How to Study for the SAT in Just Two Weeks: A Strategic Guide

The SAT is right around the corner, so here’s what to do when you’ve only got two weeks to prepare. Even if you don’t have much time, you can still make measurable improvements if you study smart. Use this step-by-step guide to maximize your results in a limited timeframe.

1. Start with a Diagnostic Test

Before you do anything else, take a full-length practice test under timed conditions. This will:

• Show you your baseline score.

• Reveal your strongest and weakest areas.

• Help you decide where to focus in the next two weeks.

This step is essential. With a limited timeframe, you need to strategically improve in the areas that will give you the biggest score boost.

2. Build a Two-Week Study Schedule

When time is limited, consistency is key. Aim to study for at least an hour a day on weekdays and longer sessions (2-3 hours) on weekends. A balanced plan could look like this:

• Week 1: Focus on content review and targeted practice.

• Week 2: Emphasize timed practice tests, tweaking your study areas, and utilizing the most effective test-taking strategies.

Try to take at least two more full-length practice tests before the official exam. Download this free 2-week SAT Success Study Calendar for inspiration.

3. Focus on High-Yield Topics

Not all SAT content is created equal. In addition to studying the areas where you need the most work, prioritize the areas that come up most frequently. Don’t waste your time drilling obscure topics. Learn the patterns the SAT loves to test.

As much as 70% of the math section is algebra, so make sure you review linear and quadratic equations and functions. You'll also want to be comfortable with word problems, ratios, and percentages.

In reading, you’ll need to have a solid understanding of main ideas, the author’s purpose, and vocabulary in context.

For writing and language, brush up on grammar and punctuation rules.

4. Learn and Apply Test-Taking Strategies

With limited prep time, strategies can often give quicker score gains than content review alone. Some essentials:

• Desmos: If you’re not already using the Desmos calculator, you’ll want to get familiar with it ASAP. Used correctly, this helpful, embedded tool can help you answer up to 70% of the math questions. While Tutorllini Test Prep has a fantastic Desmos course available, when you’re strapped for time, you can learn a lot about how to use Desmos from this video.

• Utilize the reference sheet: Remember, the SAT provides a reference sheet with many geometry formulas. Get familiar with it so you know which formulas you should memorize and which ones you don’t have to.

• Active reading: Use the highlight tool in the reading section to help you maintain focus..

• Pacing: Don’t get stuck on one question—utilize the mark for review flag to move on and come back later. Pro tip: always choose an answer in case you run out of time before you can return to the question.

• Use a process of elimination: Looking for incorrect answers can often lead you to the correct answer. 

5. Use the Right Resources

Two weeks is not the time to drown in prep materials. Pick one or two solid resources and stick to them. Good options include:

• The Official Bluebook SAT Practice Tests and The College Board Question Bank (free).

• Khan Academy’s SAT prep, customized to your weaknesses.

• A focused SAT prep book broken down into chapters by subject area.

6. Practice Like It’s the Real Test

The SAT is not only about knowledge—it’s about time management and stamina.

• Always follow the time constraints on practice exams.

• Simulate test-day conditions by finding a quiet space to work without digital and other distractions. Pro tip: go to the library or a quiet coffee shop to take your practice test.

• Time yourself on individual practice problems

7. Fine-Tune in your Final Days

In the last three days:

• Do a light review—don’t try to cram new material.

• Review your “cheat sheets” of formulas, grammar rules, and strategies.

• Eat right and get on a healthy sleep schedule.

On the night before the test: close the books, relax, and get at least 8 hours of sleep.

While two weeks isn’t enough to reinvent your SAT skills, it is enough to sharpen your strengths, improve your weaknesses, and build test-day confidence. With a clear plan, focused, consistent practice, and the right mindset, you can walk into test day knowing you used those 14 days wisely.