With the introduction of the new digital SAT format looming, we wanted to write this blog in order to help students feeling nervous about the changes have an idea of what to expect and approach their test with confidence.
Our expert tutors, who have helped hundreds of students improve their SAT scores, have come together to give you 5 tips for the digital SAT.
1. Use the Second Half First Strategy
One technique we recommend for the Reading and Writing section of the digital SAT is the “Second Half First” strategy. It means completing the second half of the Reading and Writing section (questions 16-27) before questions 1-15.
Why? The questions in the second half of the Reading and Writing section are actually much quicker to answer. The second half of the test is full of grammar and punctuation questions, but the first half is geared more toward the challenging reading comprehension questions. By having scored the easy points first, you’ve built yourself a buffer and gain more time to focus on doing well in the first half.
2. Learn to Use Desmos
Desmos is an online graphing calculator that we recommend students familiarize themselves with before the SAT. Many students may already be familiar with Desmos from time spent using it in class, but it’s not uncommon or unhelpful to need a refresher. There are plenty of resources online devoted to figuring out your calculator and we recommend you spend some time watching them.
Here are a few ways Desmos can help you score higher on the SAT math section:
- Graphing Functions: Desmos allows you to quickly plot functions to visualize their behavior and identify key features such as intercepts and turning points.
- Solving Equations: Desmos allows you to solve equations and systems of equations graphically, which can be faster than solving them algebraically.
- Exploring Transformations: Desmos allows you to experiment with transformations of functions to better understand their effects and applications.
3. Learn the Bluebook App
The Bluebook app is the platform the digital SAT is administered through. Becoming familiar with the app and its features ahead of time helps in guaranteeing a smooth test-day experience.
Here are a few things you should learn how to do before test day:
- Markup Tools: Learn how to highlight and underline text to help you quickly reference important information during the Reading section.
- Crossing Out Answer Choices: Practice using the tool to eliminate incorrect answer choices, which can help you narrow down your options.
- Navigation: Get comfortable with the app’s navigation features so you can easily move between questions and sections.
4. Be Strategic with Your College Board Practice Tests
The College Board provides six official practice tests for the digital SAT. That may sound like a lot, but it isn’t. Given the limited number of these tests, it’s important to use them wisely. After you’ve seen the practice test for the first time, afterwards, you won’t truly have an authentic testing experience and your practice scores might not accurately reflect your potential or areas of improvement needed.
Here’s how to make the most out of your practice tests:
- Spread Out Practice Tests: Don’t use all the practice tests at once. Instead, space them out over your study period to continuously assess your progress and identify areas for improvement.
- Simulate Test Conditions: Take the practice tests under realistic test conditions to get accustomed to the timing and format of the digital SAT.
- Review Thoroughly: After each practice test, review your answers carefully. Identify the types of questions you missed and focus your study efforts on those areas.
5. Keep Building Your Vocabulary
Vocabulary plays a big part in the digital SAT, more so than it has in previous versions of the test. To do well on this section of the test, you need to have a strong command of SAT-level vocabulary.
Here are some tips to build your vocabulary:
- SAT Vocab Cards: Use SAT vocabulary cards to learn and review essential words regularly.
- Reading: Read widely from diverse sources, including literature, academic journals, and articles, to encounter new words in context.
- Tutoring Resources: Utilize vocabulary lists provided by your Marks Education SAT tutor. These lists are tailored to the test and will help you focus on the most relevant words.
Conclusion
Preparing for the digital SAT can be challenging, but with the right strategies and resources, you can maximize your performance. By implementing the “Second Half First” strategy, utilizing Desmos, familiarizing yourself with the Bluebook app, strategically using practice tests, and building a robust vocabulary, you can approach the test with confidence. But if you’re still feeling unsure, Marks Education is here to help!
Digital SAT tutoring provides personalized support to help you navigate these strategies and achieve your best results. Don’t hesitate to book a session with a professional tutor to ensure you’re fully prepared for test day. Contact Marks Education today and refer to this blog and receive a FREE CONSULTATION! Learn how we can help you do your best this testing season
