1. Review the Digital Format

Familiarize yourself with the digital format of the SAT – understand how the test is structured, including the number of sections, types of questions, and overall layout, as outlined in our blog post.

2. Practice with Official Tools

Use the College Board’s official SAT practice platform – the Bluebook app – which provides digital practice tests and sample questions. So far, four official digital SAT practice tests are available. These allow you to become comfortable with the digital interface and tools, such as highlighting, flagging questions, and using the on-screen calculator.

3. Simulate Test Conditions

Practice taking digital SAT practice tests under timed conditions to simulate the experience of the actual test. Use a quiet, distraction-free environment and follow the timing guidelines for each section.

4. Use Classic Techniques

Although the format is different, the classic techniques for answering the SAT’s multiple-choice questions still work. For example, using the process of elimination to eliminate obviously incorrect answer choices will narrow down your options and increase your chances of selecting the correct answer. Or for math questions, consider plugging in answer choices to see which one fits the given conditions or equations. This can help you quickly identify the correct solution.

5. Practice Time Management

Time management is crucial on the digital SAT, so practice pacing yourself to ensure you can complete each section within the allotted time. Use strategies such as skipping difficult questions and coming back to them later if necessary.

6. Utilize Tools Effectively

Familiarize yourself with the digital tools provided, such as the highlighting features and the Desmos calculator that is available for use on the entire math section. This is the version for the digital SAT, PSAT, and NMSQT. Practice using these tools efficiently to solve problems and annotate passages effectively.

7. Review Technical Requirements

Make sure your device meets the technical requirements for taking the digital SAT. Check compatibility with the official testing platform, ensure a stable internet connection, and familiarize yourself with any additional requirements or guidelines.

8. Stay Updated

Keep abreast of any updates or changes to the digital SAT format or testing procedures. Visit the College Board website regularly for the latest information and announcements.

9. Stay Calm and Confident

On test day, stay calm and confident in your abilities. Trust in your preparation and strategies, and approach each question methodically and thoughtfully.

How to Study for the Digital SAT

Need more targeted practice problems to prepare for the test effectively? Our digital SAT tutors can work with you to pinpoint which areas to work on and offer plenty of practice problems for specific topics!

Precalculus typically includes a comprehensive review and extension of the topics that students have already learned in Algebra 2, such as polynomial and rational functions, exponential and logarithmic functions, and systems of equations. There are a few topics of trigonometry it goes deeper into, such as trigonometric functions, identities, and equations. It also introduces other topics such as conic sections, polar coordinates, and parametric equations, which is typically covered in AP Calculus as more advanced material. Assessing your understanding of these foundational concepts is key – if you thrived in Algebra 2, you may have no issue skipping precalculus. Ask yourself:

• Can you confidently solve algebraic equations, manipulate functions, and work with trigonometric identities and inverse trigonometric functions?
• Do you understand the properties of logarithms and exponential functions?
• Are you comfortable graphing various functions and interpreting their behavior?

What Does Precalculus Cover?

Many schools have not yet implemented the new AP Precalculus course from College Board and regular precalculus is not a standardized course, so topics that your school’s class covers may vary slightly. Some precalculus classes may choose to omit certain ones. However, if you crack open a precalculus textbook and take a look at the table of contents, here are some common topics typically included in the curriculum:

1. Functions and Graphs

• Understanding various types of functions (linear, quadratic, polynomial, rational, radical, and inverses) and their graphical representations.

2. Exponential and Logarithmic Functions

• Understanding the properties of exponential and logarithmic functions, solving exponential and logarithmic equations, and applications such as exponential growth and decay.

3. Complex Numbers

• Exploring the properties and operations involving complex numbers, including complex roots of polynomials and applications in engineering and physics.

4. Sequences and Series

• Investigating arithmetic and geometric sequences, series, and sums, including convergence and divergence.

5. Trigonometry

• Exploring trigonometric functions (sine, cosine, tangent), trigonometric identities, equations, and their applications in solving triangles and analyzing periodic phenomena.

6. Trigonometric Identities and Equations

• Deriving and manipulating trigonometric identities, solving trigonometric equations, and applying trigonometric techniques to solve real-world problems.

7. Analytical Geometry

• Studying the properties and characteristics of conic sections – circles, ellipses, hyperbolas, and parabolas.

8. Polar Coordinates and Parametric Equations

• Understanding the representation of points using polar coordinates and parametric equations, as well as converting between different coordinate systems.

9. Matrices and Vectors

• Introducing matrix operations, determinants, inverses, and applications of matrices, as well as vectors and their properties in two and three dimensions.

10. Limits and Continuity

• Introducing the concept of limits and their properties, evaluating limits algebraically and graphically, and understanding continuity of functions. This one in particular will be taught in more depth at the beginning of AP Calculus.

These topics provide students with the necessary skills to tackle calculus and other advanced mathematical subjects. Mastering these concepts is essential for success in higher-level mathematics and various STEM fields.

Can You Skip Precalculus?

If you’re uncertain about the material you’ll need to know before taking AP Calculus after Algebra 2 and/or Trigonometry, consider working with a tutor to bring you up to speed with the topics necessary to skip Precalculus. Our Precalculus, Integrated Math, and Algebra 2 tutors provide tailored support to match and expand on your current level of understanding. Schedule a free consultation with us today!

Integrated Math III, or IM3 for short, is the last course in the integrated pathway organized by the Common Core State Standards as an alternative to the traditional math pathway. Integrated Math is a comprehensive series of courses aimed at blending key concepts from algebra, geometry, statistics, and other mathematical fields into a unified curriculum. Rather than treating these subjects as separate fields as the traditional math curriculum does, the IM pathway “integrates” these classes by highlighting their connections to each other and real-world applications.

What Does IM3 Teach?

The mathematics framework for California public schools contains an overview of what students are expected to be able to do in the class. There are five main topics that students will learn about.

1. Number and Quantity

• Learn about complex numbers vs. real and irrational numbers, and continue to use basic operations such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.

2. Algebra

• Manipulate algebraic and rational expressions
• Create and solve equations and inequalities by apply algebraic techniques
• Use polynomial identities and the Binomial Theorem to solve problems
• Understand factors and zeros of polynomials

3. Functions

• Understand the behavior and characteristics of various types of functions and their graphical representations.
• Emphasis is placed on analyzing functions, identifying key features such as domain, range, intercepts, and transformations, and solving problems involving function notation.

4. Geometry

• Topics may include properties of geometric shapes and figures, congruence and similarity, trigonometry, geometric transformations, and coordinate geometry.
• Students also explore applications of geometry in real-world contexts, such as area and volume calculations and geometric proofs.

5. Statistics and Probability

• This topic introduces students to basic principles of statistics and probability and their applications in data analysis and decision-making.
• Students learn to collect, organize, and interpret data using statistical measures such as mean, median, mode, and standard deviation.
• Probability concepts cover topics such as theoretical and experimental probability, probability distributions, and basic statistical inference techniques.

What is Integrated Math 3 Equivalent To?

Generally, the topics found in IM3 are what a regular Precalculus course would cover.

Can I still Take AP calculus After Finishing Integrated Math?

Absolutely, many students typically take AP Calculus during their senior year of high school after completing Integrated Math 3 in their junior year. Integrated Math 3 provides a solid foundation in algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and other essential mathematical concepts that are prerequisites for success in calculus.

Students who are interested in pursuing more advanced mathematics and potentially earning college credit while still in high school naturally progress from IM3 to AP Calculus. AP Calculus covers topics such as limits, derivatives, integrals, and differential equations, building upon the knowledge and problem-solving skills developed in Integrated Math 3.

Can I skip IM2 or 3?

Skipping earlier Integrated Math courses in the pathway is possible in some cases, but it largely depends on several factors, including your individual academic readiness, school policies, and curriculum structure.

For example, if you’d like to skip Integrated Math 2 in order to take AP Calculus earlier, keep some considerations in mind:

1. Prerequisite Knowledge:

Integrated Math 2 typically covers essential concepts that are foundational knowledge for Integrated Math 3 and AP Calculus. Skipping IM2 means potentially missing out on crucial topics such as linear equations, quadratics, geometric proofs, and basic trigonometry. Make sure you have a strong understanding of these concepts before considering skipping the course.

2. Academic Readiness:

AP Calculus is a rigorous course that requires a solid understanding of algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and precalculus. Skipping IM2 or 3 and jumping to AP Calculus might be feasible if you have demonstrated exceptional proficiency in mathematics and are confident in your ability to handle advanced coursework. However, it’s essential to assess your readiness and ensure that you won’t be overwhelmed by the jump in difficulty.

3. School Policies:

Some schools may have specific prerequisites or policies regarding course sequencing and eligibility for AP courses. Check with your school’s guidance counselor or mathematics department to see if skipping IM2 is allowed and advisable based on your profile.

4. Alternative Pathways:

If skipping IM2 isn’t feasible, consider alternative pathways to accelerate your math education. For example, you could take IM2 concurrently with IM3 to catch up on missed content. Additionally, you may explore summer enrichment programs, online courses, or dual enrollment options as supplements to advance more quickly, if your school allows for it.

Are you considering skipping any of the Integrated Math 1, 2, or 3 classes to fast-track your math education? At MathTowne, we offer personalized guidance and support to help you navigate this decision with confidence. Our experienced tutors for the Integrated Math courses provide tailored instruction, filling any knowledge gaps and preparing you for the challenges ahead, including AP Calculus and beyond. For Schedule a free consultation to explore this with us today!

1. Factoring

If the coefficient a in front of x is 1, usually factoring is the most efficient method to go with. The purpose is to turn the quadratic in standard form into x-intercept form so that the roots can be easily identified. For example, take the problem

$$x^2-6x+8=0$$

What we are looking for is two factors that multiply to 8 and add to -6. These will be -2 and -4. So the quadratic in factored form is

$$(x-2)(x-4)=0$$

$$x=2, 4$$

If the coefficient a is not 1, you can use the Diamond Method to factor it. For example, take $2x^2+7x-15=0$. In this problem, $a=2$, $b= 7$, and $c = -15$. Take a and c and multiply them together to get -30. The coefficient b is 7. Now we’re looking for two numbers that multiply to ac (-30) and add or subtract to b (7).

The simplest way to search for those two numbers is to write out the factors of -30 in pairs, starting with 1, as follows:

$$\pm 1, \pm 30$$

$$\pm 2, \pm 15$$

$$\pm 3, \pm 10$$

Here we can see that 10 and -3 will add up to 7, so these are the factors.

Next, split up the x term in $2x^2+7x-15=0$ into those factors:

$$2x^2+10x-3x-15=0$$

Then factor by grouping.

$$2x(x+5) – 3(x+5)=0$$

$$(2x-3)(x+5)=0$$

$x=3/2$ and $-5$.

However, sometimes you may not be able to find integer factors for ac that add up to b, in which case use the quadratic formula or complete the square.

2. Square Roots Method

Whenever a quadratic equation has only $x^2$ terms (and no $x$ terms), the square roots method is most efficient. For example, to solve

$$2x^2 + 4 = x^2 + 20$$

Start by combining the like terms of $x^2$ together on one side, and the constants on the other (by subtracting $x^2$ and then 4 from both sides).

$$2x^2-x^2 + 4 = 20$$

$$x^2 + 4 = 20$$

$$x^2 = 16$$

$$x = \pm4$$

Don’t forget the $\pm$ since both are solutions that will give the positive square number!

Caution – if the last step with $x^2$ equals a negative number (for example $x^2 = -16$, then the equation has no real solutions, although your math class may ask you to include imaginary solutions (which will be $\pm4i$).

3. Completing the Square

Generally, the purpose of completing the square is to turn a quadratic in standard form into vertex form $y=a(x-h)^2+k$, where $(h,k)$ is the vertex of the parabola, since it is the least efficient way of solving an equation. But it can still be used for when the solutions may not be rational numbers. Let’s say we want to solve, by completing the square,

$$3x^2-12x+7=0$$

First, factor out the coefficient in front of $x^2$ and include the $x$ term in parentheses as well:

$$3(x^2-4x) + 7 = 0$$

Next, we want to find a number to add to $(x^2-4x)$ so that it will turn into the binomial squared form $(x-h)^2$. To find it, take the b coefficient in front of the $x$ term, divide by 2, and square it – in this case, the coefficient is -4.

$$(\frac{-4}{2})^2 = 4$$.

Add the 4 inside the parentheses

$$3(x^2-4x+4) + 7 = 0$$

Because we’ve effectively added 3$\times$4 = 12 to the left side of the equation, we have to subtract 12 in order to keep the original equation!

$$3(x^2-4x+4)+7-12 = 0$$

$$3(x^2-4x+4)-5 = 0$$

Now the $(x^2-4x+4)$ can be factored into $(x-2)^2$.

$$3(x-2)^2-5 = 0$$

From here, use the square roots method to solve.

$$3(x-2)^2=5$$

$$(x-2)^2=\frac{5}{3}$$

$$x-2=\pm\sqrt{\frac{5}{3}}$$

$$x=2\pm\sqrt{\frac{5}{3}}$$

The two solutions are irrational, but roughly 3.29 and 0.71.

If you find yourself struggling with quadratic equations or any other aspect of algebra, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Our Algebra 1 and Algebra 2 tutors are here to guide you through your math class, providing personalized support tailored to your learning style and pace. Ready to take your algebra skills to the next level? Schedule a free consultation with us today!

Traditional math typically involves separate courses – generally, students progress through Algebra 1, Geometry, Algebra 2 and/or trigonometry, Precalculus, and then Calculus, with each course focusing on specific topics related to that area of math. This approach has been the standard in many educational systems for decades.

On the other hand, integrated math combines topics from algebra, geometry, and other areas of math into a single course. For example, students in Integrated Math I learn foundational algebra topics such as linear equations, inequalities, and how to graph these functions, but topics from geometry such as quadrilaterals and congruent triangles are also included, or “integrated.” The goal of integrated math is to show the connections between different math concepts and to present math as a coherent, unified subject rather than a series of isolated topics.

Students may be presented with more real-life application problems to develop their overall understanding of the purpose of math. Sometimes, these problems are more challenging as they require more critical thinking about the concepts that the students have learned. By tackling problems that require the integration of multiple concepts, students can develop a deeper understanding of how mathematics is used in practical situations.

However, whether one approach is more advanced than the other depends on the curriculum, how in-depth a teacher might go into each topic, and the goals of the course. Some integrated math courses may cover advanced topics earlier than traditional courses, while others may cover the same material but in a different order or with different emphases.

Integrated math is not necessarily more advanced than traditional math; it’s just a different approach to teaching mathematics that emphasizes the connections between different topics.

Looking to excel in an Integrated Math 1, 2, or 3 class? Our Integrated Math tutors provide personalized support and guidance tailored to the curriculum – schedule a free consultation today!

The quadratic formula is a powerful tool used to solve quadratic equations – these are equations involving a variable squared, such as x² (“quad” meaning square), and no higher power. Generally, the problems you encounter will be in standard form $ax^2 + bx + c = 0.$

The solution(s) you get will be the roots, or x-intercepts of the graphed function which will be a parabola. The quadratic formula is as follows:

$$x=\frac{-b \pm \sqrt{b^2-4ac}}{2a}$$

When To Use the Quadratic Formula?

Whenever you see the words “solve for x” in a problem or “find the roots,” the quadratic formula is an option that you can use. For example, take the function $$y=2x^2-5x-3$$ with the problem asking you to find the roots. From the equation, $a=2, b=-5,$ and $c=-3.$

Plugging these into the quadratic formula,

$$x=\frac{-(-5)\pm\sqrt{(-5)^2-4(2)(-3)}}{2(2)}$$

$$x=\frac{5\pm\sqrt{25+24}}{4}$$

$$x=\frac{5\pm\sqrt{49}}{4}$$

$$x=\frac{5\pm 7}{4}$$

$$x=3,-\frac{1}{2}$$

These are the two solutions. As an aside, these roots will the cross the x-axis at the points $(3,0)$ and $(-\frac{1}{2},0).$

And there you have it! The quadratic formula is not the only way to solve a quadratic equation – the other methods are factoring and completing the square leading into the square roots method, alternative ways to be discussed in a later blog post.

Extra Practice

For extra practice on using the quadratic formula, try out these worksheets with the answer key included.

Worksheet 1

Worksheet 2

Worksheet 3

Maximizing your tutoring experience requires more than just showing up – active participation, effective communication, and a proactive approach to learning will optimize the tutoring session and help you achieve the best possible results.

1. Come Prepared

First things first: ensure you’re armed with essentials. Bring your pencil, notebook, and any relevant materials to each tutoring session. You can even bring a dedicated notebook for tutoring to keep your notes and insights organized in one place. This can be especially helpful when reviewing material or preparing for exams, as you won’t have to sift through various papers or notebooks to find specific information.

Before the session, take the time to review your class notes, textbooks, or past tests to identify specific topics or questions that you want to discuss. While your tutor can pinpoint the topics and parts of the material you might be struggling with as you work through practice problems together, coming prepared allows for a more productive session. This way, your tutor can not only cover the basics, but quickly hone in on the areas where you need the most support.

2. Be Engaged

Actively participate in the session by engaging in discussions, providing feedback, and sharing your thoughts. The more engaged you are, the more personalized and effective your tutoring experience becomes. Your involvement helps your tutor grasp your thought processes and tailor their explanations to your learning style. Remember, your tutor is rooting for your success!

3. No Question Too Simple

Don’t be shy about asking questions. There’s no such thing as a “too basic” question. If something’s puzzling you, chances are your classmates are wondering the same thing. So, ask away – your tutor is there to share the knowledge and help things click for you.

4. Take Purposeful Notes

Take notes on key points, explanations, and examples, but don’t stress about turning into a note-taking ninja. Jot down the “aha” moments and the nifty tricks your tutor throws your way. It’s easy to forget what you’ve heard, so make sure you write them down! These notes are your secret weapons for later study sessions.

5. Embrace Different Approaches

Your tutor might introduce various strategies – think of it as having a toolkit of study methods. Some techniques may align better with your learning style and make the material more digestible. Maybe visual aids like diagrams or charts work best for you, or perhaps you find mnemonic devices helpful in remembering complex information. Experiment with different approaches to find what is easiest to use for you.

6. Reflect for Reinforcement

After your tutoring session, take a moment to reflect. What’s clear, and what needs a bit more focus? Reflecting on your session helps solidify your understanding and prepares you for future learning.

SEE ALSO: For Students: How to Find the Best Study Habits for You

Perfectionism Procrastination

Procrastination is sometimes misunderstood and unfairly labeled as mere laziness, when avoidance signals a bigger issue. While certain factors can fuel procrastination, like the allure of instant gratification from more enjoyable yet unrelated activities, the act of avoiding tasks is frequently rooted in the fear of failure.

Perfectionism is a trait often described as a double-edged sword, with both positive and negative attributes. On the one hand, it manifests as a dedication to precision and detail. On the other hand, perfectionists can grapple with an intense dread of making mistakes. When students perceive a task as too difficult or intimidating, they may delay working on it, hoping for more clarity or confidence. The fear of failure can lead to avoidance of tasks, as procrastinating provides temporary relief from confronting the fear. A common example for many students is the process of writing essays – some may find themselves unable to start writing at all because they expect that even the initial rough draft they pour out should sound perfect.

How to Stop Procrastinating Right Now

1. Set Clear Intentions and Create a Task List

Begin by defining your intentions to give a sense of purpose and direction:

• What do you want to accomplish?
• Why is it important?

Once you’ve clarified your intentions, it’s time to break down your larger goals into smaller, manageable tasks. This process involves creating a task list or to-do list. Consider the main task you want to complete and identify all the subtasks or steps required to accomplish it. For instance, if your intention is to write a research paper, subtasks might include researching, outlining, writing the introduction, and so on.

2. Practice the 2-minute Rule

If you find a subtask that can take less than 2 minutes to complete, do it immediately. This quick win can provide a sense of accomplishment and progress. These might be short tasks such as:

• Creating a basic outline for your essay
• Reading a short passage in the textbook for your class
• Organizing your study area and notes (but make sure not to get carried away with cleaning in order to further procrastinate, as students sometimes end up doing)

When you finish a task, you can cross it out, place a checkmark next to it, or highlight it in green to mark as “done” to reinforce the idea that progress is attainable.

3. Reward Yourself: Combine Enjoyable Activities with Unpleasant Tasks

When you reward yourself with an enjoyable activity after completing a task, you can train your brain to create a positive association between productivity and pleasure, which can motivate you to engage with the less enjoyable task to reach the rewarding experience.

To start, clearly specify the reward for achieving each milestone set, whether it’s a larger task or smaller subtask. It could be as simple as watching a short episode of your favorite TV series or spending 15 minutes on a hobby you love. As you work on the task you don’t enjoy, keep the reward in mind. It serves as an incentive to stay focused and motivated to complete the task efficiently.

Set a timer for a specific amount of time to work on the task before you can enjoy the reward. A practical approach is to adopt the Pomodoro Technique, a time management strategy that involves concentrating on work for 25 minutes and then taking a 5-minute break, with extended breaks of 15-30 minutes following four work intervals.

Adjusting Rewards

Be mindful of the rewards you choose. If you find that a particular reward is too enticing and leads to procrastination, consider selecting a less distracting reward that still brings you joy.

To take the strategy a step further, consider limiting your engagement in the enjoyable activity to the time when you’re actively working on the task, such as listening to your favorite music only while you’re working. This establishes a clear rule: you may enjoy the rewarding activity as long as you are actively engaged in the task you might otherwise avoid.

4. Avoid Multitasking

Multitasking, or the attempt to tackle multiple tasks simultaneously, may seem like an efficient way to get more done. However, when you switch between tasks, you need time to readjust and refocus on each one, and it can be more time-consuming to switch tasks frequently. Additionally, the difficulty in focusing on multiple tasks can also hinder your ability to complete tasks accurately, leading to demotivation. Increased feelings of overwhelm from having to concentrate on multiple tasks at once can even make procrastination seem like a more appealing option, especially if you feel like you’re not making much headway on any task.

To avoid multitasking and boost your productivity:

• Prioritize tasks and focus on one at a time.
• Allocate dedicated time blocks for each task.
• Minimize distractions by silencing notifications and creating a distraction-free environment.
• Practice mindfulness to enhance concentration.

5. Find an Accountability Partner

An accountability partner is someone who holds you responsible for achieving your goals and completing tasks. The external source of motivation can be highly effective against procrastination. Here’s how having an accountability partner works:

• Motivation and Commitment: Knowing that someone else is aware of your goals and progress can motivate you to stay committed. You’re less likely to procrastinate when you have to report your progress to someone.
• Shared Goals: Your accountability partner may have similar goals or tasks. Sharing your goals and progress can create a sense of mutual support. The social aspect of working toward goals together can be particularly motivating.
• Feedback and Encouragement: Regular check-ins with your partner provide opportunities for feedback and encouragement, and their input can help you overcome obstacles and stay on track.

To make the most of an accountability partnership:

• Choose someone you trust and feel comfortable with.
• Set clear goals and expectations for the partnership.
• Schedule regular check-ins or updates.
• Be honest and transparent about your progress and challenges.

6. Have Immediate Consequences for Procrastination

Those who procrastinate frequently postpone the burden of consequences to their future selves, leaving themselves to deal with the fallout later. To address, bring the consequences closer to the present and make the negative impact immediate as the fear of an even worse outcome can motivate you to confront procrastination directly. Here are a few approaches:

1. Financial Consequences: Create a financial penalty for yourself if you fail to meet a deadline. For instance, you could set up a contract that involves donating a sum of money to a cause you dislike if you don’t finish a task on time.
2. Loss of Convenience: Implement a rule where you lose the opportunity to engage in an enjoyable activity or indulge in a treat if you procrastinate on a task. For example, you can’t watch your favorite TV show until the task is completed.
3. Sprint Challenges: Create short, focused work sprints with friends or colleagues. Challenge each other to complete specific tasks within a short period. The fear of not meeting the challenge can add an immediate consequence to procrastination.

7. Practice Self-Compassion

Procrastination is a shared experience. Everyone, at some point, struggles with putting off tasks they find difficult or unappealing. Recognize that you’re not alone in your procrastination and try to avoid criticizing yourself when you feel like you aren’t meeting your standards. Treat yourself with the same understanding and empathy as you would toward a friend who might face the same challenge.

Ironically, self-compassion can be a powerful motivator. When you’re kinder to yourself, you’re more likely to take action because you’re not weighed down by paralyzing negative emotions like guilt or shame. Instead, you’re motivated by a desire to make things easier for yourself and achieve your goals.

When you’re compassionate toward yourself, you’re better equipped to bounce back from setbacks and failures. This resilience can help you confront procrastination without it feeling like an impossible obstacle.

See Also: Time Management Tips for Students

Honestly, these are the wrong questions. To know how to end a Common App essay, you have to know how to begin it. To begin it, you also must know how to carry it through the middle. In short, there’s no part that’s more important than any other. They’re all linked together.  

A person who leaves a lasting impression with an admissions official will understand all of this.

The Structure

Let’s talk about essay structure, but not academic essay structure. Let’s talk about college application essay structure.  

You probably already feel comfortable with writing an academic essay. Our schools do a good job of burning that structure into the minds of middle- and high school students all over the nation. You know the drill, but let’s review it: Start with introduction (always end with the thesis!), go to body paragraph 1, then body paragraph 2, then body paragraph 3, and finally the conclusion (always provide a restated thesis). You might even have been taught to preview your points in the introduction, and then review your points in the conclusion as well. That’s a mistake, but let’s skip over that for now. 

Well, the college application essay isn’t an academic essay, not like that. It isn’t even referred to as an essay. The Common Application calls it “the personal statement”. The University of California calls theirs “personal insight questions”. 

What does that mean for you? Don’t fall into mental routines that your teachers have built inside your head. Academic essay structure has almost no relationship to college application writing. This is hard for some of us to accept. 

Yes, there is some overlap between academic writing and college application writing. One, you should use claim and evidence in both. This means that if you make a general statement, you should follow it up with concrete evidence. Two, you should strive for as much specificity as possible. Writing the villain kicked the dog is general; writing the villainous stepfather stupidly kicked the angry pit bull is specific. And three, the so-called “cycle of evidence” remains the same for both types of writing: 1) set up the evidence, 2) provide the evidence, then 3) analyze the evidence. That’s so important that it bears repeating: you should always provide original, incisive analysis following your evidence.

But in most other ways, the personal statement (or personal insight questions) are exactly that: personal. You have to provide some stories about your life, and stories aren’t academic. If it feels like a journal, well, that’s because it is—a very insightful, smart, well-written journal. 

The structure of the personal statement is flexible. Below you will find one structure that you can rely upon, no matter what topic you select. It’s not mandatory, but many high school students have relied upon it. 

• Paragraph 1: Begin with an anecdote from your life, a moment of conflict. Write it using sensory description. 
• Paragraph 2: Go backwards in time, into the background. Describe your experience in this topic, maybe including your childhood. Talk about how you ultimately arrived at that moment of conflict.
• Paragraph 3: Explain how you resolved the moment of conflict, and what sort of tools (emotional, intellectual, physical) you developed to do that. 
• Paragraph 4: Story time is over. This is the place to show off your intelligence. Analyze your experience, relate it to other experiences via analogies, ask rhetorical questions. Be sure to give them the best of your brain. 
• Paragraph 5: The future. Discuss what you’ve learned from your experience in this topic, and how it’s going to influence you at university, in your career, and beyond. 

Remember that admissions officials read these personal statements by the truckload every night. Yours is, for better or worse, being compared with every other personal statement in the stack. If you follow this structure, you will leave a lasting impression with your statement.

What you can do to get better at writing college admissions personal statements

The best thing you can do is to read other people’s personal statements. There are many books and websites full of sample essays. Read the good, read the bad, read the in-between. Read them with friends. Read at least twenty. Ask yourself where they succeeded and where they failed. Ask yourself why. 

Another thing you can do is to write multiple versions of the same personal statement. Approach it from different perspectives, using different tones and different outlines. If you’re a perfectionist, this exercise will be especially helpful. It’ll teach you that perfection is impossible in the world of writing. It’ll also teach you the importance of the idea that the perfect is the enemy of the good. (Better to be on the side of the good.)

To improve the versatility of your writing skills, try doing a few exercises looking at the same topic from different modes, or points of view. 

Let’s pick a silly topic. Say you want to persuade the reader not to buy a hippopotamus. (It’s not that silly: they’re angry, aggressive creatures.) You could challenge yourself to write about the topic in several ways: 

• Compare and Contrast. Pit a hippopotamus against a parrakeet. 
• Process Analysis. Lead us through the laborious process of taking care of a hippopotamus.
• Poetic. Wax lyrical about the semiaquatic mammal’s horrid nature. 
• Argumentative. Write a classic persuasive essay, with claim and evidence, why we should steer clear of them.
• Informative. Select facts that illustrate their nasty nature, but don’t comment or analyze. 

You get the picture. A mature writer should be able to mine his or her own experience, then shape it to whatever is needed. 

One thing you shouldn’t do is rely upon artificial intelligence. AI tools are good at producing slick sentences, but they’re bad at presenting details, transmitting emotion, or analyzing experience. Its output text lacks personality, which makes sense, since AI doesn’t have a personality (for now). Besides, why would you want to hand over control of the most important essay you’ll probably ever write to somebody or something else? Keep that power for yourself.

Editing

First drafts should be expansive and fun. They should also contain more words than needed.

Let that sink in. Always write more than you need; this allows you the wiggle room to edit unneeded words out of the essay. Sometimes applicants know the Common Application word count limit is 650 words, and then panic when their first draft goes to 700 words. In reality, that’s not enough: write 800 words, at the very least, for the first draft. 

When editing down, there are two types of edits: structural and line-by-line. Do the structural edits first. Sit with an experienced editor and decide if every part of the personal statement has meaning to the whole outcome. Be ruthless; if it’s off topic, cut it. 

After that, if you still need to reduce, do a line-by-line edit. This is a fine art that can be learned. Read the following first draft:

“Yes, of course I know how,” is what I said to my research mentor when he asked me if I knew how to optimize the XRD. The truth was, I did not know how to optimize the XRD, and so I went back to my computer 2 minutes later and went through 3 youtube videos and a catalogue of how to optimize an XRD, simply because I did not want him to think less of me. 

That’s 76 words. Here’s an edited second draft:

I looked my research mentor in the eye and lied, saying that I absolutely knew how to optimize the XRD. I was afraid to disappoint him, and YouTube is the world’s secret teacher anyways. 

That’s only 34 words. It contains the same ideas, delivered in less than half the words. You can learn to do this too. How?

• Replace dependent clauses with phrases or single adjectives
• Use a single well-chosen and sophisticated verb instead of ten less precise words
• Reduce the repetition: optimize the XRD is used three times in the first draft, but only once in the second draft

Some people can do this alone; others need some editorial help. 

Finally, we come back to the first question—how do you end your personal statement with a bang? There are many choices. You could end with a general statement of positivity about the future. You could end by repeating the lesson you’ve learned from your experience, and how you want to carry it into the future. Or you could end the way that this blog has ended—by returning to the first idea you stated, and finally answering the question that it poses. 

Whichever way you choose, remember that your personal statement is probably the most important piece of writing you will do in high school—so take care that it is the best it can possibly be!

If you’re interested in personalized assistance to make your essay shine, please check out out our College Essay Help service.

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With the introduction of the digital SAT, students will now have a more convenient and efficient way to approach this crucial test. While it was introduced at international test centers in the spring of 2023, the US is set to implement it in the spring of 2024 (likely March). Since the SAT administration recommends that students take the SAT in the spring of their junior year and then fall of their senior year, those in the class of 2025 and later will have the opportunity to experience the digital version.

Digital SAT Vs Paper SAT

The SAT can be taken on College Board’s Bluebook app on any tablet or laptop, personal or school-managed, but at a physical test center with in-person proctoring. Those without a device can submit a request at least 30 days in advance from the test day to borrow one. The digital SAT is shorter – while the paper version is 3 hours long and has 154 questions, the digital version is 2 hours and 14 minutes long with 98 questions. The test also contains fewer questions, so students have more time on average to answer each question. The test is broken down into the following sections:

Section 1: Reading & Writing (64 minutes)

• Module 1: 27 questions (32 minutes)
• Module 2: 27 questions (32 minutes)

Section 2: Math (70 minutes)

• Module 1: 22 questions (35 minutes)
• Module 2: 22 questions (35 minutes)

Reading passages will be shorter and with only one question for each. In addition, calculators will be allowed for the entire math section, with Desmos built into the testing application (though students can bring their own approved calculator). The questions will still be a mix of multiple-choice with some grid-in answers, and students can use scratch paper.

The application offers a set of tools that students can use while taking the test:

• Highlighting and annotating text for note-taking
• Answer eliminator
• “Mark for Review” for students to revisit questions easily
• Reference sheets for quick access to essential formulas or information

These replace the techniques that students are typically encouraged to employ on the paper version. Additionally, students will receive their scores in only a few days after taking the digital SAT instead of waiting 2-4 weeks for their test to be graded.

Is the Digital SAT Easier?

Yes, generally students think the digital SAT is more manageable, but it also translates to a harsher scoring curve – some students have reported that a single incorrect question brought their score down by 40 points. The digital SAT is adaptive, meaning that the difficulty of the test questions in Module 2 of each section depends on the student’s performance in Module 1. Students who do well in Module 1 will be presented with a more difficult version of Module 2, where each question is worth more. Those who perform less well in Module 1 will have an easier time with Module 2, but also less of an opportunity to score higher.

Although the digital SAT presents questions in a different format, it continues to assess the same skills and knowledge students need to be ready for college. Our 15 strategies and tips remains effective for students to achieve high scores; for example, because there is no penalty for guessing, it’s always better to make an educated guess than to leave a question blank. For customized support, we encourage you to explore our SAT Prep Program, designed to accelerate your progress in raising your SAT test scores, or read more about the digital SAT on our page.

Sources:

https://satsuite.collegeboard.org/digital

https://satsuite.collegeboard.org/digital/whats-on-the-test/structure

Need more personalized recommendations?

The above tips and recommendations are broad strokes on College Prep. If you have further questions, feel free to contact us for a personal consultation. We look forward to helping you.

About MathTowne

MathTowne is a locally-based tutoring resource. We are here to support students through the key phases of their academic journey: middle school, the transition to high school, all four years of high school, and college preparation. Our staff has years of experience in creating personalized lesson plans for all of our students.