<p>So I’ve been taking this supposedly “intense” courses at a Kaplan academy for the last 3 weeks. The courses, imo, have not been much beneficial though I have seen results. </p>
<p>During the length of the course we’d take 4 practice test exams to measure our improvements and foreshadow our SAT results. </p>
<p>On the first test I got a 1600 and on the last test, I actually got a 1920, which is pretty good under my terms and a self-imposed minimum for myself in the real SAT. My dreamed score would be a 2000. My CR went from 650 to 600 though (It decreased in every test I took). Also, I got a perfect score on my essay.</p>
<p>Now, my question is how can I guarantee that I’ll get a similar or better score on the real SAT for this saturday? I’ve already gone through many practice SATs, but I still don’t feel comfortable, especially with CR which started out being one of my strongest points and ended up being my worst score. How do you even study that?</p>
<p>Exactly, you don’t study that. As a matter a fact, you don’t study anything for the SAT besides general tactics and strategies for the exam. Don’t get me wrong here, I’m not implying that it is a test of ‘intelligence’ or ‘logic’ and whatnot (although it may help, it won’t make or break you). The test measures your ability to read effectively, do math problems accurately, and show your concise writing skills. If you’ve been reading for a very long time throughout your life, I guarantee you that you’ll be above 700 in CR with a little practice. If you’ve been good in math throughout high school, taking rigorous courses and such, then SAT math should be a breeze once you become accustomed to it. And for writing, well it’s pretty much related to reading as well. You read a lot, and instinctively recognize grammatical mistakes, even though you may need to brush up on the general rules and such. The SAT is a test that is prepared for throughout your entire high school life. However, if you’re above-average intelligence or generally find yourself comfortable taking tests and doing puzzles, then you’ll quickly adapt to the exam.</p>
<p>Oh, and on a side note, forget about the SAT prep courses. They’re a ripoff, and everyone on this forum has made it to above 2000 with personal effort and hard-work.</p>