How to Get Started with SAT Prep: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginner

In this blog post, we’re diving into everything you need to know to kick off your SAT prep journey—whether you're starting from scratch or just looking for a clearer path forward. With the right strategies and free resources from the College Board, you can confidently build a study plan, predict your score range, and track your improvement along the way.

Step 1: Use Official College Board Resources

The first and most important place to begin your SAT preparation is the College Board website. This is the official organization that designs and administers the SAT. They offer seven full-length, free practice tests that are invaluable for building your baseline and improving over time.

Additionally, you’ll want to download the Bluebook™ app, which is how the digital SAT is administered. Most students will take the SAT on a laptop or school device, so practicing within this app simulates the real test-day environment. You can find practice tests within the app as well.

Step 2: Download and Print Paper-Based Practice Tests

Even though the SAT is now digital, printed practice tests are a powerful tool for baseline assessment. On the College Board website, you can download zip files that contain:

• Two modules for Reading and Writing
• Two modules for Math
• Detailed answer explanations
• A scoring sheet to calculate raw and scaled scores

Use these printed materials to track your progress, especially at the beginning of your study plan.

Step 3: Establish a 4-Day Baseline Score Plan

To find your baseline score without burning out, break up your first practice test into a four-day plan:

• Day 1: Take Module 1 of Reading and Writing
• Day 2: Take Module 2 of Reading and Writing
• Day 3: Take Module 1 of Math
• Day 4: Take Module 2 of Math

Record your raw scores each day using the provided scoring sheets. These raw scores will help you predict your current SAT score range. Aim for the lower end of the scale to stay realistic and motivated.

Example Baseline Score Calculation:

• Reading & Writing Module 1: 25/33
• Reading & Writing Module 2: 23/33
• Combined: 48 → ~600-660 range
• Math Module 1: 20/27
• Math Module 2: 22/27
• Combined: 42 → ~590-650 range

Total score range: 1190–1310

Step 4: Practice Daily, Even in Small Chunks

Once your baseline is set, consistent daily practice is key. Shorter, regular sessions are far more effective than cramming.

Here’s how to fit SAT prep into a busy schedule:

• Print practice tests and keep them in your backpack
• Do 3–4 questions during free time (lunch, waiting in line, before bed)
• Practice one module per day, or even just a few problems if time is tight

Just like training for a sport, small, consistent efforts lead to long-term results.

Step 5: Use Free Supplemental Resources

In addition to College Board materials, take advantage of:

• Free practice worksheets that go with live YouTube sessions
• Video tutorials on strategy, reading, writing, and math
• Desmos calculator tutorials to master the digital test format

These resources are designed to help you think like a test maker and understand the logic behind each question type.

Studying for the SAT isn’t about perfection—it’s about progress. Keep practicing every day, even if it's just for a few minutes. Track your score, aim for improvement, and use the best (and free!) resources available to you.

And remember, you don’t need to go it alone. There are tons of videos, worksheets, and a full online course to guide you every step of the way.

Let this be your first confident step on the journey to crushing the SAT.

🎥 Watch the full video now to kickstart your SAT prep with expert tips, free resources, and a step-by-step study plan. 🎥