10 Last-Minute Tips for the March SAT

By Laura Whitmore

With the March SAT just around the corner, it’s completely normal to feel a mix of nerves and excitement. Whether you’ve been studying for months or just started thinking about the test, I’ve got you covered with my top 10 last-minute tips to help you feel more prepared and confident on test day. Remember, if things don’t go as planned, you can always take the test again—so take a deep breath and let’s dive in!

Want a break from reading? Check out my YouTube video!

1️⃣ Start at Question 27 on the English Modules and Work Backwards

This strategy might seem a bit unconventional, but hear me out. The questions near the end of the English modules tend to be quicker and easier, making them a great warm-up for your brain.

By starting at question 27 and working backward, you can build confidence and earn points more efficiently. I also recommend skipping questions 15 to 11 at first, as these are typically the toughest reading questions. You can always circle back to them once you've tackled the rest. This approach helped me score a 1590 on the November SAT, so it’s definitely worth a try!

2️⃣ Look for Three Wrong Answers Instead of One Right Answer

SAT reading questions are full of trap answers that sound convincing. Instead of searching for the one right answer, try to eliminate three wrong ones. This method helps you focus on why each option might be incorrect, making it easier to zero in on the right choice. Think of it as detective work—being cautious and critical about every answer.

3️⃣ When Running Out of Time, “Christmas Tree” Your Answers

If you find yourself running out of time, especially on the harder second module, consider using the “Christmas tree” strategy. This means picking the same letter for several questions in a row, and my personal favorite is “D.”

However, there’s a catch: if you fill in your answers too quickly, the SAT’s adaptive algorithm might catch on. I recommend taking a few seconds between each selection to avoid being flagged for random guessing.

4️⃣ Warm Up Your Brain on Test Day

Just like athletes warm up before a game, your brain needs a warm-up before the SAT. In the parking lot before the test, try a short set of easy practice problems. These should be straightforward enough to build confidence but challenging enough to get your mind in test mode.

Here is a quick warm-up set with no answer key—because on test day, you won’t get to check your answers either!

5️⃣ Stuck on a Vocab Question? Play Positive/Negative

If you come across a vocabulary question with words you don’t know, don’t panic!

A helpful strategy is to play “positive/negative.” First, try to determine if the blank requires a positive or negative word based on the context. Then, go through the options and eliminate those that don’t match the tone. This method can help you make an educated guess even if you’re not familiar with every word.

6️⃣ Write All Your Work Out for Math Questions

Trying to do math in your head might save time in theory, but it often leads to careless mistakes. Write all your steps out on scrap paper, even if they seem basic. This habit helps you stay organized and reduces the risk of errors—especially on algebra questions where it’s easy to miss a sign or forget a step.

7️⃣ Always Read the Question First on English Sections

Before diving into reading passages, read the questions first. This simple step can help you focus on the information you actually need, saving time and improving accuracy. Knowing what you’re looking for allows you to skim more effectively and avoid getting bogged down in unnecessary details.

8️⃣ Annotate Tough English Questions

On difficult reading passages, especially scientific or comparison ones, try annotating. A simple T-chart can help you keep track of contrasting points in passages that compare two things. Quick shorthand notes can also help organize your thoughts, making it easier to answer questions accurately. While it might feel like annotation takes extra time, it actually prevents you from re-reading and second-guessing, which saves time in the long run.

9️⃣ Use Metacognition to Stay on Track

Metacognition—thinking about your thinking—can be a powerful tool on the SAT. Be aware of where you are in the test and adjust your approach accordingly. For instance, if you’re on a hard question near the end of a module and the answer seems too easy, pause and rethink it. On the flip side, if an early question is taking too long, you might be overcomplicating it. This self-awareness helps you use your time more effectively and prevents common mistakes.

🔟 Don’t Forget About Desmos

The Desmos calculator is a valuable tool, but only if you use it wisely. On certain math questions, graphing or checking solutions on Desmos can save significant time and reduce careless mistakes. Just make sure you’re familiar with its features before test day.

For a deeper dive into how to leverage Desmos effectively, access our 2-Hour Desmos Crash Course now. You can register here to purchase the materials and the video. Knowing when and how to use Desmos can make a big difference in your math score!

💡 Bottom Line

I hope these tips help you feel a little more prepared and a lot less stressed for the March SAT. And if you’re looking to get some extra last-minute practice in, try out our Preptly app for even more SAT questions and drills to help you feel confident on test day! Remember, a little bit of strategy can go a long way.

Wishing you the best of luck and happy prepping!