Choose a test date that give you enough time to study and meet the application deadlines of your preferred college. Most students like to test early enough so they can repeat the test at least once if they want to try for higher scores.
Review your academic performance in math class to assess which areas need the most work. You may be a strong math student and only require general review. You may struggle in one or more math areas and need intense prep. Be realistic about what you can and cannot do so that you can make the most of your prep time.
Gather study materials. Test prep books are usually available in the school counselor's office, the school library, and bookstores. Using these workbooks is an excellent method of study. The Internet offers extensive resources, many coming from the College Board itself, the organization that administers the test. Some combination of these resources will be most helpful.
Register for test prep classes or tutoring, if necessary. Your math teacher or school may offer this free, which is an invaluable resource for any test-taker, even those who only need light, general practice. Those classes may be costly, but they are worth consideration if you need significant help.
Make a study schedule. Pace yourself and practice a little each day, every other day, or on the weekends. When time is limited, do just a handful of problems. But, make sure you take a full-size practice test, alone and timed, at least once or twice. It is important you practice the test in a timed environment similar to the one for the test.
Pace yourself. Keep your study schedule and do not try to study for extended periods of time in the days leading up to the test. While a little extra studying is fine, do not study so much that you burn out the day before the actual test day.