ThisCouldBeHeavn

If you're asked what 2 + 2 equals and you're trying to figure out square roots as a tool to solve it, you're not going about the problem intelligently.

disgradius

second that cr is the most indicative. SAT math is ridiculously easy even math 2. Its just too easy to slip up and bubble the wrong choice or read the question wrong and get -40 from one question wrong. With math 2, everyone who is semi-decent at math is squashed into 800.

writing is easy to study for (the grammar bits at least). Essay writing is improved with time as well

Rishmeister

i meant overthinking on the critical reading section, not the math. 'Heavn gave an exaggerated example of what i was saying.

Thispakistanigir

The SAT being designed based upon intellect relies on one's own definition of the word "smart." To me that word describes an individual who has had enough sense to pay attention to classes throughout their years in middle and high school. Such students almost always practice diligently and therefore have strong mathematical, analytical, and gramatical skills. Those who have done as such will be most prepared for the SAT. However, practice throughout a long period of time can prepare you for the SAT. Be smart enough to study really hard for the test and you'll most likely get a good score.

112358

I agree to an extent, but you have to be intelligent enough to realize when you're overthinking.

stupidme

Yawn, if the SATs measured intelligence, then i'd be pretty smart.
Seeing that i'm not, the SATs must not measure anything.

Unholy Sigma

Stupidme, congratulations on finding a way to brag. I'm sure your high SAT score is indicative of a very bright individual. Have some faith in yourself.

Avalanche Lily

As for overthinking, I think the CR questions can really trip a lot of smart people up...you can't actually analyze the passage from the standpoint of the author or from the standpoint of what you think it means. You have to stay focused on what the collegeboard people were thinking when they made the test. But frankly, I've never thought that multiple choice critical reading can ever test literary analysis the way an essay can.

stupidme

hah, perhaps i wanted to brag, or perhaps it really doesn't matter. The thing is, if the SATs were indicative of anything, then human intelligence is indeed a sad thing.

Rishmeister

ahaha, a-men to that!

112358

You're assuming that a) all wealthy people take expensive prep courses and b) that prep courses are significantly more helpful than self-studying for an equal amount of time.

ThisCouldBeHeavn

^No, he's assuming that there's data correlates Income and SAT scores, which there is.

But there shouldn't be three different viewpoints ... and there aren't. I'm sure there's the occasional exception, but the first and third are almost always the same. The answers on the SAT aren't wrong. If the second viewpoint doesn't match the others, you're wrong, pure and simple.

As for overthinking, that should be irrelevant if you take the test properly. All you have to do is read the passage, read the question, then assess the accuracy of each answer as it relates to the question. Problems only arise when you get distracted by considering what the test-maker may have thought. If you think clearly and remember that there's no ambiguity - only one answer is correct - you should be fine. As for how that relates to intelligence, an inability to properly assess each choice implies lesser intelligence.

112358

That's a little different from saying that the SAT is "indicative of wealth and preparation." The data can be interpreted a number of different ways. I think his interpretation is pretty clear.

NoLuck

people who say SAT does not measure intelligence just have bad SAT scores.

Pranam0

Ok, yes, I do have to say SAT measures intelligence. I have studied for it since I was in fourth grade, but I am not very "smart," I am just a hard worker. I do everything possible, yet I cannot find a way to make over a 2210, no matter how hard I try. It's frustrating knowing that people who don't study but are naturally very bright can make 2300's. I guess that's the SAT, it's just part of the process...