 2009 at 10:21 am
Good luck, Maya. You really have nothing to worry about. Try your best and I’m sure your parents will be happy.
December 5th, 2009 at 6:38 pm
Thanks, Karl! So, I took it…I’m pretty sure I got ok scores…do the 7th graders take a different test then the 11/12th graders? Because apart from some math and vocabulary, the SAT was not as hard as I thought it would be. Clearly, I am overconfident. Usually when this happens, I get bad scores….I’ll post my scores here when I get them, probably. Good luck to all you Duke TIP program students who get freaked out like me!!!
December 7th, 2009 at 8:38 am
Maya,
You took the same test as everyone else. No doubt. Please post a comment when you get your scores.
January 4th, 2010 at 6:45 pm
Ok. Ok. Breathe, Maya, Breathe. I did surprisingly well, all things considered.
Grade: 7
Critical Reading: 600 (I scored higher then 79% of last year’s group of college-bound seniors)
Math: 500 (45% higher)
Writing: 570 (74% higher)
Multiple Choice: 59
Essay: 07
Is that good? I’m happy!! except for math…i’m not great at math. that’s ok, though. Hey, how do you find your essay online?
January 18th, 2010 at 10:06 am
Hi, I took the SAT on December 5th for the first time and I got the following scores:
CR: 740 (Nat. %: 98) M:710 (Nat. %:94) W: 710 (Nat. %: 96) (Total: 2160)
I’m a junior and I am seeking admission in MIT or UPenn with an
intended major of Chemical Engineering. I’ve heard that the preferred SAT score for UPenn is at least a 2200.I am aiming for something above a 2300 on the March SAT just
to be safe. I was wondering how much improvement is typical of a student
with a similar score to mine. I wasn’t sick or anything on Dec 5.
On a previous post, you said that the test taking pool of December is usually of a lower caliber than the test taking pool of March so that the curve is more generous. Will that curve
make a significant difference, or is it too insignificant to worry about?
January 18th, 2010 at 2:34 pm
Maya,
Great job! I think all of your scores are awesome. You have a very bright future. Your online score report should include access to a scanned version of your essay.
January 18th, 2010 at 3:13 pm
Maria,
I wouldn’t think too much about curves. You are clearly a good student and, if you prepare well for the SAT in March, you will break 2200 and perhaps even 2300. You simply need to put yourself in the right study environment. As many times as you can before test day, you should (1) practice under simulated (i.e. timed) conditions, (2) grade your practice section, and (3) immediately launch into a review of the questions you missed. You can do this with friends, a tutor, or an ePrep program. Good luck.
January 22nd, 2010 at 1:45 am
Thanks for the tip on not going to bed too early. tomorrow is my SAT and I WON’T force myself to bed earlier than I need to
THANK YOU!
January 22nd, 2010 at 1:52 am
I’m a little nervy after reading all the other comments… on my practices I average a total of 2220-2380… but can I get that tomorrow???
January 22nd, 2010 at 8:49 am
Mslee,
You can absolutely score within your target range tomorrow. Just make sure you are well rested and eat a good breakfast. Good luck.
January 22nd, 2010 at 6:25 pm
UGH I’m SO SCARED…I have the SAT tomorrow and I’m doing some questions.
How much is the usual subtraction from practice tests? I average
1900-2190 on practice tests, 12 years old. Do you think I’ll get lower than that?
January 22nd, 2010 at 7:34 pm
Thanks for the tips, it will really help. Im doing the Duke TIP
thing. Im in 7th grade and Im taking the SAT tomorrow.
Everyone says its really hard and long. Im kinda scared not
only from the test but I think its gonna be intimidating to
be there with lots of high schoolers, but thanks to you im not
so worried about the test. Everyone said it will be good
experience even if I dont do so good.
January 22nd, 2010 at 10:56 pm
I’m taking the SAT tomorrow and am really freaking out…you can get more than two tries on the SAT right? It seems kind of intimidating but after reading the comments here, I’m not the only one that feels that way, I guess that gives me some reassurance.
January 23rd, 2010 at 9:41 am
Ray,
I don’t think you’ll score lower than your average range. Good luck. Please let me know how it goes.
January 23rd, 2010 at 9:43 am
Samantha,
Good luck. Please let me know how it goes. By the way, I think the high school students taking the SAT will be equally freaked out by having a 7th grader in the testing room with them.
January 23rd, 2010 at 9:44 am
Samira,
Don’t stress too much. You have as many tries as you need. Good luck. Please let me know how it goes.
June 4th, 2010 at 11:03 pm
Hi, I am taking the SAT tomorrow morning and am kinda freakin’ out about the essay… I don’t do very well when
it comes to writing at all and was wondering if you guys have any tips whatsoever for the essay section. Whether I have a whole month or just a couple of minutes to write an essay, I don’t do my best because mostly of my lack of knowledge of the topic question. I know once I get through that part though, the rest of the test will be easier, so
that’s why I am asking. What website other than the original would you recommend for the practice problems for the
morning beforehand?
June 6th, 2010 at 8:13 am
Echo,
Sorry I’m getting to your comment only now. There are a few video posts in the “essay” category of this blog site. Please watch the videos sometime before your next SAT. I think they will help. Once you understand how the essay is graded, you’ll realized that specific knowledge on the essay topic is not required. Good luck.
October 8th, 2010 at 12:57 pm
Basically, I am very nervous. i take the SATs tomorrow. And I haven’t really been studying. I started monday. But I have this theory, that we have been studying our whole school career for this. I am basically just reviewing math formulas, and have been reading some tough liturature this summer. I plan on taking the SAT’s again. I’m a senior this year. And I will be studying before my next test. But I am quite nervous for tomorrow…. Any advice?
October 8th, 2010 at 6:35 pm
Not Ready,
Just relax and try your best. Remember that you are a senior and that you are capable of much more now than you were even just 6 months ago.
You are a senior and this is your time. Good luck.
October 15th, 2010 at 6:33 pm
Well im taking the PSAT’s tomorrow but I’m wondering i should
study at all the night before. Do a few practice sections, take
an entire test, or nothing at all? Any advice would be great!
October 26th, 2010 at 7:27 am
Soham,
Sorry I missed your comment the night before the PSAT. I hope the test went well.
November 6th, 2010 at 7:16 pm
I’m taking the sat tomorrow, and I’m pretty nervous. I took Princeton review classes and averaged about a 2100. Is it true that they make those tests harder than the real thing? Also, here is a tip for writing the essay: If you research three big topics before the test and get specifics down in your head, you can manipulate them to fit any essay question and prompt. This way, you don’t stress during the test over what to write.
Thanks!
November 9th, 2010 at 12:10 pm
Tzvi,
Princeton Review practice tests contain many questions that are inappropriately difficult and many that are inappropriately easy. Thus, it is hard from me to give an opinion on how I think PR practice tests compare to real SAT tests. (I have a PR book in my office that a student left behind. It contains a few practice sections that do not have the correct number of questions and a few that do not have the correct ordering of problem types!)
Sorry for the delay in responding. I was away over the weekend. Good luck.
December 27th, 2010 at 11:15 pm
Hi all,
I signed up for the January 22, 2011 SAT, I am a sophomore. I
took the PSAT and made a 160 (CR:49,M:57,W54), although when I
took this test I wasn’t trying too hard and bubbled a couple
wrong on math. I have since been reading books for pleasure to
help with the CR and with practice tests have already improved
my writing to a 640. I think that my level right now is around
a ~1700-1750. I really want to improve in math and CR.
I think that I can improve CR with Derrick’s tips, but I need
tips for math!
December 28th, 2010 at 1:42 pm
JD Cool,
In order to increase your math score, you’ll need to do two things: (1) in the long term, pay attention in your high school math classes and complete your work diligently, and (2) in the short term and long term, take as many practice SAT tests as you can.
If you have time, you may also want to watch some of ePrep’s math video blogs. You can access them by selecting “Math” under the “Categories” heading on the right side of this web page.
Good luck.
December 28th, 2010 at 9:23 pm
Thanks Karl, I should have actually tried on the PSAT, as it
would have been a great indicator of the areas where I need
to study. I always get top marks in my mathematics classes so I
was surprised when I wasn’t too good at the mathematics section
of the SAT. I guess it’s like you said in one of the demo videos
,”You actually need to apply what you’ve done in math classes here.”
I guess I’m not good at the applications part of it. At least I’m
a sophomore and have some time for improvement.
January 12th, 2011 at 12:27 am
Hi there,
Thanks for the great information provided here, I’ll be sure to use these tips on test day. I’m taking the SAT for the first time this month, so I’m a little worried. I’ve taken a few practice exams, but I’m not sure if I’ll be able to score as well on the real thing.
My scores have been between:
720-800 for the writing section (10-12 on the essay – I’m worried about this the most)
690-750 for the critical reading section
560-630 for the math section :/
realize I need to improve my math before the test…[@JD Cool - I'm the same way, I thought math was one of my strongest subjects yet I scored badly on the actual test]
I’m homeschooled so I’m a bit out of the loop. Do I need a parent with me on test day or can I just show up by myself?
Thanks again for the help.
January 14th, 2011 at 9:43 am
Wired,
You don’t need a parent with you on test day. You need your admission ticket, an ID, pencils, and a calculator. A watch is optional, but recommended.
The people who administer the SAT expect to greet a bunch of nervous and confused teenagers on the morning of the test. Don’t worry; they know what to do. Just show up on time and they will take care of the rest.
Good luck.
January 19th, 2011 at 9:14 am
Hi, Im taking the SAT’s for the first time in two days and I haven’t really prepared at all since I decided to give it 3 weeks back.
I’ll be giving it again in 5-6 months but Im still really nervous Ill do horriblt in this one.
Any last minitue suggestions will be really helpful!
January 19th, 2011 at 9:44 am
Saumya,
You have nothing to worry about. Simply show up on Saturday and try your best. The experience will be helpful for when you take the test again, and the results will offer you a baseline from which to measure improvement.
Good luck. You really have nothing to be nervous about.
January 20th, 2011 at 11:50 am
hi everyone…im taking the SAT for the first time on 22nd JAN..i am really good at the maths and the writing sections but horrible at the critical reading..any help on what to study for the critical reading 2 days before the exam?????
January 21st, 2011 at 3:28 pm
Shaiz,
Try approaching the long CR passages as a series of short passages: Read the first paragraph and then answer the questions that related to it, read the second paragraph and answer the questions that relate to it, etc. Answer the general questions, like tone and main point, last.
Good luck.
January 21st, 2011 at 5:50 pm
Dear Karl,
I am a junior and I have been prepping for the SATs for a while, since around May of 2010. I am taking the test tomorrow morning, and am excited and nervous. I like your idea of doing a couple of practice questions the morning before, but i was considering writing a practice essay too. is this a bad idea? will it stress me too much?
i have been doing well in the multiple choice areas, but the essay tends to either bring me down (with an
or, recently, no change.
my predicted ranges,
CR: 700-770
Math: 750-800 (but i think i can get the 800, ive done it in full time practifce tests)
Writing: 690-750 (essay:8 or 9)
this is my first real SAT, but i have taken about 5 practice full length tests.
also should i study vocab tonight? thanks!
January 21st, 2011 at 5:51 pm
P.S. my college goals are Princeton, MIT, or Stanford… majoring in chemical engineering and minoring in applied mathematics.
January 21st, 2011 at 6:14 pm
Rachel,
Don’t bother with an essay this evening. Relax. Nothing you do tonight, except relaxing, will make a difference in how you perform tomorrow. It sounds like you are poised to crush the SAT!
Good luck.
By the way, because colleges tend to have trouble recruiting women for majors like chemical engineering, you should be in pretty good shape at Princeton, MIT, and Stanford.
January 21st, 2011 at 6:23 pm
Thanks for responding so fast!
one last question,
when i have extra time left over in sections, what should i do? I obviously go back to the ones i was iffy about, but should i lookover the ones at the end of each problem types as well?
January 25th, 2011 at 8:36 am
Rachel,
Sorry I didn’t get to your follow-up question on Friday.
I always tell student to keep checking a rechecking until they are told to put their pencils down. There is plenty of time to relax after the test.
I hope the test went well on Saturday.
February 27th, 2011 at 8:29 am
Here are my january scores:
800 ma
520 cr
480 wr.
I want to apply to george washington. Is it enough?
March 1st, 2011 at 9:40 am
Jaoseph,
I assume you will be applying to GW as an international student. Will you be submitting a TOEFL score? I ask because your CR and Writing scores are low for GW.
March 11th, 2011 at 7:41 pm
So I take the SAT for the second time tomorrow- took it in December and was fairly happy with my scores, considering it was only the first time I’d taken them.
600- Writing
630- Math
600- CR
I’ve heard that it’s good if your scores are all generally around the same number- is that true? I really want to get into Georgetown (I’m currently a junior). Which scores should I really focus on improving the most? I plan to take them again in October and maybe December depending on how well I do. I love all of the advice. Keep it up!
March 11th, 2011 at 7:42 pm
oops I messed up the scores
600- Math
630- writing
March 11th, 2011 at 7:45 pm
Also, sorry last question, but do you think it would be beneficial if I exercised before the test? Not like really intense exercise, but maybe a jog?
March 11th, 2011 at 11:35 pm
I’m taking the SAT tomorrow too, and I’m super nervous…
if i don’t do well, then should I retake it June or October?
ahhhhhhh
March 17th, 2011 at 4:47 pm
Sarah,
Having subject scores in the same range indicates that you are a well-rounded student and that is a good thing. You should definitely spend most of your time practice for Math and Writing. Each of those scores is easier to improve than the CR score.
A relaxing jog sounds like a good idea, assuming that you jog for your health and enjoyment regularly. (If you don’t jog regularly, you might wind up being sore on test day, which is not a good thing.
Good luck.
March 17th, 2011 at 4:49 pm
Anne,
Don’t stress about your March scores. You can take the SAT again in June, October, or both. Score choice allows you to choose which scores school ultimately see.
Good luck.
April 5th, 2011 at 3:25 pm
Hey Karl, It’t Rachel from before…
I ended up getting a total score of a 2200 on the January SAT, with a 680 in math, so i decided to retake.
Breakdown:
730 CR
680 M
790 W (10 Essay)
In March i did much better, total score of 2350, with an 800 in math,
Breakdown:
780 CR
800 M
770 W (10 Essay)
April 6th, 2011 at 7:42 am
Great job, Rachel. Thanks for the update. You are an academic rock star!
April 21st, 2011 at 9:25 am
hi karl, i got a test after easter holidays and i’ve got less
than 2 weeks to revise all the core subjects. im struggling
with science cause i find it diffucult and don’t know what
to do?
April 23rd, 2011 at 8:07 am
Emma,
I assume you are talking about ACT Science. I find that most students struggle with time management when taking the Science Test. I suggest you quickly skim the passage and then go to the questions. 90% of the information in the passage is not necessary to answer the questions. Thus, you shouldn’t spend too much time reading and trying to understand the passage the first time through — just try to get a feel for what it’s about and where information is located. When you get to the questions, you’ll simply refer back to the text and get the detail you need.
Good luck.
June 3rd, 2011 at 3:15 pm
hey im in 7th grade and i have the SATs tomorrow! Any suggestions on what to do in preparation? And if you have any tips on cr theme or infering questions, i would like them a lot! Thanks.
June 3rd, 2011 at 3:38 pm
Hey Chris,
Here is a link to a bunch of videos that may help:
http://blog.eprep.com/2006/10/11/sat-test-day-the-night-before-and-morning-of/comment-page-2/#comment-3237
Good luck tomorrow!
September 24th, 2011 at 10:07 am
Hey I have the SAT in a week..I have done 3 college board tests where I got 2020, 2090 and then 1930. I am so worried and I have only one shot becuase there is too much riding on the test. My biggest problem is my math section where I get 580-630, is there anyway I can push this 710 in this final week? Thank u
September 27th, 2011 at 7:22 am
Niio,
I suggest you complete the math section of ePrep’s free diagnostic test. The practice may help. Also, I suggest you watch all of the videos in the “math” category of ePrep’s blog site. The videos will give you some good tips on how to successfully complete the math sections of the SAT.
Good luck!
September 28th, 2011 at 7:06 pm
Hi, I’m in 8th grade and I am taking the SAT on saturday. I usually score around a 730 on writing and math, but i still only get a 650 on critical reading. Is there any quick tips that might help? I have taken the entire Kaplan and Princeton review SAT course and really need to get a 2000 on test day. I am in desperate need of pointers. Thanks
September 29th, 2011 at 9:52 am
Hi Karl. I have a question about the essay scoring. I took the essay
section and graded my essay as a 12, but the scoring grid said that
this translates to a 670. A few days later, I looked at it again and
it said that it was a 790. I didn’t change anything. Why is this?
Why isn’t it an 800 if it’s a perfect score?
Thanks.
September 29th, 2011 at 8:02 pm
Arjit,
Just relax and try your best. Sometimes the CR passages on the real SAT are easier than the ones in prep books.
Good luck.
September 29th, 2011 at 8:02 pm
Isabel,
I will troubleshoot the issue for sure, and email you directly.
October 1st, 2011 at 7:15 pm
Thanks Karl, I took the test and I think it went pretty well. When I receive my scores, I will leave an update here. Thanks for the advice!!!
December 2nd, 2011 at 11:27 pm
Just wondering- do you think my scores on the infamous
Blue Book practice tests correlate to the ones I will get?
I’m a bit suspicious, because I’ve been scoring well into
the 700′s and I’m in 7th grade. BTW I’m taking the SAT
tomorrow!
December 5th, 2011 at 8:19 am
Another person,
I hope you did well on Saturday.
I think your scores will translate well from the Blue Book to
the real test. The only real difference is that the real test
is very long and I’m not sure whether your Blue Book scores
were the result of single practice sections or an entire SAT.
Please let me know how you did, when you get your scores. I will
keep my fingers crossed.
January 27th, 2012 at 8:29 pm
Hi I’m a sophomore and tomorrow I will be taking the SAT for the first time. I am extremely nervous because I have had such little time to prepare since I had such a short notice (my parents signed me up without telling me until last minute). I don’t really think I will do well especially on the math section since I haven’t even taken Algebra 2 yet. My main focus has been on the writing section. My writing skills are usually very high. My PSAT scores even showed it-I scored above 78% of sophomores. I just feel so unprepared to take the test tomorrow morning, I am so stressed out. I wish I could re-schedule the test date but its already been set. I don’t know what I should do, please feel free to give me any advice you may have, thank you.
P.S. great website
January 28th, 2012 at 6:26 am
I’m a seventh grader chosen to take the SAT earlier than most students for something to do with Duke University. I’m not exactly sure what Duke University is doing, though. Okay. So I took your advice and I am definitely wearing layers. Oh and I forgot to mention I’m taking the SAT today. This morning. At 7:45am Eastern Standard Time. I’m extremely nervous even though if I fail or get a bad grade, it doesn’t really affect anything for me since I am still going to take it in highschool. Yep! So THANK YOU!!!
March 8th, 2012 at 9:36 pm
hi im a current 11th grade junior and i have been taking the sats 3 times now and never got the score i like
i am only getting 1500s on the real ones but on practice tests i get 2060 is there something wrong with
me mentally? i am samrt and have a great gpa and take 3 aps this yr but my sat in bring my confidence
down dastrically and my parents say im not getting into college bummer
anyway advice would be helpful!
thanks!
March 9th, 2012 at 4:49 pm
i’m taking the sat tomorrow and i’m sooo nervous. I am good at writing, ok in math, but i’m horrible inenglish, i have done a lottt of vocab for my ap english class(junior) but what will help me do well in the critical reading???
March 9th, 2012 at 7:07 pm
I’m taking the Sat tomorrow for the first time I took like 6 practice tests since December and I have scores around in the 1530-1590′s range. Do u think I my actual sat score will be better or worse and approximately by how much.
March 9th, 2012 at 11:22 pm
Thank you so much. I’m taking my SAT in the morning, that I believe this will help me a lot.