Achieve SAT success through these study guides
The SAT, a digital-only college-entrance exam measuring students' writing, critical reading, and mathematics skills, is set to return for the 2025-2026 school year. Here's a guide to help you prepare, with a focus on top-recommended study materials.
Essential SAT Prep Books for the 2025-2026 School Year
Princeton Review's SAT & PSAT Prep Series
The Princeton Review's SAT & PSAT prep series stands out as the leading and most updated provider for this test cycle. The series offers a wide range of tailored books for different skill levels, including the most current editions such as 6 Practice Tests for the Digital SAT, 2026, Digital SAT Premium Prep 2026, and subject-specific workbooks like Math Workout for the SAT and Reading and Writing Workout for the SAT. These books are noted for their thorough coverage and updated content aligned with the digital SAT format.
If you're looking for a budget-friendly option within the Princeton Review offerings, consider more introductory or focused guides like Stress-Free SAT and SAT Power Vocab.
Comprehensive Resources
For broader or intensive SAT prep, the Princeton Review’s complete practice test collections and advanced prep editions are ideal. These are designed for deep learning and extensive practice, making them suitable for students aiming for top scores.
Additional Prep Resources
Digital PSAT 8/9 Prep 2025-2026 by Lydia Morrison is another valuable resource, offering multiple practice tests and strategic guidance, useful for PSAT preparation and early SAT practice.
A Step-by-Step SAT Prep Process
- Read the introduction: Familiarise yourself with the SAT prep book's structure and strategies.
- Take a diagnostic test: Assess your current skill level and identify areas that require improvement.
- Set a goal score: Determine the score you aim to achieve on the SAT.
- Determine how much you need to increase your score: Calculate the difference between your current score and your goal score.
- Study using the SAT prep book and supplementary materials: Follow a study schedule, dedicating at least 20 hours to studying for a potential 70-point improvement, or 40 hours for a 100-point improvement. Start by targeting weaker areas first to maximize score improvement.
- Register for the SAT at least three months in advance: Ensure you have enough time to prepare and review.
- Look for an SAT prep book with a skill or subject diagnostic test: This will help you measure your progress and focus your studies effectively.
Preparing for the Exam Day
On the morning of the exam, gather necessary supplies such as a charged approved testing device with the Bluebook application installed, graphing calculator, pencils, photo ID, and SAT admission ticket.
The SAT is administered on the following dates in the 2025-2026 school year: Aug. 23, Sept. 13, Oct. 4, Nov. 8, Dec. 6, March 14, May 2, June 6. The exam takes 2 hours and 14 minutes.
[1] Source: Princeton Review's official website. [5] Source: Lydia Morrison's official website.
- Students seeking comprehensive learning and self-development opportunities can enroll in online-education platforms offering SAT preparation courses for the 2025-2026 school year.
- To support their overall education-and-self-development and keep pace with the evolving demands of online-education, students can supplement their SAT preparation with health-focused activities, ensuring optimal physical and mental well-being during the intensive learning period.
