1. The best thing to do is take a course and take it seriously. DO everything assigned and still practice on your own.
If you can't take a course you can study on your own but you have to be very disciplined to see significant increases in your score.
1. Take as many practice tests as you can. Go to a book store and pick up books and practice tests. Kaplan, prencton Review or Barrons are good. Also search the net for as many free tests and diagnostics you can find.
Heres one link:
http://www.internet4classrooms.com/act_sat.htm
2. Identify your problem areas specifically.
http://www.novapress.net/diagnostic/sat_test/math_test.html
If you get a book or check online you can get diagnostic exams which will help you identify your specific problem areas. These are areas where it will take more than practice to improve. You will have to study the specific area to learn the theory and learn shortcuts for specific types of problems.
You will see the most improvement in your problem areas. Remeber the test seems broad in scope. However in reality there are only a certain number of types of questions. If you can understand the "type" of question and identify the type of question when you read the question it will be easier to organize your mind to attack the question in the correct manner. This will cut down on your fear and anxiety as you take the test.
To understand the types of questions you must get some form of test prep material. These are things you cannot learn from your textbooks.
In a test where time and efficiency are key being comfortable is very important. Remeber that this is not only a test of your knowledge, the SAT is a test of your ability to take a test.
3. Practice and solidify your strengths. With both your strengths and weakness you can find in your study materials problems that just adress on specific type of problem. After you study a specific type do questions addressing those theories so you can practice what you learn.
If you:
1. Take Practice tests.
2. Identify your weaknesses and strengths.
3. Study and practice specific weakenesses.
Repeat.
Once you have materials and you have began your study make yourself a schedule. Plan out your study time and your practice test time and stick to it.
You have to approach this like an atheletic event. You must constantly hone your mind to the test taking conditions. Try to make your practice area as quiet as possible. Do not allow yourself to be disturbed during your practice tests. Try to take your practice tests during the time of day you will be taking your exam. You will understand your need for food your alertness depending on how much sleep you got the night before. Use all this knowledge to make your self as physically and mentally prepared for the exam you can possibly be.
Be focused, Be determined and practice practice practice.