How to plan your study in the 3-month break between the December and March SATs

If you’ve just finished the December SAT and have your sights set on improving for the March test, the three months in between can be a golden opportunity to boost your score. However, without a clear plan, it’s easy to lose momentum or fall into unproductive habits. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you use this time effectively while avoiding burnout.

1. Study little and often

Consistency is key when it comes to preparing for the SAT. Rather than cramming long hours sporadically, aim to study in smaller, manageable chunks. For example:

• 1 to 2 hours every other day is more effective than a 6-hour session once a week.

• Break your study time into short blocks, such as 45-minute focused sessions with 15-minute breaks 

This method allows you to absorb information more effectively while keeping stress levels in check. Over three months, these small efforts will accumulate into substantial progress.

2. Read quality fiction and nonfiction daily

Reading regularly is a proven way to improve your verbal SAT scores, particularly in Reading and Writing & Language sections.

• Fiction helps develop comprehension skills and exposes you to more complex sentence structures and vocabulary.

• Nonfiction (articles, essays, and opinion pieces) prepares you for SAT-style texts and argumentative passages.

Reading recommendations

• Fiction: Classic novels like Labyrinth (Jorges Luis Borges), Open City (Teju Cole), Seize the Day (Saul Bellow), To Kill a Mockingbird (Harper Lee) or 1984 (George Orwell).

• Nonfiction: Articles and opinion pieces from quality sources such as The New York Times, Guardian, The Economist, or National Geographic provide strong basis for the Humanities and Social Science passages.

Set a goal to read for 20-30 minutes each day and actively engage with the text—summarise paragraphs, identify key arguments, and look up unfamiliar words.

3. Utilise the College Board question bank

The College Board provides an invaluable resource: a question bank with real SAT questions. Use this tool to:

• Focus on specific areas you struggled with in your December test.

• Track your performance and target weak points.

• Practice pacing to improve your time management.

Tip: Don’t just answer questions; spend time understanding the ones you got wrong. Reflect on why you made a mistake and how you can avoid it next time.

4. Space out practice tests and reflect on them

Full-length practice tests are essential for improving your SAT score, but taking too many without reflection can be counterproductive. Here’s how to use them effectively:

• Take one full-length practice test every 2-3 weeks under timed conditions to mimic the real exam.

• After each test, spend time reviewing it. Ask yourself:

  - Which questions did I struggle with, and why?

  - Are there patterns in my mistakes (e.g., algebra, vocabulary, time management)?

  - How can I adjust my strategy moving forward?

By spacing out tests, you’ll allow time to consolidate your learning and improve incrementally.

5. Get support from SAT experts

Navigating the SAT preparation process can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to improve specific areas. This is where expert guidance can make all the difference.

A-List can help create a personalised roadmap to help you focus your efforts efficiently following a specific timelime. Whether you’re struggling with math, critical reading, or test-taking strategies, our expert tutors with unmatched experience can help you identify and target weak areas, debunk difficult concepts and develop a consistent study routine that works for you.

Final thoughts

The three-month break between the December and March SATs is a perfect window to refine your skills and strengthen your weaknesses. By studying consistently, incorporating daily reading, using quality practice materials, and seeking targeted support, you can make significant improvements without feeling overwhelmed.

SAT preparation with A-List

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