6 Proven Strategies to Master SAT Vocabulary and Boost Your Test Scores

The SAT is one of the most important exams you’ll take in high school. Your score can significantly impact your college applications, and while there's a lot you can’t control, one thing you can control is your vocabulary. A strong vocabulary will not only help you ace the reading and writing sections of the SAT but will also support you in crafting well-rounded essays and performing better in interviews and college essays. Here are six proven ways to strengthen your SAT vocabulary and boost your scores.

1. Use the SAT Question of the Day

The College Board offers a convenient SAT study app, which includes an official daily practice question. While not all questions are vocabulary-related, it’s a perfect opportunity to build your vocabulary. When you come across an unfamiliar word, immediately look it up and add it to your list of words to review. Use it in conversations and writing to retain the word for longer.

2. Take SAT Practice Tests

Practice tests are one of the best ways to prepare for the SAT, especially when it comes to vocabulary. As you work through each practice section, make note of any unfamiliar words. Try to guess their meanings using context clues, then check your guess by looking up the word. Revisit these words over the next few days by incorporating them into your writing and speaking.

3. Dictionary.com Word of the Day

Another great daily tool is the “Word of the Day” from Dictionary.com. This site highlights a new word every day, often with useful definitions and examples. These words might be obscure, but they can be easily used in everyday conversation once you’ve learned them. Consistent exposure to these words can dramatically improve your vocabulary.

4. Explore the New York Times Learning Network

The New York Times Learning Network offers free educational materials and daily updates. It includes a Word of the Day feature, where a word is selected from the New York Times and used in context. The Learning Network also has quizzes, articles, and videos to further expand your vocabulary and knowledge.

5. Read High-Quality Materials

Reading is one of the most effective ways to build vocabulary. Choose challenging material like articles from the New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, or The Economist. These publications often contain academic or content-specific vocabulary that will help you not only for the SAT but also in your college career. Additionally, reading current events keeps you engaged with the world around you.

6. Create a Quizlet of SAT Vocabulary Words

If you want to drill SAT vocabulary, Quizlet is your best friend. Create your own flashcards from lists of common SAT words found on websites like Your Dictionary, and Vocabulary.com. Quizlet allows you to test yourself and track your progress over time, making learning these words both easy and effective.

Conclusion:

Building your SAT vocabulary doesn’t have to be boring or difficult. By integrating daily practices into your routine, you can improve your word knowledge and feel more confident when test day arrives. Whether through apps, flashcards, or reading, each step you take will bring you closer to acing the SAT. Happy studying!

References:

• College Board. (2024). Official SAT Practice. Retrieved from https://satsuite.collegeboard.org/sat/practice-preparation

• Dictionary.com. (2024). Word of the Day. Retrieved from https://www.dictionary.com/e/word-of-the-day/