Boost Your SAT Math Score: Strategies for Improvement

[anthonych414]

Hello everyone, I'm currently in high school and will be applying to universities this summer. I recently took my SATs and, although I did pretty well on the english sections (Writing=650 and Reading=600), I was extremely disappointed by my maths score (640). Now I'm not generally weak in maths (I have a 91% in Calculus) but for some reason I seem to make the silliest of mistakes in SAT math. SO my question is : Is there anything I can do to improve my maths score? And if so what should I do to improve?

 

[Stengah]

I was disappointed with my math score the first time I took it too. I bought a book of practice tests and took 4 or 5 of them. My math score improved 100 points.

 

[Thundagere]

The thing is about SAT Math, is that there are people who get 5s on AP Calculus tests but bomb the SAT Math. The reason is a lot of it is less about whether you know the stuff (which you do have to) and more about test-taking strategies. With this in mind, I would also recommend looking at Practice books, they can definitely help.

 

[mathwonk]

I took it last in 1959 or so but the same principles probably apply now. It is a timed test, and a short answer test, so practice helps. I was on the math team at my school and we practiced for those contests by taking lots of standardized tests and timing ourselves.

I took the SAT once and got over 795/800. (I recall it as 797, but I am told that is not now a possible score.)

 

[Matrix0]

I understand the importance of standardized test scores for college admissions. It is great that you did well on the English sections, but it is understandable that you are disappointed with your math score. First of all, it is important to recognize that the SAT math section tests a specific set of skills and strategies that may differ from what you have learned in your calculus class. Therefore, it is crucial to familiarize yourself with the format and content of the SAT math section through practice tests and review materials.

One strategy for improvement is to identify your weak areas in math and focus on improving them. This could involve reviewing basic concepts, such as algebra and geometry, and practicing with specific types of questions that you struggle with. You may also want to consider seeking help from a tutor or joining a study group to receive personalized instruction and support.

Another important aspect of improving your math score is to practice time management and test-taking strategies. This includes pacing yourself during the test, skipping difficult questions and coming back to them later, and utilizing the process of elimination to narrow down answer choices.

Lastly, it is important to stay confident and positive. Making silly mistakes is common on standardized tests, but it is important to not let them discourage you. Stay focused and determined, and with practice and the right strategies, I am confident that you can improve your SAT math score. Good luck!