Select software that includes a variety of prep and practice materials. It should also offer lessons that can help you improve in specific areas.
Find software that addresses your individual needs. If, for instance, your weakest area is completing math problems, select test prep software with emphasis on the math section. Some software also emphasizes test-taking skills.
Do not select software packages that are nothing more than compilations of practice tests. While you may be able to improve your score by taking test after test, software that explains questions is likely to be more useful.
Fine-tune your SAT focus by taking a practice test. The College Board offers a free practice SAT on its website (see Resources below). You may discover that your weakness is not in a specific subject, but is instead in a specific test-taking skill, like completing questions within the time limit.
Compare the test materials in software packages to the practice questions available from the College Board website. Practice most with prep materials similar to the actual test, so that you become comfortable with the material you will see on the actual SAT.