The Path to a 1400 on the New SAT: Tutoring vs. Self-study

Achieving a high score on the New SAT can be a challenging endeavor, especially if your goal is to make the leap from a 1300 to a 1400. This article explores the effectiveness of tutoring versus self-study in reaching this ambitious target, providing insights based on real experiences and expert observations.

Personal Experience: From 1120 to 1300 to 1400

My personal journey took me from a 1120 to a 1300 on the New SAT, all without the help of a tutor. It was a process of independent learning that required reflective self-assessment and a determination to spot and address my weaknesses.

If I were to continue and aim for a 1400, the effectiveness of a tutor would largely depend on the quality and teaching method employed by the tutor. Tutoring could be beneficial, but it is not a necessity for reaching a 1400. A self-study approach that is flexible and adaptable can also achieve this goal, provided the student is sufficiently motivated.

Factors for Success in Reaching a 1400

Flexibility in Mental Processes

One of the key factors in reaching a 1400 is the flexibility in your mental processes. Extensive study often requires a different approach. If you stick to what worked before, you are likely to see similar results. You need to be willing to try a new learning method to radical change and improvement.

Willingness to Learn and Practice

Improvement in the verbal section of the SAT often demands a deep dive into new vocabulary, understanding grammar rules, and context in which words are used. If you believe that an Impressionist and Impersonator are the same, it is clear that you have a lot to learn. It is important to be prepared to learn and flexible enough to adjust your learning methods to achieve better results.

Anyone willing to put in the effort and mental flexibility to learn differently should have a chance to reach or surpass a 1400. However, it is crucial to find a tutor who knows how to teach this type of learning. Most instructors focus on a memory-based knowledge system rather than a test-taking system that requires learning how to take a test and assumes you have most of the necessary knowledge already.

Adapting to the SAT Testing Format

One simple example to illustrate the difference is a math problem: What is 3.579 x 7.42? A good tutor would not focus on multiplication but on estimating the correct answer among the provided options. The correct answer would likely be around 28 with five decimal places ending in eight, not necessarily the exact calculated result. The goal is to choose the best answer from the options provided, which might not require the exact correct answer for part of the question.

The understanding that the goal is to optimize your score on the test, not just to improve your ability to multiply or memorize, is crucial. This type of learning, often kinesthetic and test-taking oriented, can be acquired with the right guidance and flexibility.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the path to a 1400 on the New SAT is dependent on your willingness to adapt and learn, the quality of the tutor if you decide to get help, and the flexibility of your mental processes. Whether you choose to self-study or work with a tutor, the key is to be willing to learn and be adaptable. The right approach and mindset can make the difference between a 1300 and a 1400.

Those who are willing to put in the effort and adapt their learning methods to the SAT will have a better chance of reaching their goals. The journey to a 1400 may be long and challenging, but with the right approach, it is possible to achieve.