Taking any test is difficult. But preparing for a test individually will help you out on the composite score, because each type of standardized test is set up with its own set of rules.

The SAT has its own set of rules that you must know in order to score effectively. Maximize your time with these 10 Tips.

1. Answer every question.

You are no longer penalized for incorrect answers. The SAT has reversed their penalty of 1/4 point for incorrect answers, so you can guess answers to some questions you’re not sure of.

2. Choose which questions to answer first.

You can select which questions to answer first. You don’t have to complete them in order. Circle the question in your test booklet and move on to a simpler question. You don’t get any extra points for more difficult questions. Get the easy point when you can.

3. Use Process of Elimination (POE)

Before answering a question, you can get rid of many wrong choices. Wrong answers are often easy to find. Look for extremes like “never” “only” “always” in the Reading test. Look for opposites in the Math section like a substitution of –1 for 1. Look for words that sound similar in the Writing and Language test like “conjunctive” and “subjunctive.”

4. Transfer your questions at the end of each section.

Avoid going back and forth between the scantron and the test booklet. Just write your answers on the test booklet and transfer them over at the end of every section or page. This way, you will make fewer mistakes and save time.

5. Use the order of difficulty to your advantage

The SAT Math section is arranged from easiest to most difficult. The obvious answers toward the beginning of the section may be correct. If you’re in the final third of a section, beware of the obvious answer choices because they’re probably there to distract you.

6. Slow down.

Instead of guessing at the entire lot, try slowing down. You will get a better score once you answer 75% of the test questions correctly.

7. Cross-check your ovals.

At the end of each section, cross check your answers with your scantron ovals. Make sure you’re not skipping a question.

8. Write in the test booklet.

Use pencil to write on your test booklet. Scratch out wrong choices, and write down formulas and equations. Solve math problems, outline, paraphrase, and underline to help you read. No one is going to read what you wrote in the test booklet, so use it to your advantage.

9. Do not give your opinion in the SAT Essay.

If you will take the SAT Essay, don’t give your opinion. You need to critique someone else’s opinion.

10. Don’t second-guess yourself.

Trust your instinct. Your first answer choice is usually correct. Don’t go back through the test and change your answer unless you’re sure that you are absolutely incorrect.

Do you know any other tips and strategies to pass the SAT? Share them through comments below.