Is a 960 on the SAT a good starting point?

I recently took the SAT and got a 960. I know it's not super high, but I'm just starting my junior year. Is this a good starting point for me? Any advice on improvement strategies as I prepare for future SAT attempts?

A 960 on the SAT is a decent starting point, especially considering you are just beginning your junior year. You have plenty of time to study, practice, and improve your score before college applications. Keep in mind that the national average SAT score is around 1060, so you're not too far below that and have room for growth.

To improve your SAT score, follow these strategies:

1. Understand your strengths and weaknesses: Carefully review your SAT score report, paying attention to the sections and question types you missed. This analysis will help you target your studies and focus on areas that require improvement.

2. Create a study plan: Set a goal score and establish a study schedule. Dedicate a specific amount of time each day or week to practice and review, making sure to allocate time for both test content and test-taking strategies.

3. Use official study materials: The College Board provides a variety of study materials, such as the Official SAT Study Guide and free online resources with Khan Academy. These materials include practice tests, explanations, and sample questions to help you get familiar with the test format and content.

4. Practice, practice, practice: Regularly taking full-length practice tests is essential for building stamina, familiarizing yourself with the test format, and tracking your progress. Analyze your practice test results to identify areas for improvement and adjust your study plan accordingly.

5. Consider test prep resources: If you need extra help, consider enrolling in an SAT prep course, hiring a tutor, or using test prep books. These resources can provide additional practice, tips, and personalized guidance to help you improve your score.

6. Build foundational skills: To improve your score, work on building solid reading, writing, and math skills. Develop your vocabulary, practice reading and annotating complex texts, work on your grammar, and strengthen your mathematical foundation.

7. Learn strategies and pacing: Familiarize yourself with test-taking strategies, such as how to eliminate incorrect answer choices, guess effectively, and manage your time. Pacing is crucial for the SAT, as it ensures you allocate enough time to complete each section.

8. Stay consistent and remain positive: Improvement takes time and consistent effort. Stay disciplined in your studies and maintain a positive mindset. Believing in your ability to improve can make a significant difference in your performance.

Remember, the SAT score is just one part of your college application. While it's important to do your best, focus on other aspects of your application too, including extracurriculars, essays, and letters of recommendation.