Many students assume that a lower SAT score means they don’t know enough math or reading. In reality, a large portion of lost points comes from avoidable mistakes, not lack of ability. At Kingfisher Prep, we see the same patterns again and again. Students often understand the material—but fall into predictable traps that drag scores down. The good news? Once you recognize these 5 common pitfalls on the SAT, they’re fixable.

Raising your SAT Math score by 100 points or more isn’t about studying longer—it’s about studying better. Many students plateau not because they lack ability, but because their prep isn’t targeted. At Kingfisher Prep, we’ve seen consistent, meaningful score jumps when students shift from general practice to strategic, data-driven preparation. Here are ten methods that work.

One of the most common questions students ask early in the college process is deceptively simple: Should I take the SAT or the ACT? The good news is that colleges accept both tests equally. There is no “better” test in the eyes of admissions offices. The real question is which exam allows you to demonstrate your strengths most clearly. At Kingfisher Prep, we help students approach this decision strategically...

For many students, fall and early winter can feel relentless. Between standardized testing, college applications, schoolwork, and extracurricular commitments, it often seems like there’s no room to breathe. The pressure to “use every minute wisely” can turn winter break into just another work sprint. At Kingfisher Prep, we encourage a different approach: one that values strategic effort and intentional rest.

For many families, the college application process raises a difficult question: How much should parents help?Of course you want to help! Applying to college is a pivotal moment in your child’s life, so it’s natural to want to assist them as much as possible.  The key is finding the right balance between supporting them and smothering them.

Many applications ask a version of this familiar prompt: “Describe one of your extracurricular activities or work experiences.” It sounds straightforward, but students often end up summarizing responsibilities or achievements rather than offering genuine insight. You already have a section of the application dedicated to bullet points and awards. This essay is your chance to move beyond the list and show admissions readers the person behind the activity.