After completing an SAT/ACT, use the results of the test as markers for how to improve your scores for the next time. Pinpointing your strengths and weaknesses in each content area will be your roadmap to setting up your regimen of practice exercises.
After taking the test: track your responses, mistakes, strengths and weaknesses. Take several practice tests to expand your knowledge of the pacing, content, format, and types of questions. Practice and repetition are the tools to build those effective test-taking strategies.
Here is a more detailed list of suggested ways to improve scores:
- Set up a schedule for shorter practice sessions to focus on a specific content area.
- Examine all your answers to target which content areas to focus on in practice exercises.
- Analyze mistakes and review incorrect answers and those you were unsure about.
- Keep a journal of your mistakes to reinforce learning.
- Dedicate more time to the specific question types or subject areas where you are struggling when selecting practice exercises.
- Review test-taking strategies and time management skills.
- Take more practice tests, simulating the actual test environment by completing several full-length tests under timed conditions.
- Go over common SAT vocabulary words-
- Practice time management during practices by answering quicker, easier questions first to build confidence and secure points, then move on to more difficult ones.
- Use a process of elimination and actively identify the three incorrect choices in multiple-choice questions.
- Tackle reading passages strategically: some read the questions first, while others read the passage and then go back to the questions. When reading, underline important parts or take notes to stay engaged.
Check out Team Tutor’s tips for test-taking strategies:
- https://www.teamtutor.com/learning-critical-test-taking-skills-for-the-sat-act/
- https://www.teamtutor.com/learn-time-management-strategies-for-the-sat-act/