SAT
What’s on the SAT?
The SAT has been evolving since it was introduced in the 1920s. It underwent another big change in 2005–that’s when, with the addition of the Writing section, a perfect SAT score changed from a 1600 to a 2400.
Despite the changes in the test, it’s still pretty easy to predict what will be on the SAT. The SAT tests a limited number of topics in a fairly predictable way. Currently the SAT tests Math spanning from arithmetic to some very basic introductory Algebra II. The Reading Comprehension section tests vocabulary and both short and long passage reading comprehension; the analogies were removed in 2005. The new Writing section includes a 25 minute essay and multiple choice questions that correct grammatically incorrect sentences.
How do I choose between the SAT and the ACT?
We cannot emphasize this enough: whether you take the ACT or SAT is entirely a matter of preference. While it may have been true years ago that Ivy League schools preferred the SAT to the ACT, that’s no longer accurate. We’ve seen students accepted to Ivy League schools with high scores on both the SAT and the ACT.
We’ve created a page with a comparison of the SAT vs the ACT that includes access to sample tests and more thorough advice on how to decide which test is better for you.
OUTSMARTING the SAT by Elizabeth King
OUTSMARTING the SAT by Elizabeth King (Ten Speed Press) is the critically acclaimed book that solidified Elizabeth’s credentials as one of the leading SAT preparation experts teaching in the United States right now. It’s the book the big test prep companies love to hate. Developed from her years of experience teaching students from all over the country, OUTSMARTING the SAT pulls no punches: it teaches students what they need to know for the test and how the questions are asked. There’s no drama and no cutting corners; the book is just full of smart, easy to understand lessons that educate students and empower them to earn their very best score on the test. To get more info (and sample materials) about OUTSMARTING the SAT here.
Next Test Dates
| DATE | Subject Tests? | Register-by Date | Late Registration |
| 1/28/12 | YES | 12/30/11 | 1/13/12 |
| 3/10/12 | NO | 2/10/12 | 2/24/12 |
| 5/5/12 | YES | 5/5/12 | 4/20/12 |
| 6/2/12 | YES | 5/8/12 | 5/22/12 |
When Should I Begin Studying for the SAT?
Short answer? Depends how much time you have? The answer is usually “the sooner the better.” We recommend beginning vocabulary preparation as early as possible (including middle school), but active preparation is usually best begun the summer before the student’s Junior year. Students take the PSAT in October of their Junior years, and that score will notify colleges of your potential. The October PSAT is also the qualifying test for the National Merit Scholar Award.
Remember, the best way to prepare for the SAT Reading Comprehension section is by reading every day. If you’ve fallen out of the habit, check out our Recommended Reading for SAT Prep (students have added to it themselves!) and get the books at our store, the Elizabeth King Coaching Smart Shop!
