SAT Preparation - Answers To Common Questions
There is just something daunting about the idea of sitting down to a three to four hour test that makes most people break out in a sweat. You just never feel comfortable with those sorts of people that seem to love taking those torturing tests of knowledge. But it does not have to be so bad. SAT’s do not have to be this all encompassing torture device that will keep you from going to the school of your choice. With the proper SAT preparation you can find the relaxation you need in order to do well on your test. In this article we will give you some of the basics of the SAT as well as tips on how to prepare for the SAT’s. It will not be as bad as you think it is going to be. You might be surprised at how well you will actually do.
Why take the SATs?
The SAT’s are used to get into college and determine where your placement is on average compared with other students your age and academic background. Many colleges require a minimum score in order to begin taking their core classes. If you score lower than their required score you may have to take remedial college classes in order to gain the knowledge you will need in order to pass the core classes. Some colleges, especially the elite colleges where admissions are at a premium, could deny you entrance based on your scores due to heavy competition to gain entrance. That is why it is important to do your best on the test.
What is the ACT?
The ACT is a 215 multiple choice test that is very similar to the SAT except in how it is scored. It tests the same material and is a timed test as well. The ACT tests four subject areas and also has a thirty minute writing portion of the test. Just like the SAT you can use a special calculator for the mathematics portion of the test.
I do not do well on standardized tests. How can I help myself do better?
Practice. Practice. Practice. That is the best way to learn how to take a standardized test. Some people will continuously claim that they do not do well on standardized tests but do not know the reason why. It probably has to do with the fact that it is a timed test. The best advice that can be offered or taken is to go through and answer the questions that you immediately know the answers to and then go back to the ones that will require deeper thought. This allows you to get a greater percentage of the questions finished. If you have unanswered questions and know that you do not have time to finish the problem do not leave the answers blank. It is better to take a wild guess than to automatically miss the question because you did not answer it.
How should I prepare the night before for the test?
You should definitely get a good night’s rest. Do not be out late with friends and then drag in early in them morning expecting to do well on the test. Sure, we have all heard of people that have pulled this off but do you really want to take that chance that it is all an urban legend? Lay out your supplies and clothing the night before in case you oversleep and are running a bit late. Eat a healthy, nutritious breakfast to give you the fuel you will need in order to think clearly. If you utilize these few hints you will give yourself an added advantage when it comes time to take that long test. Good luck on the test and try to relax!
By Education Editor
