By Laura Whitmore
Preparing for the SAT can feel overwhelming, especially if the March test is right around the corner. With nearly two decades of experience as a test prep coach, I’ve helped hundreds of students reach—and often exceed—their SAT goals. In this guide, I’ll walk you through five things you should do to prepare for the March SAT, as well as five common mistakes to avoid. These strategies will help you stay focused, organized, and confident leading up to test day.
Not up for reading? Watch my YouTube video instead!
5 Things You Should DO:
1. Take a Diagnostic Test
The first step to creating an effective prep plan is knowing where you stand. A diagnostic test will give you a clear baseline so you can set realistic goals and measure your progress. I recommend using Test 6 on College Board’s Blue Book app. It’s an official test, meaning it closely mirrors what you’ll see on the actual SAT. Starting with an accurate baseline will help you focus your time on the areas that need the most attention.
2. Set a Realistic Goal
If you’re preparing with about eight weeks or less until the March SAT, aim to improve your baseline score by 100 to 150 points. This is a challenging yet achievable goal within that timeframe. If your target score requires more improvement, plan to take an additional SAT later in the year. Spreading out your preparation allows for steadier, more sustainable progress.
3. Create a Prep Plan—and Stick to It
Consistency is the key to success. Dedicate one day each week to math and one to English, and carve out two to three hours for focused study on each section. Block these times on your calendar as non-negotiable appointments. Setting reminders on your phone or finding an accountability partner can help you stay on track.
If you’re looking for structured support for the English section, my Self-Paced Digital SAT English Course offers in-depth strategies to help you navigate the toughest parts of the test.
4. Use the Best Test Prep Materials
Not all test prep materials are created equal. Start with official resources from College Board, as they provide the most accurate representation of the test. New tests (7–10) will be available in February, and I highly recommend completing these before March. They’ll reflect the latest trends and prepare you for what to expect.
5. Prioritize Self-Care
Test prep isn’t just about studying. Your performance on test day depends on how well you take care of yourself leading up to it. Make sure you’re getting enough sleep, eating nutritious meals, and staying active. A healthy mind and body work hand in hand, so don’t overlook this critical piece of preparation.
5 Mistakes You Should NOT DO:
1. Don’t Cram
While last-minute study sessions and crash courses might help a little, meaningful score improvements come from consistent effort over time. Students who commit to weekly practice sessions for several months see the biggest gains. If you’re reading this, chances are you’re more of a planner than a crammer—so stay the course, and your hard work will pay off.
2. Don’t Take Test After Test Without Reviewing Your Mistakes
Taking practice tests without reflecting on your errors is a missed opportunity. Go back to the questions you got wrong, try them again, and figure out why your original answer was incorrect. Understanding why the correct answer is right will help you avoid similar mistakes in the future.
3. Don’t Review Mistakes Just Once
Repetition is key to mastery. Keep a “mistakes diary” to track questions that challenge you. Revisit these problems regularly to reinforce your understanding. In my sessions, I often save missed questions and bring them back up weeks later to make sure my students truly grasp the concepts.
4. Don’t Assume Your Score After One Test Reflects Your Ability
A single high score on a practice test doesn’t guarantee you’ll achieve the same result on the real thing. To build confidence, aim to hit your target score consistently across multiple practice tests before test day. Consistency is a much better predictor of success than one great result.
5. Don’t Overlook the ACT
If you feel like your SAT prep isn’t moving the needle, consider trying a practice ACT. Many students naturally perform better on the ACT, scoring the equivalent of 50–100 points higher. If the ACT feels like a better fit, it might be worth shifting your focus.
Bottom Line
Preparing for the March SAT is about more than just learning the material—it’s about building confidence, staying consistent, and making steady progress. Whether you’re a student or supporting one, these tips will help you approach the test with a clear plan and the right mindset.
Happy prepping!
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