Improving SAT Reading Score?

So I got my SAT scores back, and my reading score isn't quite where I want it to be. What are some effective ways to improve it before I take the test again? Help a stressed-out junior out, please! Thanks!

First, take a deep breath and know that you're not alone in wanting to improve your SAT Reading score. Here are some strategies to help you make progress:

1. Familiarize yourself with the types of passages: You'll typically encounter 5 passages on the SAT Reading: one literary narrative, two history or social studies passages, and two science passages. Understanding the range of passage types can help you adjust your approach based on the subject matter and question types.

2. Master vocabulary in context: Instead of memorizing lists of obscure words, focus on understanding words in context. As you read articles and books, make note of unfamiliar words and phrases, and try to infer their meaning from the surrounding text. Then look up the word's definition to confirm your understanding.

3. Practice active reading: Engage with the text by asking questions, visualizing information, and summarizing as you read. Taking short, concise notes can help you retain information and make it easier to locate key points when answering questions.

4. Build a strong foundation with daily reading: To improve your reading comprehension, spend time reading a variety of texts each day. Focus on reputable newspapers, magazines, and literary works. A diverse range of topics and writing styles will help you become more adaptable in tackling SAT Reading passages.

5. Analyze questions and answer choices: Understand the common types of questions asked (main idea, inference, evidence support, vocabulary in context, etc.) and develop a strategy for tackling each type. Be cautious of answer choices that are too extreme, out of scope, or only partially correct.

6. Learn to skim effectively: With only 65 minutes to read five passages and answer 52 questions, time management is crucial. Learn to skim passages quickly, focusing on topic sentences, headings, and key phrases. This will allow you to get a general understanding of the passage before diving into the questions.

7. Take full-length practice tests: Simulate the test environment by taking full-length, timed practice tests. Analyze your performance to identify weaknesses and areas for improvement. The more you practice, the more familiar and comfortable you'll become with the test format.

8. Utilize official College Board resources: The College Board provides a range of resources, including sample questions, official practice tests, and personalized study plans. Stick to these materials as much as possible since they best reflect the actual test content and format.

Remember, progress takes time and consistent effort. By implementing these strategies into your study routine, you can steadily improve your SAT Reading score. Good luck!