An SAT study plan for the first month of a two-month period

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Introduction

Preparing for the SAT in just two months can be a challenging but achievable goal with a structured and focused study plan. In the previous blog, we discussed the 8-week study plan breakdown. The first month is crucial for building a solid foundation, identifying areas of improvement, and developing effective test-taking strategies. Here’s a week-by-week guide to help you navigate the first month of your SAT preparation journey.

Week 1: Diagnostic Test and Initial Assessment

Day 1-2: Take a Full-Length Practice Test

  • Kick off your SAT prep by taking a full-length, timed practice test. This will help you establish a baseline score and identify your strengths and weaknesses.
  • Use an official SAT practice test from the College Board for the most accurate representation of the actual exam.

Day 3-4: Analyze Your Test Results

  • Thoroughly review your practice test results. Identify the questions you got wrong and understand why you missed them—was it due to a lack of knowledge, a careless mistake, or time management issues?
  • Categorize your mistakes to pinpoint specific areas (Reading, Writing & Language, Math) that require improvement.

Day 5-7: Build Your Foundation

  • Start reviewing fundamental concepts in each section. For Reading, focus on understanding passage structures and identifying main ideas. For Writing & Language, review grammar rules and sentence structure. For Math, revisit essential topics such as algebra and geometry.
  • Set aside dedicated time slots for each section to ensure a balanced study routine.

Week 2: Focus on Individual Sections

Day 1-3: Reading Section

  • Learn and practice reading comprehension strategies. Focus on identifying main ideas, supporting details, and making inferences.
  • Practice with a variety of passage types (literary, historical, social science, natural science) to become comfortable with different topics.

Day 4-5: Writing & Language Section

  • Review essential grammar rules and conventions. Pay attention to punctuation, verb tense, and sentence structure.
  • Practice identifying and correcting errors in sample passages. Use official practice questions to familiarize yourself with the test format.

Day 6-7: Math Section

  • Review key math concepts, focusing on algebra, geometry, and basic trigonometry. Ensure you understand the fundamental principles and can apply them to different types of problems.
  • Practice solving problems from different categories (Heart of Algebra, Problem Solving and Data Analysis, Passport to Advanced Math).

Week 3: Continued Sectional Practice

Day 1-3: Reading Section Practice

  • Continue practicing reading passages. Focus on timing to ensure you can complete each passage within the allotted time.
  • Work on summarizing passages quickly and efficiently, and practice answering questions accurately under time constraints.

Day 4-5: Writing & Language Section Practice

  • Continue practicing with sample passages. Pay attention to commonly tested grammar rules and stylistic choices.
  • Work on improving your speed and accuracy in identifying and correcting errors.

Day 6-7: Math Section Practice

  • Focus on practicing different types of math problems. Time yourself to ensure you can solve problems quickly and accurately.
  • Review any mistakes you make and understand why you made them. This will help you avoid similar mistakes in the future.

Week 4: Full-Length Practice Test and Review

Day 1-2: Take Another Full-Length Practice Test

  • Take a second full-length, timed practice test to gauge your progress. Simulate test day conditions as closely as possible.
  • Try to improve your time management and apply the strategies you’ve learned so far.

Day 3-4: Analyze Your Test Results

  • Review your second practice test in detail. Identify any persistent weaknesses and note any improvements.
  • Focus on understanding why you got certain questions wrong and how you can correct these mistakes in the future.

Day 5-7: Targeted Practice and Review

  • Use your analysis from the second practice test to guide your studies. Focus on the areas where you still need improvement.
  • Continue practicing with official SAT questions and review key concepts.

Conclusion

The first month of SAT prep is all about building a strong foundation and understanding where you stand. By following this week-by-week guide, you’ll develop a solid grasp of the test format, identify your strengths and weaknesses, and make significant progress in your preparation. Stay consistent, practice regularly, and remember that improvement takes time and effort. Keep pushing forward, and you’ll be well-prepared for the SAT. Good luck!