10 SAT Prep Mistakes to Avoid
(And what to do instead!)
1. Don’t Cram
Why It’s a Problem:
Studying in a panic the night before might work for a pop quiz, but the SAT is way more complex. Trying to learn everything at once leads to burnout and confusion.
What to Do Instead:
Give yourself enough time for steady, focused study sessions spread over weeks or months. You’ll remember more and feel less stressed.
2. Don’t Take Practice Tests Without Reviewing Mistakes
Why It’s a Problem:
If you’re not analyzing what went wrong, you’re missing a golden opportunity to learn. Piling on more tests without reflection won’t raise your score.
What to Do Instead:
After each practice test, carefully review every incorrect answer. Figure out why you missed it—did you misread the question, or do you need to brush up on a skill?
3. Don’t Review Mistakes Just Once
Why It’s a Problem:
Glancing at the correct answer once and moving on doesn’t guarantee you’ll remember it later. Repetition cements understanding.
What to Do Instead:
Keep a “mistakes journal” (yep, it’s exactly what it sounds like!). Write down tricky questions and revisit them regularly. That extra exposure ensures you won’t fall for the same traps again.
4. Don’t Assume One Practice Test Score Reflects Your Ability
Why It’s a Problem:
A single score can be misleading—maybe you got lucky with certain question types, or you were having a great (or terrible) day.
What to Do Instead:
Aim for consistency. If you can hit your target score across multiple practice tests, you’ll feel more confident walking in on test day.
5. Don’t Overlook the ACT
Why It’s a Problem:
If the SAT isn’t clicking for you, you might be missing out on a test that could play more to your strengths. Some students find the new enhanced ACT format more straightforward. PS: 2/3 of the composite score is from English and Reading so if Math is not your strength the ACT might be for you!
What to Do Instead:
Take a free practice ACT. Compare your scores. If it feels more natural, consider switching your focus. A better test fit can result in a higher overall score. Visit ACT.org for more information.
6. Don’t Ignore Your Weaker Sections
Why It’s a Problem:
It’s easy to focus on what you’re already good at (hello, confidence boost!). However, if you never address your weaker areas, you’ll continue to lose points there.
What to Do Instead:
Identify your trouble spots early—whether it’s geometry or grammar—and make them a priority in your study plan. Balance is key!
7. Don’t Forget to Time Your Practice Sessions
Why It’s a Problem:
Doing practice questions at a leisurely pace won’t prepare you for the actual test’s time crunch. You might panic or make wild guesses when the clock is ticking.
What to Do Instead:
Use a timer! Replicate real testing conditions as much as possible. You’ll learn to pace yourself, reduce stress, and become more confident.
8. Don’t Practice with Low-Quality Materials
Why It’s a Problem:
Outdated or poorly designed practice questions won’t mirror the true SAT format. If you study the wrong content or question styles, you’ll get a nasty surprise on test day.
What to Do Instead:
Use official SAT practice tests from the College Board or reputable test prep resources. High-quality materials that match the SAT’s style and difficulty level will give you a more accurate sense of your readiness.
9. Don’t Study Without Breaks
Why It’s a Problem:
Spending six hours straight with your nose in a book can lead to exhaustion and diminishing returns.
What to Do Instead:
Break it up! Study in focused blocks (e.g., 45-60 minutes), then take short breaks to recharge. You’ll stay fresh, retain more, and avoid burnout.
10. Don’t Forget to Track Your Progress
Why It’s a Problem:
If you don’t track your scores over time, you won’t see what’s really improving—or not.
What to Do Instead:
Keep a log of your practice test results, noting any recurring trouble spots (like a certain math topic or reading passage type). Check back regularly to see how you’re improving. This approach keeps you honest about what’s working—and motivates you when you see those numbers go up!
Ready to Level Up Your Test Prep?
Avoiding these “don’ts” can make a big difference in your score! If this sounds like a lot to tackle on your own, Test Preps is here to help you every step of the way!
Our small-group classes and private tutoring sessions teach and practice the strategies you need to improve your SAT score while reviewing content from your high school curriculum, which is tested on the SAT. And yes, we’ll help you avoid these 10 common SAT mistakes!
Reach out today and get on the fast track to your best SAT (or ACT) score!