The SAT can be a stressful experience, with students sometimes feeling that their whole future is riding on one standardized test. Read on to learn how to study for the SATs.

• The SAT Reasoning Test, commonly referred to as the SAT, was first used in 1926. Although the SAT is not a test of academic knowledge, and can't be studied for per se, preparation has been shown to have a significant impact on students' scores. If you understand the test, prepare for it, and use appropriate test taking strategies on exam day, you'll be ready to get the best score you can.

• The SAT is designed to test critical thinking and problem solving skills, and is used by some colleges and universities as a predictor of success in college.

1. The test consists of 10 separate sections which are administered over a three hour a 45 minute period.
2. Three scores are produced, each with a range from 200-800:
   1. Critical reading
   2. Mathematics
   3. Writing
3. The SAT includes several types of questions:
   1. Multiple-choice questions
   2. Student-produced responses in mathematics
   3. One essay question

(Creative Commons photo by The Brass Potato)

• Preparation for the SAT should begin on the College Board website, where you can take a practice test, review test questions, and even register to receive the SAT question of the day. There are a number of supplemental methods you can use to prepare for the SAT as well:

1. Commercial SAT prep courses are offered by companies such as Kaplan and Princeton Review.
2. A free online SAT prep course is offered by Number2.com.
3. Self-study books and software programs are available.

• There are some test taking strategies you can use on test day to help you do your best:

1. Points are deducted for wrong answers, so random guessing will hurt your score. Only guess if you can eliminate at least one choice.
2. Learn the section directions before the exam. Use the time saved during the test to work on questions.
3. Answer easy questions first, marking the questions you skipped in your exam book so you can return to them later.
4. Fill the bubbles in carefully, as the test is machine-scored.

• Although you can't study for the material on the SAT, you can practice and prepare for the types of questions you're apt to encounter. Investing time to prepare ahead of time will help ensure you get the best score possible on the SAT.

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