Wednesday, September 9, 2009

College Board Offers Practical Advice and Test-Taking Tips for Students Taking the New SAT

To help students taking the exam, the College Board offers these suggestions:

  • Answer easy questions first. The easier questions are at the beginning of the section and the harder questions are at the end. The only exceptions to this rule are the critical reading questions, which may be ordered according to the logic of the passage.
  • Guess smart. If you can rule out one or more answer choices, your chances of guessing the right answer improve.
  • Don't panic. You do not have to answer every question correctly to get a good score.
  • Use your test book for scratch work. Cross off choices you know are wrong; mark questions you have omitted to go back and answer if time permits.
  • Keep track of time. If you finish a section early, use the extra time to go back and check your answers.
  • Remember that the essay is essentially a first draft. Scorers are trained to view your work "holistically." They will be looking for your ability to develop a point of view and support your argument with specific examples that draw on your coursework and readings. Remember to write legibly, but also know that simple grammatical and spelling errors will be overlooked.

Additionally, the College Board offers these tips to make the test-taking experience go smoothly:

  • Prepare in advance. A few days before the test, set aside all the materials that you will need to bring to the test. Make sure to bring at least two number two pencils, a good eraser, your admissions ticket, acceptable photo identification, and a scientific or graphing calculator.
  • Don't cram. Try to avoid studying the night before the SAT. It's better to get a good night's sleep.
  • Eat a healthy breakfast. A nutritious breakfast will keep you energized.
  • Leave early and plan your transportation in advance. Don't wait until the last minute to secure directions to the test center. If you are driving with a friend, be sure to coordinate pickup times to ensure that you arrive in time for the test.

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