Happi Guide for SAT® Prep
A complete guide to SAT® mastery
SAT® Exam and Scoring
Make Success Inevitable
Test Day Strategy
Colleges and Scholarships
The SAT® exam is a crucial component of the college admissions process, widely used by colleges and universities. While it isn't the only factor considered, achieving a high score can give you a significant edge. Research the universities you're interested in to understand how they weigh SAT® scores in their admissions criteria.
Moreover, many scholarship programs take SAT® scores into account, potentially saving you substantial amounts of money on your college education—a major benefit given the rising costs of higher education.
Essentials of the SAT® Exam
The SAT® Exam is a standardized test designed to assess your skills in reading, writing, and math. The exam is conducted digitally.
Exam Structure
The SAT® exam consists of two main sections: Reading and Writing (R&W) and Math. Each section is divided into two modules, and you can view, answer, and review questions within each module as you choose. However, you cannot proceed to the next module until the time for the current one has elapsed. Here’s a quick overview of the exam structure:
The first module of each section contains a mix of questions at varying difficulty levels. Your performance in the first module determines the difficulty level of the second module: your second module will either be easier than the first module, or harder. This way, the exam strives to efficiently assess your level and give you an accurate score.
Reading and Writing Section
The Reading and Writing (R&W) section assesses your critical reading skills, including your ability to comprehend and analyze texts. Additionally, it evaluates your evidence-based writing abilities and effective language usage, including grammar and punctuation. Questions are multiple choice and based on short text passages.
Math Section
The Math section assesses your skills in various topics such as algebra, graphs, statistics, geometry and trigonometry. The Math section features multiple-choice problems, along with student-produced response questions, where you type the numeric answer into a response field. About 30% of the questions are based on real-life situations or examples.
You are allowed to use a calculator throughout the Math section. There is a built-in calculator, the Desmos Graphing Calculator, available in the exam system, and you can bring your own calculator. You can find a comprehensive list of approved calculators on the >>College Board website.
Scoring
Each section of the SAT® exam is scored on a scale from 200 to 800 in 10-point increments. The Math and Reading and Writing sections are equally weighted, resulting in a total score ranging from 400 to 1600 points.
When To Take the SAT® Exam
Generally a good plan is to take the SAT® exam during the spring of your junior year, and then, if necessary, retake it the following fall in time for application deadlines.
College Application Deadlines: Most deadlines are in January. For these, your last SAT® exam should be in November or earlier. However, early decision / early action deadlines are in November. If you are going for these, your last SAT® exam should be in October or earlier.
Plan for multiple opportunities: Attending the SAT® exam once might do it for you, but it’s wise to prepare for taking it 2 - 3 times. Consider this with the application deadlines when deciding when to take your first SAT® exam.
Preparation time: The amount of time you need to prepare for the SAT® exam depends on your target score and your current skill level. However, it’s advisable to invest at least 2 - 6 months of consistent studying to ensure success.
Other commitments: Consider your other commitments such as AP exams, summer break and the workload during the fall semester. These affect your available preparation time, and most importantly whether you are able to focus on the SAT® exam when it draws near.
Location and availability. Check the location of test centers near you in advance. Note that not all test centers are open for each of the test dates, and the number of available seats can vary. Also check if your school offers SAT® School Day, in which case you can do the exam in your school.
Things To Consider for Each Exam Date
March (typically early March)
Do you have midterm exams taking a lot of time?
Does the spring break affect your preparation and focus?
May (typically early May)
If you attend AP exams, you may have difficulty finding time to study for this SAT® exam.
The AP exams are generally in the first two weeks of May.
June (typically early June)
Do you have a lot of end-of-year activities that affect your study schedule?
Do you have summer plans or vacations at this time?
August (typically late August)
If you can study consistently during the summer break, this can be an exceptionally good time to take the SAT® exam.
October (typically early October)
The fall of the final year in high school can often be busy. Check if you can arrange time to study in the summer for the August exam and keep October as a backup plan.
The scores should make it for both the early decision / early action deadlines as well as the regular January deadlines.
November (typically early November)
The scores should make it for the January application deadlines, but not for the early decision / early action deadlines.
Can you leverage the Thanksgiving holiday for some more studying?
December (typically early December)
The scores might not make it for the January application deadlines.
Can you leverage the Winter break for some more studying?
Note! These are general guidelines. Always check your target colleges’ application deadlines.
How Many Times To Take the SAT® Exam
Generally, a good plan is to prepare for taking the SAT® exam 2-3 times, and to really study between the attempts to maximize the chances of score improvement in subsequent exams.
Benefits of Multiple Attempts
Score improvement. Learning from past attempts, studying more and retaking the exam has a good chance of leading to an improved score.
Best score. Many colleges allow applicants to choose which scores to send, which enables you to present your best performance from multiple attempts.
Superscoring. Many colleges allow superscoring, which means combining your best math score and your best reading and writing score across different attempts.
Experience. In subsequent attempts, you might feel less nervous and be more familiar with the exam and the exam environment, which might lead to a better performance.
Risk mitigation. If something goes wrong (e.g. an illness) on one test day, having prepared for multiple attempts ensures that the bad luck on one day doesn’t define your SAT® score.
Downsides of Multiple Attempts
Time commitment. Preparing for multiple attempts can take a significant amount of time that could be spent on other things. Remember that college admission is not based only on your SAT® score.
Cost. Each SAT® exam costs money, and taking it multiple times can become expensive.
Stress. The pressure of striving to improve an already good score and the constant preparation and testing can negatively affect overall well-being and academic performance.
Diminishing returns. The chances of a significant score improvement depend on the previous score, the amount of quality studying between attempts, and a bit on luck. Without studying properly in between, multiple attempts tend to not yield significant score improvements.
Colleges’ Perception. Some colleges may view excessive attempts unfavorably, perceiving it as a sign of lack of preparation or inconsistency.
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SAT® Scores and College Admissions
The SAT® exam plays a crucial role in college admissions. It's essential to research the policies of your preferred colleges early in your SAT® journey. By doing so, you can reduce stress by ensuring you meet all necessary requirements. Additionally, you can optimize your application: Understanding each college's SAT® policies allows you to estimate the importance of your score in the admissions process, plan your study and test schedules effectively, and determine the need for possible retakes.
Most colleges provide clear guidelines on their application processes via their websites.
Application Deadlines
Review admission deadlines and SAT® test dates. Ensure you take the test in time to meet the deadlines, reserving time for possible retakes. Reviewing deadlines well in advance also helps you create a realistic preparation plan and register for the test dates early.
Standardized Test Requirements
Check if a standardized test result is a mandatory application component, offers scholarship opportunities, or fulfills prerequisite requirements for college courses. In these cases, a good SAT® score receives a high priority in your application. Even if not required, a good SAT® score can enhance your application. All in all, understanding how each college evaluates SAT® scores in the context of their holistic admissions process can help you balance your efforts across various aspects of your application, such as essays, extracurricular activities, and interviews.
Superscoring
Some colleges use superscoring, combining your best section scores from different test dates. If available, superscoring allows you to focus on improving one section if you already have a great score from the other.
Score Submission Policies
Some colleges require all scores to be sent, while others allow Score Choice®, where you select which scores to send. For the first thing, knowing these policies helps you decide how many times to take the SAT® and how to prepare. If all your scores are considered, significantly weaker test results can be a disadvantage. Also, check the policies well in advance to avoid missing the deadlines or incurring additional fees.
Average Score and the Range of Scores
Many colleges publish the average scores and ranges of admitted students. Use this information to set a target score and estimate the preparation time needed. However, remember that while it’s reasonable to aim for the higher percentiles of the range, colleges usually use a holistic approach in their admissions, so one SAT® test result won’t define your entire future.
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Superscoring: Your Best Scores Combined
Superscoring means you can combine your best Math score with your best Reading and Writing (R&W) score from different SAT® attempts.
Many colleges use superscoring in their admissions process. If you achieve your best section scores in different test attempts, you should send both results! However, some colleges do not use superscoring, and you will need to send your best individual SAT® score. If a college requires all your scores, send them all.
Important Benefits of Superscoring
Re-attempting the SAT® exam without noticeable improvement can be frustrating. For example, a high-achieving student might score 1500, 1490, and 1520 on three different attempts. Superscoring can still turn this situation around! Here’s an example:
March
Math score: 730
R&W score: 770
Total score: 1500
June
Math score: 750
R&W score: 740
Total score: 1490
August
Math score: 780
R&W score: 740
Total score: 1520
At first glance, the reattempts may seem unproductive. However, superscoring takes the best R&W score (770) and the best Math score (780) from any attempt. For colleges that use superscoring, the total score is 1550 (770 + 780) — a significant improvement!
Check the score submission policies of your target colleges to find out whether they allow superscoring.
If you have already taken the SAT® exam more than once before, check what your superscore is in addition to total scores from single attempts.
How To Succeed by Planning
Have you ever noticed how tough it can be to get started with studying? You might feel totally unmotivated, and there usually seem to be a million other things you could be doing. But once you actually sit down and tackle some practice problems, you start to feel pretty good. That initial resistance? It was totally worth pushing through.
The Secret to Consistent Studying
There’s a trick to overcome the starting reluctance. A trick that seemingly always-motivated students use. Create a study timetable. By marking your study sessions on a calendar and sticking to your plan, you can ensure you’re putting in enough practice—even on days when you’re just not feeling it.
How To Create a Timetable That Works
1. Determine Your Available Study Hours
Start by figuring out how much time you can realistically dedicate to studying each week. If you’re focusing solely on SAT® prep, the recommended maximum of active study hours per week is 25 - 35. However, if you have classes and other commitments, adjust your hours accordingly. Some weeks, you may only manage a few hours, and that's perfectly fine. The key is to find a balance that works without overwhelming you.
If you're managing a busy schedule, start with a modest goal, such as 2 hours per week. The important thing is to establish a plan that you can consistently follow. Achieving even small goals can significantly boost your motivation!
2. Set Specific Study Times
Break down your weekly study hours and allocate them to specific days. You can create your timetable for the next week on the weekend or as the first task on Monday. Write down exact starting times and, just as importantly, stopping times. Rest, relaxation and having fun are crucial for effective learning, so don’t study overtime – even if your day wasn’t as productive as you hoped or if you started late. There’s always tomorrow to continue from where you left off.
3. Plan Your Subjects
Decide which subjects you’ll study each day. Allocate more time to areas where you feel less confident to strengthen those skills. Typically, a lower score has greater potential for improvement and is likely to improve much more than a higher score. For instance, boosting a score from 500 to 700 may require a few dozen hours of focused study, whereas a similar effort might yield a 30-70 point improvement if starting from 700. Therefore, prioritize your efforts on challenging subjects to maximize improvement.
Aim to review each subject at least twice a week, provided you dedicate more than two hours per week to each subject and it fits into your weekly schedule. This approach helps you keep the material fresh in your mind.
Balancing Study Hours Between Math and R&W
When planning your study schedule, it's usually beneficial to include both Math and Reading & Writing, regardless of which subject you find easier. This approach allows you to maintain and improve your skills in the stronger subject while focusing on strengthening the weaker one. A good guideline is to aim for at least two study sessions per week for each subject, unless your weekly plan or available study time limits this approach. If you study for several hours daily, alternating between subjects can also introduce variety.
Example 1: Prioritizing the Weaker Subject
A student takes a practice test and scores 750 from Reading & Writing and 520 from Math. They decide to focus on improving Math and plan to study for 10 hours a week. Here’s their schedule:
Monday: 3 h Math
Tuesday: 1 h Math and 1 h R&W
Wednesday: 3 h Math
Thursday: A day off
Friday: 1 h Math and 1 h R&W
So, they use 80% of their time on Math and 20% on Reading & Writing.
Example 2: Targeting Improvement in Both Subjects
Another student takes a practice test and scores 620 from R&W and 550 from Math. They plan to study for 15 hours a week. Here’s their schedule:
Monday: 2 h Math and 2 h R&W
Tuesday: 3 h Math
Wednesday: 2 h Math and 2 h R&W
Thursday: 2 h R&W
Friday: 2 h Math
So, they allocate 60% of their time to Math and 40% to Reading & Writing.
Key Principles for Balancing Study Hours
The timetables above are examples. Your total study hours, the proportion of time allocated to each subject, and how you distribute these hours throughout the week can vary. Here are the key principles to consider:
Focus on the harder subject. Lower scores generally have greater potential for improvement compared to higher scores. Therefore, prioritize your efforts on the more challenging subject to maximize your overall progress.
Maintain your skills in the easier subject. Even when focusing mostly on the other subject, use a few hours a week to maintain your level in the easier subject.
If your study hours and weekly plan allow, aim to study each subject at least twice a week. This helps you retain what you’ve learned.
Avoid exhaustion. Spread your workload across multiple days rather than cramming them into a single session.
When Superscoring Might Be an Option
While it’s generally best to balance your study efforts between math and English, there’s an exception worth considering: superscoring. Some colleges accept superscores, where they consider your highest scores from different test dates. If you have already achieved a high score in one subject, you might choose to prioritize improving the other subject, especially if time is limited. In such situations, you can adjust your study plan to postpone revising the stronger subject until later in your study period, or balance the study hours even more heavily towards the weaker subject.
Example 3: Intensive Focus on the Weaker Subject
A student has taken the SAT® exam and they scored 780 from Math and 620 from R&W. They decide to prepare for 2 months focusing mostly on R&W as their target colleges accept superscoring. Here’s their weekly plan:
Monday: 3 h R&W
Tuesday: 1 h Math
Wednesday: A day off
Thursday: 3 h R&W
Friday: 3 h R&W
So, they allocate 90% of their time to improve R&W and 10% to maintaining their level in Math.
Note that you might change your mind on where to apply, and colleges may change their admission policies. Hence, even when heavily focusing on one subject, it’s important not to neglect the other one.
How To Create Optimal Conditions for Studying
Here are some key elements to consider when setting up your study space to ensure maximum productivity and focus.
Eliminate Distractions
Choose a quiet space. Select a quiet study area in your home where interruptions are minimal. Libraries may also be a great option. Let your family know that you are studying and should not be disturbed.
Turn off notifications. Put your phone on "Do Not Disturb" mode or, even better, keep it in another room to avoid the temptation of social media and other distractions.
Use website blockers. If you’re studying on a computer, use a browser extension or an app that blocks distracting websites that you might have an urge to visit.
Support Focus and Energy Levels
Use a dedicated space for studying. If possible, select an area for studying that you don’t frequently use for something else such as sleeping or watching television. This makes it easier to avoid the urge to start doing something else.
Keep healthy snacks and water nearby. Stay hydrated and eat some healthy snacks on breaks to maintain your energy levels.
Take frequent breaks. You can only maintain intense focus for so long before studying becomes ineffective. However, a short, refreshing break can almost completely replenish your focus. Try splitting your study session into intervals of 25 minutes of intense studying followed by a 5-minute break (Pomodoro Technique).
Good Ergonomics and Lighting
Comfortable seating. Make sure you can study comfortably so that aches or discomforts won’t hurt your focus.
Screen position. If you’re using a computer, position the screen at eye level to avoid neck strain. In the evening, it’s a good idea to use an app that restricts blue light from the screen to mitigate the negative effects of late evening screen time on your sleep.
Adequate lighting. If possible, choose a spot with plenty of natural light. Natural lighting can be easier on the eyes and can help boost your mood and energy levels. In the evening, it’s a good idea to use a lamp with adjustable brightness to avoid eye strain.
Boost Focus, Learning, and Memory
Sleep, nutrition and exercise form the basis for success in any endeavor. Neglecting these fundamental aspects is like an athlete skipping training and proper nutrition before a big game; it's a recipe for underperformance.
Here’s how you can take care of yourself like an SAT® athlete:
Sleep
Prioritize consistent sleep. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night to ensure your brain functions at its best. Consistency is key, so try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day.
Create a relaxing bedtime routine. Establish a calming pre-sleep routine to signal your body that it’s time to wind down. This could include reading a book, taking a warm bath, or practicing relaxation exercises.
Limit screen time before bed. Avoid screens for at least an hour before bedtime. The blue light emitted by phones, tablets, and computers can interfere with your ability to fall asleep.
Importance of sleep. Quality sleep is crucial for learning as it helps consolidate memories and process new information, ensuring that what you study is retained effectively. It also supports your mood and ability to focus, which are crucial for successful studying.
Nutrition
Eat balanced meals. Consume a variety of foods that include whole grains, lean proteins, healthy fats, and plenty of fruits and vegetables to keep your energy levels steady throughout the day.
Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water to keep your brain and body functioning optimally. Dehydration can lead to fatigue and reduced concentration.
Healthy snacks. Choose snacks that provide lasting energy, such as nuts, yogurt, and fruits, rather than sugary or highly processed foods which can cause energy crashes.
Importance of nutrition. Healthy nutrition directly affects learning and focus by providing essential nutrients that support brain function, improve concentration, and enhance cognitive performance.
Exercise
Incorporate regular physical activity. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week. This can include activities like walking, jogging, cycling, or any sport you enjoy.
Take short activity breaks: Include brief periods of physical activity in your study routine. Stretching, quick walks, or simple exercises can boost blood flow and improve focus.
Importance of exercise: Regular exercise enhances brain function, boosts mood, and increases energy levels, all of which are essential for effective learning and maintaining focus during study sessions.
By prioritizing sleep, nutrition, and exercise, you can enhance your overall well-being and improve your ability to study effectively for the SAT® exam.
Proven Study Techniques for Math
In the SAT® Math section, the key to success is the ability to solve a variety of problems quickly, correctly and independently. Here’s how you’ll succeed.
Solve a Lot of Practice Problems
You wouldn't learn to ride a bicycle by only reading about it, and you won't excel in math by merely reading or watching videos. Just like riding a bicycle, problem-solving in math is a skill, and skills are learned by doing. The best way to prepare for the SAT® Math section is through consistent practice with math problems. This hands-on approach helps you develop the problem-solving skills and confidence you’ll need in the exam.
Using the Happi SAT® Math prep app simplifies the process of active learning. The app provides a vast array of practice problems, designed to prepare you for the test and arranged logically in terms of both importance and learning progression. However, you won’t have to reinvent mathematics from scratch; the app offers compact theories for reference and each problem has an example solution available. With Happi, you can focus on mastering math without the hassle of searching for suitable practice problems.
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Embrace the Challenge
Efficient studying isn't just about solving practice problems—the level of challenge also needs to be right. Too easy problems quickly become boring and won’t help your skills grow, and having too much challenge all the time becomes frustrating. The best for both motivation and learning is to solve a variety of problems around your skill level so that you get a mix of success and challenge. When faced with a challenge, keep trying: investigate the context, sketch and explore different approaches. Do everything you can, but don’t give up and look at an example solution yet! If you get stuck, take a break, perhaps sleep on it, and return with a fresh perspective the next day.
Happi customizes practice problems to match your skill level, providing just enough challenge to keep you motivated without becoming overwhelming. This approach allows you to enjoy your successes and build confidence while steadily improving your skills.
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Avoid Cramming and Test Your Recall
Which do you think is more efficient for cementing a new math formula into memory: reviewing it 20 times today, or reviewing it once per study session during your next 20 study sessions? Which do you think is a more effective way to review the math formula: reading it again and again from notes, or trying to produce it from memory and then checking if you got it right?
In order to strengthen the memory of something you’ve learned, review has to happen after you’ve started to forget, and review has to happen actively by trying to find the thing from your memory. By reviewing this way, you essentially tell your brain that “this is something I need to be able to recall for an extended period of time”. As a consequence, the memory fades slower and slower after each review.
By regularly revisiting topics over time and actively recalling from memory, you reinforce your understanding and retention. This systematic approach ensures that mathematical knowledge stays fresh in your mind, helping you perform confidently and accurately on the SAT® Math section.
The Happi SAT® Math prep app provides you with well timed opportunities to retry problems you answered incorrectly in the past, and also automatically guides you to review topics you haven’t studied in a while. With Happi, you can focus on learning and let the app handle reviewing for you.
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Don’t Settle for Superficial Learning
Imagine trying to learn a foreign language by just memorizing a massive number of phrases instead of learning grammar to be able to create your own sentences. Learning math without deep understanding is similarly ineffective.
When studying, strive to understand the mathematical principles behind solutions to problems, the differences and similarities between concepts, what each symbol means in a formula, and so on. This way, you are able to apply concepts more effectively and adapt to different types of problems. This deep understanding equips you with the ability to tackle the SAT® Math section with confidence and precision, no matter how the questions are framed.
In the Happi SAT® prep app, you’ll go through the topics in the SAT® math curriculum so that you’ll always have a solid foundation to build on. The app makes sure you remember the prerequisite knowledge needed to understand the next topics, and through testing and practice, it makes sure you understand the concepts deeply and are able to apply them flexibly.
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Maximum Benefit From Practice Tests
Taking practice tests is a crucial part of efficient SAT® test preparation. It helps you recognize your strengths and weaknesses, track your progress, and get used to test conditions. Here’s how to take practice tests effectively and analyze your results for the best outcome.
When To Start Taking Practice Tests
Take the first practice test at the beginning of your exam preparation period. However, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the exam structure and strategies beforehand. This way, your initial practice test won’t come as a total surprise, and you’ll have a basic understanding of what to expect.
Spacing Out Your Practice Tests
Next, choose how many practice tests to take based on your available study time, and space them evenly throughout your preparation period. Consider these aspects when scheduling your practice tests:
Aim to take your last practice test about a week before the actual SAT® exam.
Ensure you always have time to analyze your performance and enhance your skills before attempting the next practice test.
Keep in mind that practice tests require concentrated focus, so it's counterproductive to take them too frequently.
You don’t need to complete all official College Board practice tests before your first SAT® exam!
Simulating Real Exam Conditions
The most efficient way to take a practice test is to treat it like the real exam. This approach helps you become accustomed to the conditions and lets you test your strategies. Here’s how to simulate a real exam:
Set aside the full exam time and ensure you can work uninterrupted for the entire duration.
Eliminate distractions: turn off your phone.
Use only the tools allowed in the actual SAT® exam: paper, pencil, the testing app, and a calculator (if you choose to use an external one).
Analyzing Your Performance
After completing a practice test, thoroughly analyze your performance:
Time management: Did you run out of time? If so, you may need to strengthen your routine by solving more practice problems.
Review each problem: Go through each question, focusing on those that took a long time to solve or you didn’t have time to solve, and those that you got wrong. Now is your chance for a rematch! Try to solve these problems again before checking the answers or solutions. Also, reflect on your weaknesses and strengths, identifying areas where you might have misunderstandings or lack knowledge, and consider what caused any mistakes.
Careless mistakes: Consider using scratch paper and checking your answer immediately after solving each problem. Practice these habits now, so they become second nature.
Tricky problems and topics needing revision: Mark these questions and topics for further review and revisit them in a few days to reinforce your understanding.
Happi supports your preparation with SAT® Math practice tests designed to simulate the real SAT® test Math section.
Time Management in the Math Section
Are you feeling the pressure in the SAT® math sections, with only 35 minutes to answer 22 questions? Here’s how to turn that stress into success with some tried-and-true tips.
Slow is Smooth, Smooth is Fast
Imagine you’re taking the test like James Bond playing chess—calm, composed, and confident. The biggest mistake is rushing. Slow down to progress smoothly and efficiently. Solve problems methodically to avoid careless errors. Remember, panicking wastes more time than moving slowly and steadily.
Know When To Move On
We’ve all been there: stuck on a question that eats up precious minutes. If after a minute or so you’re still not making progress on a question, skip it. Circle back later if you have time. This strategy keeps you from getting bogged down and boosts your efficiency.
Guess Smartly
No penalty for wrong answers means guessing is better than leaving blanks. Here’s a trick:
When you skip a question, guess an answer quickly.
Mark it for review. This way, you’ll ensure no question is left unanswered and can easily find the ones to revisit.
Round 2: Review and Conquer
After your first pass through the questions, it’s time for Round 2. Return to the ones you marked for review:
Focus first on solving these tougher problems.
Use any remaining time to double-check your answers. Always use the full 35 minutes to make sure you won’t miss out on any points.
Get in the Right Mindset
Remember, the SAT® exam isn’t your enemy. Approach it like a game and try to strike a balance between being tense and focused, and being calm and collected. When faced with tough questions, take a deep breath, stay calm and remember that you have time to think. When breezing through easier questions, keep a laser sharp focus and progress swiftly but carefully.
Identify Your Test-Taking Personality
Which test-taking personality do you identify with the most? Check out the personalized tips to help you reach your peak performance in the exam!
Stressed Susan
Stressed Susan has a tendency for anxiety in the exam. Susan is constantly worrying about the ticking timer, which hurts her focus. She is browsing the questions when she should be calmly attempting to solve them one by one. The anxious state of mind makes it hard for Susan to think clearly and solve problems she would normally be able to.
Natural Nathan
Natural Nathan feels at home in the exam. The stress makes him focused, but not anxious. He strikes a good balance between tense and calm, progressing steadily without wasting time. He is able to make good strategic decisions such as when to skip questions and when to think more.
Relaxed Ronald
Relaxed Ronald reacts to the stress by becoming apathetic. He is relaxed and able to think clearly and carefully. However, to his detriment, Ronald cannot get up to speed and finds himself out of time with many questions unanswered.
Personalized Tips for Preparation
For Natural Nathans
Reflect on your state of mind. Simulate the real exam situation when doing practice tests. Try to identify what helps you strike the balance between stress and calm, and do the same on the real exam day.
Focus on studying. You are fortunate to have a good state of mind in the exam, so your performance comes down to your math and English skills.
For Stressed Susans
Build confidence by solving problems correctly. Focus on solving practice problems by yourself, and don’t worry about how long it takes to solve one. This way, you’ll build confidence and learn to trust that you are able to answer the questions correctly in the exam.
Practice calming down. Simulate the real exam situation when doing practice tests. Try different ways of calming down both before the exam and during it. Identify what works for you and you’re on your way to performing like Natural Nathan.
For Relaxed Ronalds
Pedal to the metal. For a part of your studying, use a timer and try to solve as many practice problems as possible in a limited amount of time. This way, you’ll learn to rev up your brain and find a more effective state of mind for the exam.
Practice ramping up. Simulate the real exam situation when doing practice tests. Try different ways of getting a bit more excited and worked up before the exam and during it. Identify what works for you and you’re on your way to performing like Natural Nathan.
Conclusion
Just like math, taking the SAT® exam is a skill set you can practice. Regardless of whether you identify more with Stressed Susan or Relaxed Ronald, you can learn what helps you get into the right state of mind and perform like Natural Nathan. Combine this with diligent studying to improve your math skills, and following a good time management strategy in the SAT® exam, and you’re on your way to an exceptional score!
Ensure a Calm and Smooth Exam Day
Exam Week
Review your exam location, route, transportation method, and estimated travel time. Remember to consider the effect of traffic jams and similar delays. If possible, you can even visit the location beforehand.
Complete your exam setup on the Bluebook app 1-5 days before the exam. Remember your username and password for the test day. After completing the setup, download and preferably print your admission ticket.
Previous Day
Charge your computer.
Pack your exam items the day before to avoid hassle in the morning. If there are items you need to add to your bag in the morning, write a list to consult before leaving to the test center to avoid forgetting anything crucial.
Required Items:Valid photo ID
Admission ticket (a print is preferred)
Fully charged computer and charging cable
Your College Board username and password
Pencils or pens (not highlighters or colored pencils)
Optional Items:
Calculator (if you wish to use your own instead of or in addition to the Desmos Graphing Calculator embedded in the exam system)
Snacks and water
Medications or medical devices, if you need those (consult College Board Services for Students with Disabilities). Epinephrine auto-injectors are permitted without the need for accommodations.
A watch without an audible alarm (good idea to have for the break!)
A bag or a backpack
A backup testing device
You can find a complete list of required, optional, and prohibited items on the >>College Board website.
In the evening, choose clothes for the test day. Comfortable layers are recommended so that you don’t feel hot or cold during the exam.
Set an alarm for test day based on the time you need for your morning routine and travel. Check your arrival time on your admission ticket to ensure you arrive early. Note that you must not be late, as late arrivals will not be allowed to attend the exam. Leave a safety margin so you don't have to stress about being late.
Go to bed early – your hard studying is done, and rest is the final key to success. Prioritizing sleep and relaxation is far more effective than cramming the night before.
Morning of the Exam Day
Wake up at the intended time.
Check the Test Center webpage on the College Board website to make sure there are no short-notice changes or closings.
Eat a familiar breakfast. Avoid changing your diet on test day and choose foods that you know suit you well. A healthy breakfast preferably includes whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
Arrive at the test center on time. Your proctor will guide you forwards.
At the Test Center
Visit the restroom. The next opportunity will be after the Reading & Writing section.
Be early and find a good seat. Consider access to a power outlet, proximity to the proctor’s table (closer = quicker access to more scrap paper), proximity to windows (for temperature and noise control), and comfort (where will you feel least distracted).
Turn on your device, ensure no apps are open except Bluebook, and complete the exam preparations in the Bluebook app.
Time for the SAT® exam. Take a deep breath and smile to build up your confidence. You’ve got this!
When your proctor gives the start code, begin your exam immediately, so that you’ll be among the first to finish. Finishing early is important because, as others finish, they might distract those still taking the test.
Make the most of the break after the Reading & Writing section: walk, stretch, have a snack and drink, and use the restroom if needed. This will restore your focus for the Math section far better than staying seated.
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