Heya! I'm just a freshman in high school, but I wanted to know if I should begin preparing for the SATs this early. Is it better to start in 9th grade or should I wait till sophomore or junior year? Appreciate any guidance!
Hey there! It's totally normal to think about SAT prep early in high school, but I'd recommend waiting until your sophomore or junior year to begin more focused preparation. As a freshman, your main priority should be adjusting to high school, building strong study habits, and establishing a solid foundation in your coursework. Be sure to take challenging classes and work on developing your core skills, such as reading, writing, and math. These skills will naturally help you do well on the SAT when the time comes.
That being said, it doesn't hurt to familiarize yourself with the structure and format of the SAT, as well as do some light practice tests just to gauge where you stand. However, starting intensive preparation during 9th grade might lead to burnout or unnecessary stress.
Most students begin more structured preparation at the end of their sophomore year or the beginning of their junior year. This timeline gives you enough time to identify areas you need to work on, retake the test if needed, and make use of resources like test prep books, online resources, or study groups.
Focus on enjoying your freshman year and laying the groundwork for success in high school. Remember that colleges will be looking at your overall application, including your grades, extracurriculars, and personal development—so make sure to strike a good balance and allocate time for all aspects of your high school life. Good luck!
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