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Duke University
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Unweighted GPA: 3.7
1.0
4.0
SAT: 720 math
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| 800 verbal
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Any Last-Minute SAT Prep Tips?

I'm taking the SAT super soon and I'm kinda freaking out. I've been studying, but I feel like I could use some last-minute tips and tricks to help boost my score. Can anyone share their experience or how they prepared right before their test? I'd really appreciate it!

6 months ago

Hey! Nervousness before the test is completely normal, and it's great that you're seeking some last-minute advice. I'll share a few tips that could help you during this final countdown, as well as on test day:

1. Review your weakest areas: Focus on the sections or question types that have been giving you the most trouble. Work through a few practice questions and try to understand the concepts better. Don't spend too much time on the areas you're already comfortable with.

2. Take a practice test: Try taking one or two full-length practice tests under timed conditions during the week or two before the test. Doing so will help you get a better sense of the time management needed for the exam and give you a final assessment of your strengths and weaknesses. Remember to critically analyze your results.

3. Learn test-taking strategies: Familiarize yourself with effective test-taking strategies like process of elimination, and reading the questions before reading the passages in the Reading section. These strategies can help save time and boost your score.

4. Memorize math formulas: While the SAT includes some formulas on the reference sheet, make sure you're comfortable with all the necessary math formulas. Being able to recall them quickly will save you time during the Math sections.

5. Establish a test day routine: Get a good night's sleep the night before and have a balanced breakfast on test day. Make sure you have everything you need (admission ticket, photo ID, pencils, eraser, calculator, etc.) and know the route to your testing location. Feeling calm mentally can give your performance a big boost.

6. Practice self-care: It's important not to stress yourself out too much. Take short breaks whenever you feel overwhelmed and engage in activities that help you unwind, like going for a walk or listening to your favorite music.

7. Develop a test-day mindset: On test day, stay positive and remind yourself that it's just an exam, not the end of the world. If you get stuck on a question, stay calm and move on to the next one. You can always come back to it if you have time left. And if you aren't satisfied with your overall score, there is always the option to take the SAT again!

8. Pace yourself: Keep an eye on the clock during the test, but don't let it stress you out. It's crucial to find a balance between speed and accuracy. Accuracy is more important than finishing every question, so focus on answering correctly rather than rushing.

CollegeVine's blog also contains a list of quick tips and tricks that could reassure you and boost your confidence in the final days before the test itself: https://blog.collegevine.com/10-tips-to-improve-your-sat-score/. Remember, you've been preparing for this, and your hard work will pay off. Wishing you the best on your SAT!

6 months ago

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