Self-Study Plan for the SAT: Can It Work?

So I’m planning to tackle the SAT, but frankly, all the prep courses are out of my budget. Does anyone have success stories or tips for creating an effective SAT self-study plan? Did you use books, online resources, or anything else? Seriously need some wisdom here, folks!

Absolutely, self-studying for the SAT can be very effective, as long as you're disciplined and use the right resources. Many students can't afford prep courses and still manage to score well through self-study.

Start with the Official SAT Study Guide by The College Board, as it provides actual past exams. Online resources like Khan Academy are invaluable because they're partnered with The College Board and offer free personalized practice. And while test prep books like those from the Princeton Review can also be pricey, they're a lot cheaper than a full prep course, so if they're within your budget investing in one can be a good idea.

In terms of approach, create a study schedule that fits your weekly routine, and try to be consistent with it. Practice a little every day instead of cramming, as this helps with long-term retention of the material.

For every practice test you do, spend time reviewing your mistakes to understand where you went wrong, and potentially even the questions you got right to ensure your thought process was correct. Also, if there are areas where you're struggling, don't hesitate to ask for help. This could be from your teachers, friends who've taken the SAT, or online forums where you can find people who're studying or have taken the test.

Remember, the key is to start early, so you aren't rushed and to dedicate time to both practice and review consistently. Stick with it, and you’ll see improvement over time! Best of luck, and be proud of yourself for tackling your SAT prep on your own!