Improving my SAT scores from a 1610 to anywhere from a 1800+-2000+

<p>Hello, College Confidential advisers! I’ve been worrying about my SAT scores here of late. The field of occupation that I’m striving to break into-physical anthropology- requires admission to some sort of at least some sort of prestigious school. As one should know, a 1610 is definitely not the way to go. Nor is a math score that only ranks in the 21%. However, my main problem is not that I did not study; rather it was that no matter how hard I studied with College Board provided materials(my mother really couldn’t and still cannot afford a tutor for me), I couldn’t answer the algebraic and geometrical portion due to the fact that I either did not have one of two things: a. I didn’t have enough time (or I perceived that I didn’t have enough time; I tend to panic on math tests) or b. the explanation provided went /way/ over my head because it assumed that I had performed well in geometry and/or algebra II, and I didn’t, thus leaving me in the dust when it came time to test. I passed geometry with a B-, and just barely. The only things that saved me from my shoddy test scores (F-C-) were the finals(we were allowed to use simple note cards that contained all of the postulates and theorems) and the homework(with occasional assistance from my friends). I passed Algebra II with a C+, again after a long fight with certain tests and quizzes that ended with me having a low score (D-C) and homework that redeemed me. But, here’s the run down of my total scores. . .</p>

<p>Writing: 570</p>

<p>Math: 420</p>

<p>Reading: 620</p>

<p>So is it possible to make an improvement on my math scores? What are some recommended websites, hotlines, or whatever that are relatively “Stressed Out Middle Class Single Mother”-friendly in cost? If there is no hope, just tell me upfront; I’d rather be woken up relatively soon so that I can start on seeking an alternative now than to figure that out later when I have meaningless degrees and credits.</p>

<p>I raised my math score from 480 to 730, so you can do it too.
Just do a lot of practice. I printed out all the released test to practice.
Good luck. </p>

<p>I went from a 1420/2400 to a 2210/2400 so yes anything can be done with practice.</p>

<p>Spuding, what exactly did you do to get to that point?</p>

<p>See if you have any SAT prep classes offered at your school. Also, talk to an Algebra 1 or 2 teacher that you may be somewhat fond of. They may not mind going over some missed problems out of the blue book with you. Whatever you do don’t give up. Are you taking it again in May or June?</p>

<p>If math is your main trouble spot, then you can improve your score relatively quickly and inexpensively. The suggestions above are all fine. </p>