SAT performance is closely associated with the courses taken in high school, the number of years spent studying core subjects, and the rigor of a student’s curriculum. Contrary to popular opinion, cramming and short-term prep cannot substitute for hard work in school when preparing for the SAT. A number of credible, independent research studies show that the average score gain resulting from short-term test preparation is very similar to the average score gain resulting from testing a second time.
Large-scale evaluations of coaching conducted over the past 10 years provide a general consensus on its average effect on admission exam performance — a positive effect that is small in magnitude. The effect of coaching tends to be larger on the math section of the exam (10-20 points) than for the critical reading section (5-10 points).
–NACAC discussion paper:
Preparation for College Entrance Exams (2009)
While there is no substitute for real learning, students often find it useful to familiarize themselves with the SAT format and question types in advance of test day. In order to help students get familiar with the test, the College Board uses retired test content to create free practice tools that are available on the SAT student web site, including:
Practice Questions and Test-Taking Tips
The SAT student website features free practice resources such as SAT test directions, sample questions, test-taking approaches and an official practice test.
Getting Ready for the SAT
This downloadable booklet contains important information about the SAT, the types of questions on each section and how to prepare for test day.
Official Practice Test
A full-length practice test with immediate scoring capability is available online. The test includes an essay section. Students can choose to print out the test for a paper version.
The Official SAT Question of the Day™
A free daily practice SAT question that can be accessed online or received by email. Hints and detailed answer explanations are provided for each question.
SAT Skills Insight™
An online tool that outlines the academic skills tested on the SAT.