Mastering the SATs is no easy feat, but with the right approach and guidance, you can achieve your target scores and unlock the doors to your future success. As a dedicated SAT tutor with years of experience, I have empowered countless students to reach their goals and conquer this seemingly daunting test. Allow me to share with you the single most effective strategy that can elevate your performance to new heights.
Picture this: Meet Kushan, a bright student who consistently excelled in the Math section but struggled to meet his desired scores in the Reading and Writing section. Determined to raise his 590 score to a 700+, Kushan and I devised a crack-changing plan. The crux of this plan involved a simple yet powerful technique: after attempting practice questions, he would jot down why he selected a particular answer. Then, we’d review his reasoning together, and he would further reflect on his mistakes, noting the valuable lessons learned from each misstep. This targeted approach not only improved his performance but also honed his understanding and analytical skills.
By consistently implementing this practice and meticulously journaling his progress, Kushan’s scores began to soar, consistently ranging between 730 and 770. We diligently revisited his mistakes after every practice session, fostering a deeper understanding of his weaknesses and transforming them into strengths. The result? On the official test day, Kushan triumphed with a remarkable 760 in Reading and Writing and an impressive 790 in Math, achieving an outstanding total score of 1550.
I understand that scrutinizing your mistakes may feel uncomfortable. As a fellow chess player, I can relate to the frustration of analyzing blunders after a tough loss. However, I can attest that the most significant growth often arises from uncomfortable measures. Embracing this truth, I forced myself to study my chess moves and journal my mistakes. Within two months, my rating on Chess.com skyrocketed from 860 to the 1300 range. I even went the extra mile by holding myself accountable with candid self-critiques for even the silliest of blunders. This same dedication, albeit in a slightly gentler manner, is what I impart to my students.
At UniHawk, we go above and beyond for our students. We nominate them into specific target score brackets, ensuring focused and tailored guidance. For instance, for the upcoming August 26th test, I have nominated four students in the 1550 – 1600 score bracket. Each student receives personalized attention as we thoroughly analyze their homework and mock test mistakes, providing detailed feedback for every question. Not stopping there, we encourage them to read their own feedback, fostering self-awareness and accountability. Together, we delve into their thought processes, addressing how certain words or phrases in questions can lead to misinterpretations and pitfalls.
As we approach the August test, excitement fills the air at UniHawk. I am confident that our students are armed with the right techniques, solid content knowledge, and effective test-taking strategies. With unwavering dedication and strategic preparation, they are primed to conquer the SATs and unlock their true potential.
So, if you’re ready to embark on this journey of growth and excellence, remember this invaluable advice: Embrace your mistakes, learn from them, and let them propel you toward success. With the right mindset and a well-crafted plan, you too can ace your next digital SAT test and set the course for a bright future.
By Javid Reyaz, Director – Test Prep & Exam Prep
