Prepare for the SAT Format
The SAT might feel like the most important test of your life, and you may wonder how long does the SAT take, how many questions are on the SAT, or what is the SAT format exactly. After all, you’re taking it to show colleges that you’re ready for college-level coursework. However, it’s still just a test — and it’s one that you have been preparing for since you started school.
Depending on when you take your test and the classes you’ve taken so far, you may or may not have been introduced to all the information and concepts covered on the SAT. For example, there might be some SAT math problems you haven’t encountered yet in your math classes.
However, you can still prepare for success, even if you’re wondering what is on the SAT. It starts with understanding what will be on the test, including the SAT sections and SAT format. Here’s a breakdown of the format and what you can expect.
The Basics of the SAT Format
Since the optional essay portion of the SAT was discontinued in 2021, there are now three main sections: Evidence-Based Reading, Writing and Language, and Math (with calculator and non-calculator questions). The exam consists of 154 questions, and students are allowed 180 minutes to complete it.
You might be interested in knowing how many questions are on the SAT. Well, there are 52 questions in the Reading portion, and 65 minutes are allotted for this section. Students will have 35 minutes to complete the 44 questions in the Writing and Language portion, and 80 minutes are granted to complete the 58 questions in the math section.
The SAT is largely made up of multiple-choice questions, but the math portion also includes grid-in (student-produced response) questions.
Evidence-Based Reading
You’ve probably worked on reading comprehension since you first learned to read, as mastery of this topic is important for every subject you study in school.
The Evidence-Based Reading portion of the SAT will test your knowledge of words in context and ask you to analyze and interpret data from graphs, charts, and passages covering core subjects. These subjects could include literature, science, history, social studies, and humanities, as well as career-related topics.
Writing and Language
Clear and accurate communication is key when it comes to the Writing and Language portion of the SAT. As with the reading portion, you’ll be asked to analyze passages and data. You might determine whether a phrase makes sense in the context of a paragraph. In some cases, you will edit writing samples and correct grammatical errors.
Math (Calculator and No Calculator)
The Math portion of the test includes 20 questions for which you can use a calculator and 38 questions for which you cannot. You’ll have 25 minutes for the former and 55 minutes for the latter.
The questions are broken down into three categories: Problem Solving and Data Analysis, Heart of Algebra, and Passport to Advanced Math. These categories will cover knowledge ranging from ratios and percentages to equations and expressions to manipulations and more.
Preparing for the SAT
Understanding the topics covered on the SAT is the best way to set up a solid study plan, especially if you’re curious about the SAT format. but you may need some assistance. SAT prep courses and private tutoring are designed to help you study, practice, and focus on potential problem areas so you can effectively ready yourself for testing.Are you seeking a reputable test prep service with a proven track record? Sign up for tutoring with Jantzi today or check out our courses.
