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Duke University
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Unweighted GPA: 3.7
1.0
4.0
SAT: 720 math
200
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| 800 verbal
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Tackling tough SAT questions: Tips?

What's up guys? I'm diving headfirst into SAT prep and I am struggling a bit with the more difficult questions. Does anyone have any advice or resources on how to approach and solve tough SAT questions? Your help would be amazing!

8 months ago

Hello! It's great to hear that you're diving into SAT prep. Tackling those tough questions can be challenging, but with the right strategies and practice, you can definitely improve. Here are a few tips you might find helpful:

1. Identify question types: It's important to recognize different question types in each section, as your approach may differ for each. Be familiar with evidence-based reading questions, grammar rules tested, and various math concepts included on the SAT.

2. Elimination: Elimination is key when you're unsure about an answer. Cross out choices that you know are incorrect, which narrows down your options and increases the probability of selecting the correct answer.

3. Practice active reading: For the reading and writing sections, make sure you're reading the passages actively—underline important information, jot down notes in the margins, and summarize paragraphs in your own words. This way, you're more engaged and better prepared to answer questions about the content.

4. Plug and chug: In math, this means substituting answer choices back into the original equation to see which works. If you're unsure how to approach a problem, this technique can save time and help you determine the correct answer.

5. Timing: Work on your pacing and time management during practice tests. Give yourself a set amount of time for each question, depending on the difficulty level, and use a timer if needed. This will train you to work efficiently under time pressure.

6. Review your mistakes: After taking practice tests or completing practice problems, thoroughly review the questions you got wrong or struggled with. Understand why you made the mistakes and learn from them. This will help you avoid making the same errors in the future.

For resources, Khan Academy is a popular and free choice for SAT test prep, as they have partnered with College Board to provide official practice tests and tailored study materials. Remember, practice makes perfect! The more you work on tackling tough questions, the more confident and prepared you'll be on test day. Good luck!

8 months ago

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