Dear Readers,

    Hi, this is Bingyin. I am now in my junior year in high school in the United States. As a guest contributor to this column, I’d like to address the following topic: An increasing number of students in China and around the world are interested in studying at U.S. universities, such as Princeton. Around junior year, talk of SATs surfaces. So what are SATs, and how do you ace them?

    SATs are a set of standardized tests that high school students have to take to enter college. There are two types: SAT I, which consists of reading, writing, and maths, and SAT II, which comprises subject tests that assess knowledge of physics, chemistry, literature, history and other subjects.

    To prepare for SAT II, you must have a basic knowledge of the subject you are taking. You should have at least taken a course on the subject. For SAT I, there are tutoring courses that you can attend to improve your reading, writing and mathematical skills.

    In addition to knowledge and skill, however, you also have to practice to achieve a perfect score. Practice makes perfect, as the saying goes. With each practice test you take, you’ll learn from your mistakes and increase your knowledge of the subject. Even for subjects that you feel confident in, you should still take plenty of practice tests to familiarize yourself for the actual test.

    You can buy practice books, ask others who have taken the tests for experience, and ask teachers to help you with your questions. Try to make use of all the resources available, and don’t hesitate to ask for help.

    When you take practice tests on your own, be sure to simulate an environment similar to that of the real test. For example, test in quiet surroundings and time yourself. Give yourself ample time to prepare. Start at least a few weeks in advance for subject tests, and a month in advance for SAT I.

    Try to get a good night’s sleep the night before the test. On the day of the test, make sure to take enough pencils, calculators and other essential material. It’s okay if you feel nervous before the test. In fact, your nervousness might even help improve your performance. It may stimulate adrenaline production, which makes you more active and excited. Just remember, prepare and do your best, because opportunities are for those who are prepared.

    Good Luck!

    Sincerely, Bingyin