Thursday, 3 November 2016

What are the differences between the old SAT and the new SAT?

The main tool in scoring the SATs is to know the exact pattern and format of the exam. SAT has changed its format, and the new format is very different to the old one. The major updates in the new SAT are the scoring, format, reading, writing, math and administration.

The SAT will be scored on a total of 1600 marks in which there will be 800 for math and 800 for evidence-based reading and writing. There is an optional essay which will be scored separately, and there are no wrong answer penalties.

In the new SAT format, there will be one Evidence-Based Reading and Writing test, a 65-minute reading section with a 35-minute language and writing section. There will be one math test which will feature two sessions, one 55 minute section with a calculator and a 25-minute section without a calculator. There will be one optional essay test which will be given 50 minutes. There are four answer choices for every multiple choice question.

In the reading and writing section, there will be evidence based reading section, but there won’t be any sentence completions. There will be a few tests which include understanding passages from the US and World Literature. It will also include History, Social Studies, and Social Sciences. All the questions will be from extended prose ranging from 400 - 450 words.

In the Math section, the main questions will be surrounding problem solving, data analysis, the heart of algebra and the passport to advanced math. There will be real-world problem-solving questions which will be accompanied by informational graphics.

The administration section will be for 3 hours or 3 hours and 50 minutes if you take the optional essay. It is available both in the printed and digital format. The essay is not compulsory, but it is optional.


For those who are taking the SATs, they should know that the SATs are very important as they decide whether you get into the college of your dreams or not. A thorough and good preparation are crucial for making sure that you crack the SATs.

No comments:

Post a Comment