Tips on SAT?

JUST START TAPPING YOUR PENCIL IN MORSE CODE AND HOPE SOMEONE HEARS
tap tap tap tap tap tap tap tap tap tap tap

Ah~ The beloved reading section~

Here are some things I do for the Reading Section:

I always end up with time to spare, so I can afford doing the whole description, through reading and stuff. If you read slow, it's a good idea to skim, and underline key points. Marking up the text will make it a lot easier to find important information quickly. Since the questions will reference the lines involved, there really is no explicit need to read the entire passage through. However, through reading will make answering your questions faster, I've found.

It's easier if you go paragraph by paragraph, then writing a short two word/sentence description of what each was about in the margin. This way, you'll have the idea of the writing more clear in your head.

I personally wouldn't recommend simply skimming.
It wastes a bit of time when you have to look back at the passage when lines are referenced in the questions. I read the entire passage through, and along with my short descriptions, I basically don't have to look back at the passage any more though the rest of the section.

Spending too much time thinking about the wording of the questions is bad for me. Since the SAT tends to be a bit unclear with their words, a first impression is usually enough. The more I think about the question, the more likely I start thinking about 'what ifs' and the implications of the question. That's what usually trips me up. So, I answer all of the questions rather quickly, then go back and double check my answers after I'm completely done with the section.

And ta-da, readings done~

TAP TAPTAP TAP.

On a tangent here, but Sophie has more posts than you as I write this, Kevin.

Keep trying Kevin.

Back on topic!

Yes, I've read Cracking the SAT too.
It's a great book, but I still feel that you should go with what's easier for you.

Everyone takes tests differently, I find that I get really paranoid whenever I skim. It ends up making me take more time then I save, so I avoid that tactic. I end up with egregious amounts of spare time left over at the end of all my sections though, so I suppose that you should do what's best for you. Plus, the passages are pretty interesting to read... *mumble mumble

Taking a practice SAT tomorrow at IA Central. It'll be fun.

Personally the math section is the easiest. It's all plug and chug, like you said in your first post, Kevin.

Anyhow, does anyone have any hints for the writing section? Specifically the error identification part?

Nope, it's not that bad.
It's just that you might wanna get started soon, that's all. The SAT is predictable, which is why a lot of people are getting started early.

Also, we're taking the PSAT in October. This is what makes you eligible for National Merit Scholarship, which is why a lot of people are starting to study for that early.

SAT and ACT deadlines are in a year or so, so you still have a ton of time to get started. :)

WOAH WOAH~
Wait a sec :P just wondering.

First of all, studying for the SAT is almost the same as studying for the PSAT, right? There's no big diff? Is there an essay in the PSAT? Experimental section? D:

And also,
What do you mean by "The SAT is predictable." I've heard that what you get while studying the SAT is usually what you get when you take the SAT.
Is that really true? :) I'm always scared that I study a lot and get a good score but when I actually take the real SAT, I like. .
Bomb it. D:

Kind of.

Except the PSAT is brutal with scores. It's literally get one question wrong = a 76 instead of an 80. So, I'm focusing on the PSAT right now, so I can get used to those scores and aim for a higher number.

Yes, the SAT is very predicable. All the questions are phrased identically, regardless of what test it is. There are specific sections, and questions all follow the same format. So, if you practice with the SAT, you won't be facing anything incredibly different on the actual exam.

(Only thing that might change is your level of stress though, so that could be a reason. )

WHAT D:
Ahhh I may just take the PSAT just----
Wait,
Do people take the PSAT only to hope for the Merit Scholarship? D: Or do some people take it just for the test experience?

Everyone has to take the PSAT. It's required of all students.

But some people study for it so they have a better chance at the merit scholarship. The scholarship is kind of a big deal.

Also, the PSAT is about 2 hours. The SAT is four.
So, uh... I like studying for the PSAT more anyways. xD

DX IT'S REQUIR--- okay.
:3 ahmmmm that makes more sense XD okay okay !

Sure~

There's an SAT test on October 1st, you can register for it here.

The closest ACT test is on September 10th, but I think you might wanna take the one on October 22nd. You can register for it here.

A lot of this stuff is done online now, but you'll be asked to make accounts. Don't worry, these are the legit sites. <3

To be honest,
I'm doing great off of just one book: I REALLY REALLY recommend the "Cracking the SAT - Princeton"

You can get one from the library and just have it for around two weeks.
If anything, the reason I'm saying you should try that book out is because the SAT is actually really testing you on how well you take the SAT--not how well you know your material.

Because of this, if you're a good independent learner, you can just check the book and read it.
I've heard that classes are for improvements of 200 score but you can get the same thing with less time by just reading the book I recommend! =]

I took an SAT class, and raised my score by 600 points...

I, uh, was a pretty bad test taker. Taking classes will get you some tips, and the teachers will teach you tactics they used to beat the SAT themselves. However, it's up to you, really.

Doing those daily SAT questions will help a lot, but sitting down and doing full sets of problems are good too. But really, it does come down a lot to your learning style. c:

Since taking the SAT for real might actually be reported to the colleges, you might wanna do a few practice tests first. I've gotta get through 10 tests by next year...

You can get those at the library too~ :D

Consider our courses Accelerated, Honors, or AP and yes, we're a public school.
Although we have to test in, I believe we still are counted as public.

--- Eeeeh, I guess if you're that bored over the summer you could do the classes.
I wouldn't recommend it unless Sophie's statement is you: in which, you like to learn that way in a classroom environment with a teacher.

From what I hear, it's just a LOT of fast paced work and blagh :P

And wow 600 points!?
Holy cow Sophie!!!
That's like. . . 1800 -> 2400
AHHH JEALOUSY.