Hey guys, feeling a tiny bit stressed here, not gonna lie. I'm about to start my junior year and I'm wondering when I should start preparing for the SAT. Is it better to wait until closer to the test date or start studying as early as possible so I have more time to get through everything?
Starting early is generally better when it comes to SAT prep as it allows you to build your skills over time, especially critical reading and comprehension skills, which aren't things you can cram at the last minute. Depending on when you plan to take the exam, starting your prep this summer could be a good idea, so that you can concentrate on studying for the exam without the added pressure of schoolwork.
That being said, everyone studies differently. Some students may have trouble concentrating if the exam is too far out. For example, if you're not going to take the SAT until spring of next year, you may be better served waiting until winter break to start hitting the books.
Overall, you want to aim for consistent, sustainable practice with good quality resources so you totally master the test format, the types of questions, and how to approach each section. You also want to make sure you have time to take multiple practice tests, to track your progress, evaluate your strengths and weaknesses, and shift your study strategy accordingly. While there's no hard and fast rule, usually 2-3 months of dedicated studying before your test date is a good target.
To learn more about the ideal SAT-taking timeline for you personally, I'd check out this blog post from CollegeVine: https://blog.collegevine.com/not-sure-when-to-take-the-satact-heres-your-guide/. Good luck with your prep and remember, staying disciplined, consistent, and taking occasional breaks is key to avoid burnout and to keep you motivated!
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