How I Compiled the Best SAT Resources for Free (And How You Can Too)
If you’re preparing for the SAT, you’ve probably noticed how overwhelming it can be to sift through study materials. Between expensive prep courses, outdated books, and vague online advice, finding reliable resources feels like a part-time job. That’s why I decided to save you the hassle. After months of research, trial-and-error, and conversations with tutors and top scorers, I’ve compiled a treasure trove of free SAT resources that actually work. Let’s dive in.
—
Start with the Source: Official SAT Materials
The College Board, the organization behind the SAT, offers the most authentic practice materials—and they’re completely free. Many students skip this step, assuming they need fancier tools, but this is like ignoring a map while hiking. Here’s what to use:
1. Khan Academy SAT Prep
Partnered with the College Board, Khan Academy provides personalized practice questions, video lessons, and full-length practice tests. The best part? It adapts to your strengths and weaknesses. If you bomb a geometry section, it’ll serve extra practice problems until you improve.
2. Official SAT Practice Tests
The College Board releases past SAT exams for free. These are gold because they mirror the actual test’s format, wording, and difficulty. Download all 10 available tests, and use them strategically. Pro tip: Save Tests 9 and 10 for your final weeks—they’re the most recent and reflect current trends.
3. Question Bank
The SAT Question Bank lets you filter questions by topic and difficulty. Struggling with quadratic equations? Pull 20 related problems and drill them.
—
Math Made Manageable
For many students, the math section is a nightmare. But free tools can turn confusion into confidence:
– Desmos Calculator: Did you know the SAT allows calculator use for part of the math section? Desmos, a free online graphing calculator, can solve equations, plot graphs, and even animate functions. It’s like having a tutor in your browser.
– YouTube Channels: Channels like Scalar Learning and The Organic Chemistry Tutor break down SAT math concepts in bite-sized videos. Search for specific topics (“SAT systems of equations”) instead of watching generic playlists.
– College Board’s Daily Practice App: This app sends one SAT math question to your phone daily. It takes two minutes and keeps your skills sharp.
—
Reading and Writing: Crack the Code
The evidence-based reading and writing sections test logic as much as vocabulary. Here’s how to prep without spending a dime:
1. Digital SAT Reading Guides
Websites like Erica Meltzer’s Blog (free sections) and CrackSAT.net offer strategy breakdowns. Learn how to spot “main idea” questions or tackle paired passages without panicking.
2. Vocabulary Builders
Forget memorizing obscure words. The SAT focuses on context. Use apps like Quizlet to study high-frequency SAT vocabulary sets. Search “SAT vocabulary 2024” for updated lists.
3. Grammar Practice
Websites like Grammarly and EnglishPage have free exercises for comma rules, subject-verb agreement, and parallelism—all SAT favorites.
—
Simulate Test Day (Without the Stress)
Taking practice tests isn’t enough—you need to replicate test conditions. Here’s how:
– Time Yourself: Use a basic timer app to stick to section limits. The SAT is a marathon; pacing matters.
– Print Practice Tests: If you’re taking the paper SAT, print the tests. If you’re opting for the digital SAT, practice on a laptop with the Bluebook™ Testing App (available for free download).
– Review Mistakes Religiously: After each test, categorize errors: “careless mistakes,” “content gaps,” or “time management.” Focus your study plan accordingly.
—
Join the Community
You’re not alone! Free forums and groups offer support and insider tips:
– Reddit’s r/SAT: Thousands of students share study schedules, resource recommendations, and pep talks. Search for “free resources” or “high scorers AMA” threads.
– Discord Study Groups: Many SAT-focused servers host virtual study sessions and resource-sharing channels.
—
Final Tips to Maximize Free Resources
1. Consistency > Cramming: Spend 30 minutes daily instead of 5 hours once a week.
2. Mix Resources: Combine Khan Academy’s structure with YouTube’s visual explanations for a well-rounded approach.
3. Track Progress: Use a spreadsheet or notebook to log scores, weak areas, and breakthroughs.
—
You’ve Got This!
The SAT isn’t about being “naturally smart”—it’s about preparation. With the right free tools, a clear plan, and grit, you can outwork the test. Bookmark this guide, pick 2-3 resources to start with, and build momentum. And hey, once you ace the SAT, pay it forward by sharing your own tips with someone else.
Now go crush that study session! 🚀
Please indicate: Thinking In Educating » How I Compiled the Best SAT Resources for Free (And How You Can Too)