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Frequently
asked questions concerning the SAT |
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Why is preparation for the SAT necessary? |
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The vast majority of students will benefit from advance preparation because the
SAT is not like tests given in school.
The format of the test is very different. For example: most questions are
multiple choice, easy questions are given the same weight as difficult
questions, and points are deducted for wrong answers. These differences in
format dictate taking a different approach to achieving a good score.
The content of the test is unfamiliar. More than half of the test is based on
middle school math and algebra 1. For many students, this math is ancient
history and needs to be refreshed.
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What are the options for SAT preparation? |
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There are three broad options for preparation.
The least expensive option is self-study using a preparation book and/or
computer software. This option is best for students who have the discipline to
study some number of sections or chapters every week during the weeks and months
leading up to the test.
Another option is to take a SAT class. The class will be most effective when
students attend every class, pay close attention throughout each class, ask
questions whenever they do not understand the material, and do all of the
homework.
Although tutoring is the most expensive option, nothing is more effective
than one-on-one attention. This holds true for all types of students at all
levels of ability. Tutoring is best suited to students with demanding schedules,
particular weaknesses, special concerns, or those who don’t generally do as well
as expected on standardized tests.
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When should preparation begin? |
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Competition for college admission is causing students to start preparing earlier
and earlier. Although some students begin during the summer before their junior
year, most will begin around Jan 1 of their junior year. The latest that a
student could begin to prepare and have a reasonable chance of doing well is two
months prior to the test. In those cases a “crash course” may be needed.
Students who have learning issues, have math anxiety, have particular
weaknesses, do not “test well” or have tight schedules should start early. |
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What about the ACT? |
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Every student should take a practice ACT and most students should take a real
ACT if their schedule permits. The ACT is accepted by virtually all colleges and
is a good alternative to the SAT. Although ACT scores will be comparable to SAT
scores most of the time, some students score much better on the ACT. If your ACT
scores turn out to be comparable or lower than your SAT scores, then don’t
submit them to the colleges. |
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Where can I get more information? |
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Click here for more SAT information.
Click here for more ACT information. Click here for more information
about the hundreds of colleges that do not require either SAT or ACT scores.
Some of these are among the top colleges (Middlebury, Mount Holyoke, etc.). |