← All guidesStudy Plans

How Parents Can Help with SAT Prep

Help your child with SAT prep

12 min read

Understanding the Test

The SAT is 2 hours 14 minutes long, with two main sections: Reading and Writing, and Math. Each section is scored from 200 to 800, making a total possible score of 1600. The Digital SAT is section adaptive, meaning the first module determines the difficulty of the second module.

Setting a Study Plan

A study plan can help students stay on track. Students should aim to study for at least 10 hours a week, for 12 weeks before the test. This can be broken down into shorter study sessions, such as 2 hours a day, 5 days a week. Parents can help by setting aside dedicated study space and time.

Providing Resources

Parents can provide access to study materials, such as online courses or practice tests. The official SAT practice test is a good place to start, with 4 full-length practice tests available. Students can also use free online resources, such as Khan Academy, to supplement their studying. Parents can help by researching and providing these resources.

Encouraging Practice

Practice is essential for improving SAT scores. Students should aim to take at least 4 full-length practice tests before the actual test. Parents can help by encouraging students to take practice tests, and reviewing the results with them. This can help identify areas where students need to focus their studying.

Minimizing Distractions

Minimizing distractions is important for effective studying. Parents can help by limiting screen time, and creating a quiet study space. Students should also be encouraged to take breaks, and stay organized, to help manage their time effectively. This can be a tradeoff, as it may mean less free time, but it can be worth it for improved SAT scores.

Tracking Progress

Tracking progress can help students stay motivated, and see the results of their hard work. Parents can help by setting milestones, and tracking scores. Students can also use online tools to track their progress, and identify areas where they need to improve. This can help students stay focused, and make the most of their studying.

Practise what you just read

Take this into the real test interface, with a worked explanation on every question.

Start practising