Ms. Lo's SAT test preparation tips
Standardized tests are all about a student's ability to answer unfamiliar question forms in a timed, high pressure setting. I am not going to say that "practice makes perfect" because a perfect SAT score is not the right benchmark goal for every student. However, practice will increase a student's familiarity with the question types, time management, and also self-confidence in taking that specific standardized test.
Even though I am a private SAT tutor, I will not insist that private SAT tutoring is the only way a student can see improvements in their scores. It is highly possible to self-guide through test preparation, but it takes extraordinary self-discipline of time, self-scoring, and study. I personally love Khan Academy for all the different academic topics it covers, including their SAT preparation program. However, the College Board & Khan Academy program mostly covers academic content and practice questions without spending an equal amount of time or coverage on general test taking strategies or SAT specific test taking strategies. A highly motivated student could guide him or her self through a SAT textbook, but I have yet to meet someone who was able to complete the coursework on his or her own.
In my practice, I ask to see a copy of the student's PSAT score report and SAT score report. I like to evaluate for strengths and needs before meeting the student so I may personalize the pace and details of the SAT prep program. In general, the entire program takes 7 or more hours. We have 2 lessons on Reading, 2 lessons on Writing, 1 lesson on Essay, and 2-3 lessons on Math. I help the student get comfortable with the test format, interpreting questions, honing test-taking strategies, and refreshing academic skills. After discussion with the student, we tend to set a goal score of 50-70 points per subject above recent scores so that we may calibrate pacing and strategy.
Beyond a starting PSAT or SAT score of 1300, every point is hard fought. The difference in score can be affected by answering just two or three questions right or wrong. In this case, we focus on efficiency, working out traps and tricks in the questions, and keeping cool during the long 4 hour plus test.
Regardless of your chosen test prep method, I strongly suggest starting 6-8 weeks ahead of the SAT test date. Please register early! The next test will be on August 25th, 2018 followed by October 6th and November 3rd.
If you have any questions, feel free to Contact me. I try to respond within 48 hours.