subject: Crack the SAT With Perfection [print this page] SAT has three major sections: Critical Reading, Mathematics, and Writing which are further divided into three sections. In every major section, the test taker can be score between 200800 marks and scores are always in multiples of 10. Apart from the 9 sections there is a 10th section the 25-minute long "equating" section that might appear in any of the three major sections. The duration is 3 hours and 45 minutes but the total time including introduction, material distribution, entering details and breaks make the total to about 4 hours and 30 minutes. Usually easier questions come at the beginning of the section and harder ones at the end.
SAT is required for judging a student's ability to join a college program. Every SAT test taker is expected to have a lot of questions about the test and they can easily be answered by practicing SAT questions until one develops a solid feel about what to expect in the test. SAT basically tests a student's learning gathered in the school years and thus studying is not necessary but it helps. Unlike mid-term and final exams you need not study a particular syllabus in order to take the test. The SAT exam tests students' understanding of English and Mathematics and thus a quick review of high-school level study material should suffice as far as study requirement goes.
But the real preparation lies in practicing SAT questions over and over again until there are no surprises left to worry about. A student will instinctively develop a feel about the kind of questions to expect and also will also readily understand questions seen in the test on exam day.
It is a good idea to start studying, reviewing, practicing and assessing practice test once a student registers for the SAT. Unlike other exams, late minute cramming of notes is of little use in the SAT. What one needs is confidence that can only be developed by having taken enough SAT practice questions before the real test. The night before the exam should ideally be spent in relaxation and sound sleep rather than anxious review of notes and expected questions.
SAT practice tests are available both freely as well as through paid subscriptions. Although the free tests won't be updated to the most recent standards, they are enough to get one started. One should ideally join a SAT preparatory course in a classroom or online program and take as many practice tests as possible. There are many free practice tests available on the official SAT website as well. The paid sites provide a history of the scores and also provide statistics that help one understand the weak points better. There are many printed SAT practice guides for those who prefer to study away from the computer.
A good SAT prep course will keep a student disciplined, on the mark, sharp and will provide the students with ample tips and pitfalls to watch out for. They impart the importance of time management, which is critical and also help one in knowing one's strong and weak points.
