By Elizabeth Manley
Staff Writer
On March 14th the Juniors will take the dreaded SAT. This test is huge. Colleges will be looking at this SAT score, so how do you ace this test? Well, it all starts with studying. Luckily you’ve already started, by taking the PSAT! However, everyone knows that's unfortunately not enough. Which begs the question, how do you study the best way possible?
One way to study is to look at your past scores and see what you struggled with. When you look at Bluebook you can see the types of questions you missed, so study those questions. If you know you missed them in the past, you’ll probably miss them again. Of course, studying everything is a good idea because you may have forgotten a concept or two from the PSAT, but you should definitely focus on your weak areas. Another way to study is to take as many of the practice tests on Bluebook as possible. They are very similar to the SAT, so they are a great way to prepare yourself for the test. When asking AVID 11 teacher Ms. Roa about her SAT studying tips, she stated, “Ensure your studying is data-driven. Start with your PSAT report and use it as a form of constructive criticism to review your strengths and as a chance to focus on your areas of growth. A few suggestions for studying is that the SAT is timed, so mix your studying by first mastering skills, then honing your skills so that you are able to answer questions within the time constraints. Some great things to study are Reading & Writing 1:11, and Math 1:35. Another tip is to get a study buddy and hold each other accountable. Use flashcards and treat it like a quiz/game. The best way to rise is by lifting each other up.”
Adding on, one of the most important tips is to study way earlier than you think you should. Even if you think a few weeks will be plenty of time, it won’t. Start studying really early, like excessively early, or you might find yourself in a pickle trying to cram everything into the few short weeks left before the SAT. Senior Elizabeth Kassim felt, “There was a lot more pressure for the SAT than the PSAT from the teachers and it felt harder than the PSAT. My biggest tip is to start studying earlier, even months in advance.” Ms. Roa also said, “It’s never too early to study, however, the most important time is after your junior year PSAT. Begin with 1-2 hours per week during semester one after your PSAT. Dedicated time should be set aside during the second semester. Treat it as weekly homework and study about 3-4 hours per week until the test date. You don’t want to try and cram everything in at the last second.”
In review, focus on what you struggled with last time, take as many practice tests as possible, and start studying early. Finally, try not to stress and trust your studying, good luck!
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