Strategies to Ace the SAT Reading, Writing, and Math Sections

As an experienced SAT taker, I scored a 1490 in December 2017 and a 1530 in May 2018. In this article, I will share the best books and tips I used to boost my scores. This guidance will help you prepare effectively for the SAT reading, writing, and math sections.

Reading and Writing

The two essential books for mastering the SAT reading and writing sections are the Critical Reader and the SAT Grammar Workbook by Erica Meltzer. These books provide comprehensive tips and tricks for each type of question, and will greatly enhance your understanding. Make sure to take notes while reading them and use those notes for practice. Note-taking is crucial for retaining information and applying it during the test.

While these books provide excellent insights, they may not offer enough practice questions. Therefore, it is highly recommended to supplement with a regular SAT book like Barrons. This will ensure you have ample practice to hone your skills.

Mathematics

For the math section, any SAT preparation book will suffice. The key to excelling in math is regular practice and memorization of relevant formulas. Before attempting any questions, jot down all the formulas related to the specific topic on a sheet. As you practice, try to memorize these formulas to save time during the test.

Other Study Tips

Beyond the books and specific strategies, there are some overarching tips that can significantly improve your overall SAT performance:

1. Study Vocabulary Regularly

Study a second and third language, as understanding vocabulary is crucial for many sections of the SAT. Read extensively to improve your vocabulary and comprehension skills. Write frequently by sending 'Thank you' cards via USPS. This practice helps in sharpening your writing skills and encourages regular writing habits.

2. Practice and Reflect

Write down questions that you have pondered but didn't know whom to ask. Reflect on and respond to these queries privately or in writing. Ask more questions of yourself, and reflect on your answers. Write in longhand, as this helps concentrate your mind and improve your ability to focus.

3. Engage in Conversations and Games

Engage in conversations with your neighbors or play games such as cards, backgammon, cribbage, and chess. These activities can enhance your cognitive skills and provide enjoyable study breaks. Talk and think while playing games. This combats the passive nature of game play and enhances active engagement. Set responsible goals for yourself and hold yourself accountable. This helps in maintaining a disciplined study routine.

Lastly, remember the importance of vocabulary and perspicacity. Building a robust vocabulary can significantly benefit your reading and writing sections, while perspicacity—the ability to understand things readily and clearly—can be heightened through regular practice.

Conclusion

By following these strategies and dedicating yourself to rigorous preparation, you can boost your SAT scores and achieve the results you desire. Stay committed to your goals, and with diligent effort, you can ace the SAT reading, writing, and math sections.

Good luck!