<p>Hello,
I recently took the SAT in May and was extremely disappointed in my scores.
I scored a 640 CR, 470 M, 610 W which equals a composite score of 1720. This was my first time taking the SAT, and I did not study or prepare for the test beyond taking AP Lang my Junior year. I was hoping for an 1800 something as my initial baseline score, as that would most likely indicate an above average, or 600 points, in each section. As you can see, my math score is very low in relation to the national average.
My end goal is the get a composite score of at least 1360 in critical reading and math. Does anyone have any tips or personal testimonies of such a large score improvement? So far I’ve been studying the Official SAT Study Guide and some online resources. I would love to know if this score is within the realm of possibility for me and what to do in order to reach that goal. </p>
<p>Basic steps to take include studying the sections of the official SAT study guide, then start taking practice tests. After each test evaluate all the wrong answers and figure out why your answer was wrong. Make a flash card about the items you miss and have to study. If you don’t know why it is wrong, get someone (parent, friend with strong academic skills, teacher, etc) to explain it to you. The Gruber books are good supplemental books for math preparation, too. Another option is to take a SAT course. The good news for you is that the math section is easier to study for than critical reading.</p>
<p>I don’t know why anyone would be disappointed when they took the test with no preparation. Would you expect to do well on a test in high school with no studying?</p>
<p>If you can’t bring your scores up as much as you would like, another option is to consider test optional colleges where you don’t have to report your scores. if you have a strong GPA and ECs, that is worthwhile to look at. There are schools like Bowdoin and Mount Holyoke that are great colleges, and do not require test scores. </p>
<p>What constitutes a “great college”? Just out of curiosity.</p>
<p>I realize that this is the first time I took the test, so I should not expect an incredible score, but it is an aptitude test – it should assess my natural ability.</p>
<p>Colleges that do not require SAT/ACT scores are not an option due to financial and geographical constraints. </p>
<p>I think I need to target the math, but I am concerned no means of preparation will help me. I’m reviewing all the math on the SAT, since there isn’t much, and I’m practicing problems, but my biggest issue doesn’t seem to stem from either. My biggest issue, apparently, is that I can stop making silly mistakes, even with a calculator. It’s awful! </p>
<p>I also can’t seem to connect the math I learn to the math on the SAT. It just doesn’t seem to click, and even if it does, I make some sort of mistake.</p>
<p>Do you guys know any tips specifically for this type of issue or if I’d be be better off with the ACT? </p>
<p>Try the ACT. It’s a little more fast paced, but it is more straight forward</p>