Crushing the SAT: My Experience Scoring a 1600 Informally
Preparing for the SAT can be a daunting task for high school students. Many students undergo rigorous test preparation programs, attend tutoring sessions, and take numerous practice tests to achieve their desired score. I, on the other hand, took a more informal approach to preparing for the SAT and was able to score a perfect 1600. In this article, I will share my experience and give insights on how you can crush the SAT too.
Approach the SAT with Confidence
The SAT is designed to test your critical thinking skills, and the best way to tackle it is with confidence. I approached the test with a positive attitude, knowing that I had put in the time to prepare for it. At the same time, I realized that the SAT is just a test, and it would not define my future. Therefore, I did not stress over it, but instead, I treated it like any other test I had taken in high school.
Understand the SAT Format
Before taking the SAT, it is essential to understand the test format. The test comprises of two sections, namely, Math and Evidence-Based Reading and Writing. Each section is graded on a scale of 200-800. The total score is then calculated by adding up the two sections. Additionally, there is an essay section, which is optional and scored separately. Understanding the format of the SAT will help you determine how much time to allocate for each section, and you can plan your test-taking strategy accordingly.
Practice with Timed Mock Tests
To score well on the SAT, you need to familiarize yourself with the test’s format by taking timed mock tests. I took several mock tests to assess my skills and pinpoint areas where I needed improvement. These practice tests helped me understand the types of questions asked and how to manage my time during the test.
Focus on Your Weaknesses
After taking mock tests, I identified my weak areas and focused on improving them. For instance, I struggled with the math section, particularly with formulas and equations. I reached out to my math teacher, who helped me with the difficult topics and clarified my doubts. Once I understood the concepts, I practiced solving worksheets and took more mock tests to monitor my progress.
Read Broadly
The reading section of the SAT requires you to comprehend and analyze passages from various subjects. Reading newspapers, magazines, and novels can help you develop your reading skills and broaden your understanding of different topics. I read articles from the New York Times and National Geographic, which helped me become comfortable with reading challenging texts.
Conclusion
Preparing for the SAT does not necessarily have to be a stressful experience. With the right mindset, understanding the test format, taking mock tests, focusing on your weaknesses, and reading broadly, you can achieve your target score. The SAT is just one aspect of your college application, and it should not define your academic capabilities. Therefore, approach it confidently, give it your best shot, and remember that your future success depends on more than a single test score.
