Originally known as the Scholastic Aptitude Test, the SAT is an entrance exam used by the majority of colleges and universities to make admission-based decisions. The SAT, a multiple-choice test administered by the College Board, measures a student’s ability in math, reading, writing, as well as the students’ preparedness for college.
The College Board is a non-profit organization that was formed in December 1899 with the purpose of helping students gain more post-high school opportunities and prepare for college. The College Board is governed by an elected board and is currently made up of 31 members. Registration for the SAT can also be done on the College Board website as well as the College Board application.
The SAT is administered several times a year: March, May, June, August, October, November and December. The earliest a student can take the exam is in freshman year, but often, students take it for the first time as juniors. The SAT can also be retaken in senior year.
“I’m taking the SATS for the first time this year,” junior Kaitlyn Mcclennen said. “I’m pretty nervous. Studying for a big test like that is kind of hard.”
Many students worry about getting a good score and what happens if they don’t. The SAT uses a 1600-point scale, which is derived from scores in two sections. According to the College Board, the average SAT score in 2019 was 1050. Any score above that would be considered above average. Although studying for the SAT isn’t uncommon, students may feel like they don’t have the resources. Here are three ways to prepare for the SATS.
Take the PSAT
A great way to practice for the SATS is to take the PSATS. The PSAT is administered every October and November. The PSAT is very similar to the SAT, and is defined as a practice test. While the PSAT is a little bit less difficult than the SAT, it’s still extremely useful. Taking the PSAT is a great way to see what your score on the SAT might look like, and also a great way to see what you can improve. However, the PSAT can only be taken once per year.
“I took the PSATS in October,” junior Jamie Warner said. “I was able to see my scores on both the math and english section, so it wasn’t hard for me to see what I needed to work on. I wasn’t really happy with my score, so hopefully on the SAT my score is better.”
Purchase a practice test booklet
Another great way to prepare is SAT textbooks. Whether bought online or bought in store, they are very helpful. The textbooks include example problems, as well as ways to approach the problems you might see on the test. Usually, the textbooks also explain how the test works and give insightful tips. To find the best book for you, popular educational website testprepinsight.com has a review of the best SAT books available.
“I bought the College Board SAT study guide,” junior Cameron Paisley said. “I was surprised by how much content it has, and it’s also really heavy. But I feel confident about the SATs now.”
Hire an online tutor
Online tutors are a great way to study and practice. An online tutor is able to answer your questions, and is able to help you in real time. A tutor may have also taken the SATS as well, and practicing with someone who has had experience may make things easier. Tutors can be found online, and can also be found at tutoring locations near you.
While some colleges and universities are test optional, having a good SAT score is in your benefit. A good SAT score can earn you scholarships, and will make you noticeable to college admission officers. Practicing for the SATS can be tricky, and even boring, but putting in the time and effort is all the more worthwhile.