Effective free SAT preparation resources

SAT preparation is an important task because the SAT is an essential element for a U.S. study abroad application. To achieve high results on the SAT, it is important to develop a detailed and scientific practice route. Here are the important steps to help you prepare for the SAT effectively:

SAT has switched to computer-based testing (SAT Digital)

SAT Test Structure

From March 2023, the SAT will switch to computer-based testing (SAT Digital), shortening the test time to 2 hours and 14 minutes but still maintaining a scale of 400–1600.

• Reading & Writing Section: Combine Reading and Writing into two modules (32 minutes each, 27 sentences). Paragraphs are shorter (25–150 words) and each paragraph has only one question, focusing on analytical and expressive skills.

• Math Section: Consists of two modules (35 minutes each, 44 sentences), allowing full-time computer use and examining topics from Algebra to Trigonometry.

Self-Assessment

Before you start, test your competency through a mock exam or analytical tools such as QAS, SAS. This helps you identify your strengths and weaknesses and plan your studies accordingly.

Make a detailed timetable

Create a detailed schedule to balance your classroom studies and SAT preparation. If you have a goal to increase your score significantly, divide your study time by week or day to suit your individual abilities and schedule. For example, short but frequent learning can be more effective than long learning without concentration.

Practice mock exams to get used to real pressure

Practice tests play an important role in assessing progress and improving test-taking skills. You should choose exam questions that are close to reality and create the same space and time as the official exam to get used to the pressure of the exam room. Regular practice also helps you recognize weaknesses that need to be overcome and practice the speed of the test.

Reliable resources are a decisive part of SAT preparation effectiveness. Here are some resources you can refer to to practice for the SAT:

• CollegeBoard.org: The

  College Board's official website not only offers practice tests, but it also comes with detailed instructions, test-taking strategies, and effective time management tips. In particular, you don't need a complicated login to access these helpful materials.

• Khan Academy:

  Khan Academy is a leading free learning platform that integrates SAT tests, video tutorials, and personalized study paths. After each exercise, you will receive an analysis of the specific results, which will improve your score markedly.

• The Princeton Review:

  With its online practice tests and helpful revision strategies, The Princeton Review is a great choice for you to hone your skills and improve your SAT score.

• Kaplan:

  Kaplan supports SAT tests for free with detailed explanations for each question. This is the ideal resource to help you gain a deeper understanding of the test types and improve your skills in handling difficult questions.

• TestPrepPractice.net:

  This website compiles a wide range of SAT prep materials, including reference books and practical tests. You can easily find the right learning resources without signing up for an account.

• Varsity Tutors:

  If you want to study with flashcards or create your own quizzes, Varsity Tutors is a platform not to be missed. Although it requires an account, the site's diverse features will help you practice effectively.

• SparkNotes SAT Prep:

  SparkNotes not only updates the material according to the latest changes to the SAT, but also provides detailed exercises for each skill, suitable for all levels of students.

• Powerscore.com:

  This is a comprehensive source of diverse SAT materials, from test prep books, practice questions to official tests. You can access it easily without registering an account.

In addition, you can refer to some effective SAT prep books below.

• The Official SAT Study Guide: Provides detailed instructions and practice exercises close to the actual test.

• Erica Meltzer's Books: Focus on reading skills to improve speed and analytical ability.

• Princeton Review: Cracking the SAT: Provides test-taking tips and assignments for the Reading section.

• College Panda: For Writing & Language and Math skills, helping you consolidate your knowledge and test-taking strategies.

In order to score well on the SAT and open up opportunities to win scholarships, it is extremely important to have an effective revision strategy. Here are some tips to help you prepare the best:

Discipline is the key to maintaining your SAT preparation schedule

• Discipline is the key to helping you stay on track. Stick to your revision schedule, whether you're struggling or feeling discouraged. You can also take breaks between sessions to relax, but be sure to come back with a focused spirit after each vacation.

• To prepare effectively, you need to have a firm grasp of the structure of the SAT, including Reading, Writing and Language, Math (No Computer) and Math (With Computer). Along with that, you also need to familiarize yourself with the number of questions and the time for each section of the exam to have a reasonable strategy for taking the test.

• To do well, you need to master topical vocabulary such as "Main Idea", "Inference", "Tone" in Reading, or grammar rules in the Writing section.

• Proper allocation of study time is extremely important to ensure that you prepare for the exam effectively. Assessing your skills and identifying what parts need reinforcement will help you divide your time properly. If Reading is your weakness, spend a lot of time practicing this skill.

With a proper SAT preparation strategy and perseverance, you can absolutely pass the SAT exam excellently and open the door to promising learning.

With more than 55 years of experience in the field of study abroad counseling and orientation, IDP has helped more than 800,000 students realize their dreams of studying abroad in countries with advanced education such as the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and many other countries. IDP is proud to own an extensive network of more than 800 prestigious high schools and universities in 35 countries and territories.

IDP is ready to support you wholeheartedly, from application instructions, necessary procedures to find a scholarship to study abroad up to 100%, helping you prepare your study abroad luggage easily and smoothly. In addition, you can attend IDP's study abroad seminars to meet with university representatives face-to-face and review applications on the spot.

Please contact IDP via 19006955 hotline for detailed study abroad advice. IDP's team of experts is pleased to accompany you on your exciting and meaningful study abroad journey!