If you’re starting to think about the college admissions process but it seems to early to begin test prep, there are still a ton of great things you can do. Here are five great ways to make the most of the time you have.
- Read.
Even though you’re doing a lot of reading in school, you’re probably mostly used to analyzing literature. Only one out of the five reading passages on the SAT is from a piece of fiction, however. Get in the habit of reading your local newspaper or a national publication like The New York Times, Popular Science, or Time. You’ll be a better citizen of humanity, and you’ll improve your vocabulary and reading comprehension too!
- Brush up on your formulas.
From the vertex form of a parabola to quadratic factoring patterns like difference of squares, the SAT tests your knowledge of formulas you had to memorize in school. It may have been a while since you’ve thought about some of these topics (like finding the slope of a line), but now’s the time to start.
- Become a grammar pro.
Do you know how to properly use a semi-colon? What’s the difference between a coordinating and subordinating conjunction? The SAT tests students on a consistent list of grammar rules, and learning them now will save you time and hassle later.
- Do a little bit every day.
At this point, consistency is key, and you can use the luxury of time to your advantage. Read an article or two or learn a new grammar rule every day, and the things you’ve learned will stick with you for longer. “Slow and steady wins the race” is a cliché for a reason!
- Take a practice test.
When you feel ready, take an SAT practice test. It will help you get a sense of your score range and provide a portrait of your testing strengths and weaknesses. Compass offers complimentary, obligation-free practice test sessions virtually every weekend. For more information or to sign up for a practice test, click here.
