The Shark Scholar answers burning questions from underclassmen

What is the SAT?

SAT is a standardized test used globally for college admissions. It was recently redesigned to be scored on a 1600 point scale. SAT has three required sections: Reading, Writing, and Math (with the essay as an optional section). In order to receive a high score on the SAT, you should read test-prep books and try to learn how to avoid making careless mistakes. “Careless mistakes always take away most of the points in SAT,” commented Kelly Woo (11B). Also, it is recommended to buy some work books to practice such as College Board New SAT workbooks. This would give you a detailed overview of how the SAT will be tested.

What is the ACT?

ACT is a standardized test also widely accepted for college admissions. It is recently getting more popular and its perfect score is a 36. ACT has a Reading, Writing, Math, and Science component. Like the SAT, the essay is an optional section. One concern was: “I’ve heard that in ACT, if you want to get a high score, you should solve questions quickly.” In response, Ginny Choi (11A) said, “You should never hesitate. The moment you do, you will not finish the test.” Like this, ACT is a test which you should be confident in your answers. If you think that you usually solve questions faster than others, you should consider taking the ACT.

How do you study for the PSAT?

Read more English books and to solve more English and Math problems before you take the test. You could also try getting some PSAT example questions online. However, you should know that PSAT scores, unlike SAT and ACT, does not qualify you for getting into prestigious universities. It is just a simple practice test that helps students to evaluate how they might do on actual SAT.

Will PE get harder?

As your get into higher grade levels, your coaches will have higher expectations for your performance in class. They make the activities harder in order to make your bodies more fit and healthy. But even if you are not good at working out, if you try your best, you will be fine in your P.E class. However, starting from you junior grade, P.E is not a required course. If it is really hard for you to you are the kind of person who really hates P.E, just think of it as weekly exercise that keeps you to maintain your health.