Best SAT Prep Resources for 2025

The SAT is more than just a test that you have to take—it is a crucial step in the college admissions process that can help you get into your dream college. A great score can open doors to top universities, scholarships, and future opportunities. But let’s be honest: preparing for the SAT can be as stressful as actually taking the exam.

There are so many books, online courses, study techniques, and practice tests–so where do you even begin. Should you self-study, take a SAT prep course, or hire a tutor? How do you make sure that you’re studying the right way instead of just wasting hours rereading the same material? So here’s everything you need to know about how to conquer your SAT test preparation.

The Best SAT Study Materials 

Not all SAT prep materials offer the same value. Some books and courses are outdated while others don’t explain things well enough. For this reason, you need the right mix of strategy, practice resources, and review to improve your score.

Best SAT Prep Books

If you prefer studying with books, here are the ones that are worth your time and money:

The Official SAT Study Guide (College Board): The Must-Have Book 

• Why it’s great: This book contains real SAT questions from past tests. If you want the most accurate practice, start here.
• What’s included: Eight full-length SAT tests, detailed answer explanations, and test-day tips. 

The Princeton Review SAT Premium Prep - Best for Test Strategies 

• Why it’s great: Packed with test-taking strategies that help you move through the SAT faster and smarter. 
• What’s included: Eight practice tests, detailed content explanations, and strategies to avoid trap answers. 

Barron’s SAT Study Guide - Best for Advanced Students

• Why it’s great: This book is harder than the actual SAT, making it perfect for high scorers who want an extra challenge. 
• What’s included: In-depth explanations, difficult practice questions, and pacing strategies. 

Best Online SAT Prep Resources 

If you prefer digital learning, here are some online SAT prep platforms that work. With the increasing shift towards the digital SAT, these online platforms offer tools and resources that are compatible with the digital format:

Khan Academy (Free) - The Best Free Resource

• Why it’s great: It’s partnered with the College Board, so it uses real SAT questions and adapts to your strengths and weaknesses.
• What’s included: Personalized study plans, video tutorials, and full-length practice tests.

Park Tutoring SAT - Best for Answer Explanations

• Why it’s great: If you struggle with understanding why you got a question wrong, park Tutoring gives detailed explanations for every answer.
• What’s included: Over 1400 SAT practice questions, answer breakdowns, and performance analytics.

Magoosh SAT - Best for Video Lessons

• Why it’s great: If you like short, engaging videos instead of reading textbooks, Magoosh is a great option.
• What’s included: Over 100 video lessons, practice quizzes, and strategy guides.

How to Create an SAT Study Plan That Works 

Now that you have the right materials, it’s time to create a study schedule that fits your life.

• Step 1: Pick You SAT Test Date: Choose a test date at least three months away to give yourself enough time to prepare.
• Step 2: Set a Target Score, find out the average SAT scores for your target schools and aim slightly higher.
• Step 3: Determine How Many Hours You Need to Study

Taking a free practice test can help you assess your current level and determine how many hours you need to study.

Your study time depends on how much you need to improve:

• 0-50 pint increase - 10-20 hours
• 50-100 point increase - 20 - 40 hours
• 100-200 point increase - 40-80 hours
• 200+ point increase - 80 hours

Step 4: Follow a Weekly Study Plan
 

Day	Study Focus
Monday	Reading comprehension and vocabulary review
Tuesday	Math (Algebra and problem-solving)
Wednesday	Writing and Language practice, grammar drills
Thursday	Full-length practice (timed)
Friday	Review mistakes and targeted practice
Saturday	Math (Advanced topics) and essay practice
Sunday	Rest or light review

Step 5: Track Your Progress

• Use an SAT study planner or app to track your scores
• Focus on weak areas - don't just study what you’re already good at.
• Take full-length, timed practice tests regularly to build stamina.

The Best Free SAT Prep Resources You Should Use Right Now

Preparing for the SAT doesn’t have to be expensive. Many students believe they need to spend hundreds or even thousands of dollars on prep courses, but some of the best SAT resources are completely free. Many free online resources, such as those offered by Khan Academy, provide comprehensive support for SAT preparation. Here are the top free SAT prep tools that you should be using right now.

1. Digital SAT Prep on Park Tutoring (Best Free Personalized Prep)

Why it’s great: ParkTutoring offers expert SAT prep with personalized study plans, proven score-boosting strategies, and flexible scheduling to help you succeed.

What’s included:

• Full-length practice tests
• Interactive practice questions
• Video support explaining key SAT concepts
• Personalized study plans based on your weaknesses

How to use it: Start by taking a diagnostic test. The system will analyze your performance and customize a study plan just for you.

2. College Board’s Free SAT Practice Tests (Best for Real Test Experience)

Why it’s great: These are actual SAT exams from previous years, making them the most realistic practice tests available.

• What’s included: Eight full-length, timed SAT tests with answer explanations.

How to use them: Simulate real test conditions—time yourself, take the test in one sitting, and use a bubble sheet.

3. Reddit and Online Study Groups (Best for Community Support)

• Why it’s great: Many students have already taken the SAT and can offer valuable tips and strategies.
• Where to find them: Join the SAT subreddit, Discord study groups, or Facebook SAT prep communities.
• How to use them: Ask for advice, share strategies, and learn from others’ mistakes and successes.

How to Use Official SAT Practice Tests to Your Advantage

Practice tests are the most effective way to improve your SAT score. But many students take them without a strategy—and that’s a mistake. Utilizing a free SAT practice test from the College Board can give you a realistic sense of the exam and help you identify areas for improvement. Here’s how to make your practice tests count.

1. Take Full-Length, Timed Practice Tests

The SAT isn’t just about knowledge—it’s about stamina. The test lasts over three hours, so you need to build mental endurance.

• Set aside uninterrupted time to take the test.
• Use a timer and a bubble sheet to simulate the real exam.
• Take the test in a quiet place without distractions.

2. Analyze Your Mistakes

After taking a test, don’t just look at your score and move on. The real improvement happens when you analyze your mistakes.

• Did you misread the question? (Test-day nerves or rushing?)
• Did you run out of time? (Need to improve pacing?)
• Did you make a careless mistake? (Need to double-check work?)
• Did you genuinely not understand the question? (Need to study that topic more?)

3. Focus on Weak Areas

If you’re consistently getting Algebra word problems wrong, you shouldn’t spend hours on Reading. Identify your weakest sections and spend extra time improving them.

4. Retake the Same Practice Test After a Few Weeks

A great way to measure improvement is to retake the same test after a few weeks. If you still get certain questions wrong, it’s a sign that you need deeper review of those concepts.

The Best SAT Apps for Studying on the Go

SAT test prep doesn’t have to be boring. If you’re always on your phone, why not turn that screen time into SAT study time? Here are some of the best SAT apps to help you study anytime, anywhere.

1. Daily Practice for the SAT (Best for Quick Daily Study)

• Why it’s great: Gives you a new SAT question every day to keep your brain sharp.
• Best feature: Official practice from the College Board, with explanations for every answer.

2. Magoosh SAT Prep (Best for Video Lessons)

• Why it’s great: Short, engaging video lessons that explain SAT concepts in simple terms.
• Best feature: Easy-to-follow lessons with practice quizzes.

3. Quizlet SAT Vocab (Best for Learning SAT Words)

• Why it’s great: Uses flashcards and games to help you memorize high-frequency SAT words.

4. Park Tutoring SAT (Best for High-Quality Practice Questions)

• Why it’s great: The answer explanations are better than most SAT prep books.

SAT Private Tutoring: Is It Worth It? Pros and Cons

Private SAT tutoring is a big investment, and many students wonder: Is it actually worth the cost? The truth is, it depends on your learning style, goals, and budget. Private tutors can also provide targeted support for SAT subject tests, helping you excel in specific areas. To help you decide, let’s break down the pros and cons of SAT private tutoring.

Pros of SAT Private Tutoring

1. Personalized Attention & Customized Study Plans

One of the biggest benefits of private tutoring is that everything is tailored to you. Unlike a group class, where lessons follow a set curriculum, private tutoring focuses only on what you need. Tutors can also help you prepare for SAT subject tests, offering tailored strategies and practice materials.

2. Faster Score Improvement

Because private tutors identify your weaknesses right away, you don’t waste time studying things you already know. Instead, you focus on the areas that will make the biggest impact on your score.

3. Flexible Scheduling

With private tutoring, you can schedule lessons at a time that works best for you. Whether you prefer early morning sessions, evenings, or weekends, your tutor can adapt to your schedule.

4. Test-Taking Strategies That Work

A great tutor doesn’t just teach content—they teach you how to beat the test. This includes time management skills, guessing strategies, and shortcuts that can help you solve questions faster and more accurately.

5. Increased Confidence & Reduced Anxiety

Many students struggle with test anxiety, which can lower their score. Private tutoring helps build confidence by giving you a structured plan, realistic practice, and expert guidance—so you walk into the SAT feeling prepared and in control.

Cons of SAT Private Tutoring

1. Can Be Expensive

Private tutoring is more expensive than self-study or group classes. However, the return on investment can be worth it if it leads to a higher SAT score and better college scholarships.

2. Requires Commitment & Effort

A tutor can guide you, but they can’t take the test for you. You still need to put in the work, complete assignments, and practice regularly to see real results.

3. Not All Tutors Are Equal

Some SAT tutors are more qualified than others. That’s why it’s important to choose a reputable tutoring service like Park Tutoring, where tutors have proven expertise and a track record of success.

Who Should Consider Private SAT Tutoring?

Private SAT tutoring is especially helpful for students who:

• Have a specific score goal and need structured guidance.
• Struggle with certain SAT sections (e.g., math, reading, writing).
• Need accountability and motivation to stay on track.
• Are aiming for highly competitive colleges and need every advantage.

If any of these apply to you, investing in a tutor could be the best decision you make for your SAT prep.

Ace the SAT with Park Tutoring

The SAT is a big deal—it’s your chance to stand out in college applications and earn scholarships. But preparing for it can feel overwhelming. Where do you start? What should you focus on? That’s where Park Tutoring comes in. We don’t just help you study—we help you succeed. Our personalized approach ensures you focus on what matters most, with expert tutors, proven strategies, and flexible scheduling to make SAT prep stress-free and effective.

Success on the SAT isn’t just about knowing the material—it’s about knowing how to take the test. Our tutors teach you smart shortcuts, elimination strategies, and pacing techniques to help you work smarter, not harder. With both in-person and online options, we make it easy to fit SAT prep into your busy life. The SAT is important, but you don’t have to do this alone. Join Park Tutoring today and let’s get you the score you deserve!

Conclusion: Give Yourself the Best Chance at SAT Success

• You now have everything you need to take control of your SAT prep—from the best study materials and practice strategies to top free resources and expert guidance.
• But preparation is only part of the equation. To truly maximize your score, you need to study effectively, use the right techniques, and stay motivated throughout the process.
• While self-study works for some, the reality is that most students perform better with expert guidance. At Park Tutoring, we don’t just prepare students for the SAT—we help them build confidence, develop smart test-taking strategies, and achieve their best possible scores.
• Don’t leave your SAT score—and your college future—to chance. Join Park Tutoring today and take the first step toward SAT success!