How to Select SAT Prep Books
As you prepare for the SAT, you may discover that you need help. An intensive test prep course may not be the best answer, however. Instead, guiding your own study with the help of SAT prep books may be a better option. It's just a matter of making sure that you select the right one for your study needs.
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Instructions
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Take a practice test before you select a specific test prep book. A practice test can help you diagnose your weaknesses and decide what areas you need to study.
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Choose a book that addresses your specific weaknesses. For instance, if you scored poorly on the math section, you may want to select a book that focuses on reviewing math material. Some books also offer help with general test-taking strategies, like improving your use of time or smart guessing if you can't find the right answer.
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Pick a book with extra practice tests, or purchase a practice-test book. Taking additional practice tests can improve your score further, as well as provide you with a way to track your progress. Keep in mind that some books only have sample questions, not full practice tests.
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Avoid books that use confusing techniques or designs. Instead, select a book that is easy to understand and use. You should be able to write in the book, practice problems and take notes as well.
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Follow your book's structure to make the most use of it. Most books are written to proceed through progressively harder material, so they can be harder to use if you skip around.
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Tips & Warnings
Explore your options. A number of companies produce and sell SAT prep books, including the College Board, which oversees the SAT.
Select the option that is most comfortable for you. For some students, computer-based prep materials may work well. However, books may be a better choice for some because they more closely mimic the test and can help students get used to working with paper and pencil.
If you find that you are struggling with your test prep despite having appropriate books, you may need to consider other preparation methods, including tutoring, classes or different prep materials.
Don't cram. Spend lots of time reading your test prep book and preparing instead. Cramming the night before the SAT, no matter how good your test prep materials are, is not likely to improve your score significantly.
