For the two million students taking the SAT every year, the test looms as an essential milestone on the road to college. Despite a tide of test-optional policies in the college admissions process, many students still opt to take the test as a component in the admissions process. Preparing for the exam can feel daunting, but with the right strategies and mindset, you can maximize your score and approach test day with confidence. Here are some tips from upperclassmen at Berkeley High School on how to ace the test:
1. Familiarize Yourself
The SAT is a predictable test, so familiarity is key. Take the time to understand the test’s structure, timing, and question types. The exam consists of two sections: Reading and Writing and Math. By knowing what to expect, you can reduce test-day anxiety and improve your time management. Specifically, knowing what resources are available to you during the test, such as the Desmos calculator and reading assistance, is crucial.
"I didn’t realize how much easier the SAT would feel once I really understood the test format and the tools available, like the Desmos calculator,” Vivien Silas, a BHS senior said, “The more familiar I became with the question types and timing, the more confident I felt."
2. Use official practice tests
There’s no better way to prepare than by using official SAT practice tests available on the College Board website. These tests mirror the actual exam and provide valuable insights into your strengths and weaknesses. You can also test out the specific tools that the College Board will offer on the official test, unlike in most third-party websites!
3. Adopt the two-pass strategy
Just like with most tests, a key strategy is to begin with the questions you can quickly solve, then move onto the ones that take more time. Especially because all questions within a subject are weighted equally, allocating your time effectively to get as many answers as possible is key.
“Since there’s no penalty for getting a question wrong, a great strategy for me was knocking out all the ones I could solve quickly first,” Max Glater-Chacon, a BHS junior, said, “The last thing you want is to realize you spent too much time on a long question and ended up missing the easier ones.”
4. Build your vocabulary
A strong vocabulary is still critical for understanding Reading and Writing questions. Incorporate vocabulary-building tools, such as flashcards or apps, into your daily routine. Take a look at the 100 most common SAT words.
“The SAT tends to recycle some of the same vocabulary words year after year,” BHS senior Isabella Rodriguez said, “It’s a huge advantage to know key vocabulary, then pair it with contextual evidence.”
5. Targeted practice is key
Having trouble in one section in particular? Do targeted practice to maximize your time using Khan Academy, Bluebook, and other free resources available online.
Nick Eichinger, a senior at BHS, said, “For me, the Reading and Writing section felt a lot easier than the Math. I spent more time working on Math and specifically on the hardest topics for me, like geometry.”
6. Annotate for speed in reading
To save time and stay focused, develop a habit of annotating as you read. Underline or circle key phrases, names, dates, and transitions that signal shifts in tone or argument. Write short notes in the margins to summarize main ideas or important details. This approach helps you avoid re-reading entire sections and makes it easier to locate information when answering questions. By actively engaging with the text, you can improve both your speed and comprehension.
“Annotating makes such a difference. It helps you stay focused, remember the key information, and saves you from having to re-read everything later,” Sarah Jane Hoverman, a BHS senior, said.
Preparing for the SAT takes dedication and strategy, but it’s a challenge you can conquer. By focusing on consistent practice and self-improvement, you’ll be well on your way to achieving your target score.