Tips to Prepare for the PSAT or SAT
The Math Genius Program can help your child master these 7 tips… and more!
1. Develop a study plan.
Once you have registered your child for the PSAT or SAT and have a test date confirmed, develop a study schedule. Plan what your child is going to study on a particular day, when they will study, where they will study, how long they will study and their goals for each day.
2. Review key foundational Math concepts.
A thorough review of the Math concepts your child has learned in their arithmetic, algebra, and geometry classes is very important! It is essential to have a strong foundation and understanding of key terms and equations before he begins applying this knowledge to SAT Math problems.
3. Identify areas of weakness.
Focus on turning weaknesses into strengths.
4. Practice, Practice, Practice!
Similar to anything in life that you have mastered, learning how to complete the types of problems on the SAT is no exception. It takes hard work and a lot of practice to become fluent in a new language and to learn how to swim. Similarly, it takes hard work and practice to master the concepts tested on the SAT.
5. Simulate a real testing environment when studying.
Your child will have 3 hours and 45 minutes to complete the SAT. Treat study time as if he is taking the real exam. Block out all distractions, limit interruptions and focus throughout study hours. This will be good training for the real exam.
6. Time yourself.
The SAT is divided into 10 sections. Your child will have either 10, 20 or 25 minutes to answer the questions in each section, and each section has between 14-35 questions (click below to see a breakdown of the sections and the time allotment). On average there will be between one and a half to two minutes per question. Identify the shortest method to get to the correct answer. For example, for the Quantitative section, sometimes solving a problem algebraically is the quickest way to get to the answer. Other times, using a strategy such as Pick-A-Number or Back-Solve is the quickest method.
7. Take as many full-length practice tests as possible.
Taking a full-length test without any breaks is good practice for the real test. Most students have trouble focusing for an extended period of time. Have your child practice getting into the testing zone by blocking out distractions. Practice also sitting in the same chair at a desk for 3 hours and 45 minutes.