What if you’re in 11th grade and just starting to prepare for the SAT?

Today, I’m sharing a blog post about SAT study strategies specifically for 11th graders.

Feeling overwhelmed about starting SAT prep in 11th grade?If you’ve been putting off the SAT until now, it might feel daunting to start. But don’t worry—here’s my take on how to approach SAT preparation if you’re in 11th grade.

SAT Test Schedule

Let’s take a look at the SAT test schedule for students currently in 11th grade.When I recorded my video, it was December. The upcoming SAT test dates are in March, May, June, August, and October.

Can 11th graders achieve a 1500 score with just 2-3 months of preparation?If that were possible, the SAT score distribution would show a much higher percentage of top scores. Realistically, even for 11th graders, it’s very difficult to reach a high score with only 2-3 months of preparation.

Take my advice into consideration and build a strategy that works for you.Assuming it’s December and you’re aiming for the August SAT, there are about 260 days left. In a semester-based high school system, your schedule will include two midterms, two finals, and AP exams.

If you’re taking the August SAT, you’ll need to focus on GPA and AP studies during approximately 86 of those days. That leaves around 174 days—roughly 170 days—for SAT prep. Even with an August SAT target, the preparation period isn’t as long as it may seem.

First, analyze your current SAT level using detailed score breakdowns.The SAT has a maximum score of 1600: 800 for Reading & Writing (R&W) and 800 for Math.

Many students estimate their scores using practice tests from College Board or Khan Academy, but keep in mind that these tests are often easier than the actual SAT, leading to slightly inflated scores.

Our ETT platform features 12 practice sets. Sets 1-7 are locked due to discrepancies from the actual SAT, while sets 8-12—most similar to the real exam—are available. Practicing with these will provide the most accurate prediction of your real SAT score.

I can confidently say that our SAT platform, ETT-TEST.COM, yields results closest to actual SAT scores based on thorough analysis.

SAT Prep Strategies by Score Range for 11th Graders

Now, let’s dive into SAT study strategies based on score ranges. Keep in mind that today’s post is focused on students who are starting SAT prep in 11th grade.

If you fall into this range, your first step is deciding whether or not to take the SAT.

• If you decide NOT to take the SAT:

  
  

  You can focus on applying to UC schools or other test-optional institutions. Devote your efforts to strengthening other parts of your application to present yourself as a compelling candidate.

• If you decide to take the SAT:

  
  

  Be honest about your current skills and start from the basics.

  • Take courses, hire a tutor, or use self-study resources.

  • Use 2 study books: thoroughly review one book by sections, then revisit it after completing it once.

If your goal is the August SAT, aim to finish one round of study by June, leaving time for focused practice afterward.

For students in this range, jumping straight into practice questions will make achieving a high score difficult.

If you decide not to take the SAT, it’s a slightly unfortunate choice given your potential. However, it’s okay to focus on other priorities if that’s your decision.

For students in this range, you might consider revisiting foundational concepts. I’ll explain more detailed strategies for this range later.

If your baseline score (from ETT-TEST.COM) is 1450–1490, here’s what you should do:

If you’ve already studied for the SAT, you might aim for the March or June tests. However, if you’re starting fresh in December of your junior year, it’s better to focus on your GPA during the semester.

Strong performance in school will naturally improve your Reading & Writing scores. For Math, aim to master practice problems to score around 780. You can focus fully on SAT prep during the summer.

This score range includes the largest group of students. Students in this range often produce the most dynamic results. Some may reach the 1500+ range with just a few weeks of focused study, while others may see no improvement even after a year. It’s one of the most challenging ranges to navigate.

Let’s break it down into different scenarios:

Students Strong in English

Example: 740 in English (R&W) and 660 in Math = 1400 total

Students with this profile are already strong in English. Focus on your schoolwork until June, and then dedicate yourself to practice questions. Your score should improve with this approach.

You can leave English study aside until summer break.

For Math, if your score is 660, your GPA is likely solid, but you might find it difficult to accept this score. SAT Math mainly covers material up to Algebra 2, and if your foundation in Algebra 2 is solid, achieving a perfect score is very possible.

If you’re taking higher-level courses like Pre-Calculus or AP Calculus but your SAT Math score is low, it likely means there are significant gaps in your Algebra 2 knowledge. Focus on rebuilding your Algebra 2 foundation.

Seek help from a teacher, attend a tutoring center, or review two comprehensive study books. Whatever method you choose, stick to it and address your weaknesses systematically.

Students in this range typically find reviewing Algebra 2 twice manageable. By revisiting foundational concepts, you can fill in the gaps and improve your score.

Students Strong in Math

Example: 740 in Math and 660 in English (R&W) = 1400 total

For students strong in Math, focus on extensive practice during summer break. By practicing consistently and memorizing key problem-solving techniques, you’ll develop the ability to solve even slightly modified questions effectively.

It’s fine to delay Math preparation until the summer.

For English, while GPA-focused study may improve your skills indirectly, it’s still important to build a solid foundation.Avoid jumping straight into practice questions, as this approach won’t yield good results. Instead, seek structured lessons to help strengthen your basics.

Remember, studying the fundamentals of SAT English can also boost your GPA.

Students Balanced in Math and English

Example 1: 700 in Math + 700 in English (R&W) = 1400 totalIf your Math and English scores are similar, your goal should be to raise your overall score.

Since Math scores are generally easier to improve, focus more on Math for SAT preparation. You can rely on your GPA studies to maintain your English skills while prioritizing SAT Math to maximize your total score.

Example 2: 680 in Math + 680 in English (R&W) = 1360 totalThis is one of the most difficult situations for students. You’re not particularly weak in either subject, but you’re also not excelling in either.

Choose a strategy and focus on it:

• Dedicate yourself fully to Math from the basics.

• Focus entirely on improving your English skills.

• Alternatively, consider not taking the SAT at all.

No matter which path you choose, commit to your decision and put in consistent effort over the next few months. With dedication, you can achieve a score of 1550 or higher.

Today, I’ve shared strategies for SAT preparation tailored to 11th graders.

I hope this guide helps you create a clear plan for success. Use the ETT-TEST.COM platform for practice and aim for the best possible outcome.

For more information about the SAT, feel free to contact us at A-One Institute.

Thank you!