Top Strategies to Improve SAT Scores After Taking the PSAT
Why the PSAT Matters for SAT Preparation
The PSAT provides a preview of the SAT, allowing students to assess strengths and areas for improvement. Students who analyze their PSAT results can use them to target study efforts and increase SAT scores.
According to the College Board, students who practice strategically and focus on weak areas identified on the PSAT see measurable score improvements on the SAT. (Source: College Board)
Top Strategies to Boost SAT Scores
1. Analyze PSAT Results Carefully
PSAT score reports provide section breakdowns and skill-level feedback. Parents and students should review:
Strengths in Reading, Writing, and Math
Areas that need improvement
Patterns in missed questions
This analysis allows students to prioritize their study plan for the SAT.
2. Focus on Weak Areas
Students often improve the most by concentrating on sections where they struggled on the PSAT. For example:
If data interpretation in Math was challenging, dedicate time to practice graphs, tables, and problem-solving
If reading comprehension was difficult, practice identifying main ideas and understanding complex texts
3. Practice With Official Materials
Use official SAT practice questions and full-length practice exams. Familiarity with question types and formatsincreases speed and confidence.
4. Develop Test-Taking Strategies
Effective strategies include:
Answering easier questions first and returning to harder questions
Using process-of-elimination for multiple-choice questions
Monitoring time per section to avoid rushing
5. Strengthen Digital Skills
The SAT is now primarily digital, so students should practice navigating online tools, highlighting text, and managing digital time efficiently.
6. Take Targeted Practice Tests
After focused preparation, taking practice SAT tests under timed conditions helps students measure progress and adjust strategies before test day.
7. Consider Integrated SAT and ACT Prep
Since many skills overlap, preparing for both exams simultaneously can reinforce critical thinking, reading comprehension, and math reasoning, saving time and improving results on either test.
How Smart Push Boot Camps Support SAT Score Improvement
At Smart Push Academic Coaching, our SAT Boot Camps provide students with:
Two days of live virtual instruction (4 hours each, 8 hours total)
Targeted practice based on PSAT results
Strategies to improve speed and accuracy on Reading, Writing, and Math
Guidance on digital test navigation
Integrated preparation for both SAT and ACT
Students leave the boot camp with clear strategies, improved skills, and confidence to achieve their best SAT scores.
Take Action Now
Analyzing PSAT performance and applying targeted strategies is the most effective way to improve SAT scores. Early preparation, practice, and focused review can significantly enhance test results and open doors to scholarships and college opportunities.
Reserve your student’s spot today at thesmartpush.com