First SAT Test, when to take it?

I've been feeling the pressure from everyone around me about taking my first SAT, does anyone have any advice? In your experience, when’s the best time to start the test-taking process? How did you decide on timing when you took your first SAT?

Typically, most students take their first SAT in the spring of their junior year in high school. The reason for this is that by this point, you will have covered most of the material on the SAT in your classes. Also, taking the SAT in the spring gives you the summer before senior year to study and retake the test in August or September if needed, in time for Early Action and Early Decision applications in the fall.

However, keep in mind that this common timeline can still vary based on individual circumstances. For example, if you feel you're already prepared or you want to get some practice under test conditions, you might consider taking the SAT earlier. Conversely, if you're enrolled in a rigorous course load or involved in time-demanding activities, you might want to delay your first test date to have sufficient time to prepare.

The key here is to establish your own timeline based on your personal circumstances, study habits, extracurricular commitments, and level of preparation. It's beneficial to identify where you currently stand academically by using SAT prep books or taking full-length practice tests available on resources like the College Board's website. This can help you have a clearer picture of the areas you need to focus on and thereby decide the optimum time for you to take your first SAT. No need to bow down to the pressure from others – align your test timeline in a way that best suits your schedule and preparation level.