Read everything literally. This means that you take nothing for granted and make no assumption that isn't directly supported by information in the problem. Here's how that applies to each section on the SAT:
Math Sections
In these sections, FIGURES ARE ALWAYS DRAWN TO SCALE UNLESS THEY SAY "FIGURE NOT DRAWN TO SCALE". Here are some of the assumptions you can make from figures drawn to scale:
- angles - Does the angle look bigger or smaller than 90 degrees? Classifying an angle as acute, obtuse, or right can help you eliminate incorrect answer choices.
- line segments - If line segments appear to bisect each other, assume that they do (which means they're equal).
Some figures are explicitly labeled as "not drawn to scale". In these cases, the figures contain errors designed to trick you into making an invalid assumption. Redrawing the figure yourself can help you get an accurate image of the problem. Sometimes you only need to identify where the figure is inaccurate and that info alone will reveal how they're trying to trick you. Keep in mind that even if the figure is not drawn to scale, the relative positions of the angles and sides will still be accurate.
Reading Sections
Do not let your personal reaction to the content distract from your analysis of it. Keep in mind that the purpose of this section is to test how well you understand written language. In this context, your opinion is irrelevant. Even if you vehemently disagree with a point that the author is making, your goal is to understand that point. Your goal isn't to identify that point as right or wrong.
Writing Sections
When writing your essay, assume that you are talking to the dumbest substitute teacher you've ever had. Yes, they've heard of George Bush or Michael Jackson. But beyond such obviously common knowledge, assume that they're morons and need everything laid out clearly. EVERY POINT OR CONCLUSION YOU MAKE SHOULD BE EXPLICITLY STATED. Imagine that they are actively looking for a reason to say "Ah ha! This student skipped a step in their argument. That's gonna cost 'em!"