How to Improve Your SAT Score

Improving your SAT score requires more than just memorizing facts—it’s about building a strategy, targeting weaknesses, and optimizing performance. Whether you're just starting your SAT prep or retaking the test for a better score, this comprehensive guide walks you through the best methods to boost your results.

1. Understand Your Starting Point

Before you can improve your SAT score, you need to understand where you stand. Take a full-length, timed SAT practice test under realistic conditions. Analyze your performance to see which sections need the most improvement—Math, Reading, or Writing & Language.

2. Set a Target Score

Research the average SAT scores of students admitted to your target colleges. Aim for a score that places you within or above their middle 50% range. Having a specific target gives your preparation direction and purpose.

3. Create a Study Plan

Consistency is key. Make a study schedule that fits your availability. Break down your goals by week, focusing on different SAT sections. For example, dedicate Mondays and Wednesdays to Math, Tuesdays to Reading, and Fridays to Writing & Language. Use weekends for full-length practice exams and review.

4. Focus on Your Weaknesses

Spending hours practicing what you already know won’t help you improve. Identify your weakest topics and allocate more time to mastering them. If you struggle with algebraic expressions, data interpretation, or grammar usage, drill those topics using targeted practice materials and explanations.

5. Learn SAT Strategies

Even students with strong academic skills may struggle without knowing how to “play the test.” Learn strategies like:

  • Eliminating clearly wrong answers first
  • Reading questions before reading the passage
  • Plugging in answer choices on Math questions
  • Looking for patterns in grammar questions

6. Build Endurance with Full-Length Tests

The SAT is a long exam, and endurance is a factor. Take at least 3–5 full-length, timed practice exams before test day. This not only helps you get used to pacing but also reduces test-day anxiety. After each test, review every mistake—this is where real improvement happens.

7. Master Time Management

Many students lose points simply because they run out of time. Practice pacing yourself so you don’t spend too long on any single question. Mark difficult questions and come back to them if time allows. On reading passages, practice skimming for structure rather than reading every word slowly.

8. Use Official College Board Materials

While many third-party SAT prep books are helpful, nothing beats the official material. The College Board’s practice tests and SAT Question of the Day are directly aligned with the real exam. Use them to get familiar with the exact wording and difficulty level.

9. Consider a Prep Course or Tutor

If you’re struggling to improve on your own, investing in a prep course or tutor can be worthwhile. Choose programs that offer personalized feedback, adaptive practice questions, and progress tracking. Group classes may also help keep you motivated and on schedule.

10. Improve Vocabulary and Reading Skills

Strong vocabulary helps with both reading comprehension and writing precision. Read high-level articles from sources like The New York Times, The Atlantic, or Scientific American. Learn unfamiliar words in context and create flashcards to reinforce them.

11. Strengthen Mental Math Skills

While calculators are allowed on one math section, being quick with mental math can save time and reduce errors. Practice simplifying expressions, estimating, and solving without a calculator, especially for the No Calculator section.

12. Practice Writing Concisely

Writing and Language questions often require you to choose the most concise and grammatically correct option. Practice rewriting verbose sentences and identifying redundant phrases. Study common grammar rules such as subject-verb agreement, punctuation, modifiers, and verb tense.

13. Track Your Progress

Keep a detailed journal or spreadsheet of your test results, section scores, and the types of questions you miss. This will help you recognize patterns and make informed decisions about what to study next.

14. Reduce Test Anxiety

Test anxiety can seriously hurt your performance. Practice mindfulness techniques, breathing exercises, and visualization to stay calm under pressure. Familiarity with the test format through repeated practice can also reduce nerves.

15. Prepare for Test Day

  • Know the logistics: test center location, required ID, and allowed materials
  • Sleep well for at least two nights before the test
  • Eat a balanced breakfast with protein and complex carbs
  • Arrive early to avoid stress

Bonus: Use High-Quality SAT Apps

Make the most of your downtime by using SAT prep apps while commuting or waiting. Apps like Khan Academy, UWorld, or Ready4 SAT offer interactive quizzes and instant feedback on your phone.

Final Thoughts

Improving your SAT score takes time, commitment, and the right approach. Start early, study smart, and stay consistent. With the right mindset and tools, a higher score—and more college opportunities—are within your reach.