The SAT Reasoning Test is a standardized test used for college admissions. Formerly known as the Academic Aptitude Test or SAT I. Published by the College Board, a nonprofit organization, the SAT is administered seven times a year. Currently, SAT scores range from 600 to 2400, and the test is divided into three equally weighted sections: critical reading, math, and writing. Understanding the material that will be on the test and how it is presented is critical to its success. You may want to consider taking an SAT practice test or an SAT prep class to make sure you get it right.
In the critical reading section, formerly known as the verbal section, you are expected to answer multiple-choice questions designed to test your vocabulary and reading comprehension. There are two types of questions: complete sentences and those that are based on reading passages. Sentence completion questions ask the examinee to select an appropriate word to complete a sentence. The reading passages are varied in nature; they range from narratives to passages from the social sciences. Questions about the passages assess the student’s ability to identify the important aspects of the passage. There is another form of this type of question in which the student is asked to compare two shorter passages and answer questions about them.
The math section includes multiple-choice questions and grid questions or fill-in-the-blank questions. Calculators are allowed, but not all. This section assesses a variety of topics, including, but not limited to, basic number theory, geometry, and algebra. There are ten grid questions that require you to write and bubble your answer.
Finally, the writing section consists of an essay and multiple-choice questions. The essay, which makes up 28% of the writing score, is scored by two raters on a scale of 2 to 12. You are given a guideline, or topic, to write the essay. Multiple-choice questions in the essay section assess your ability to identify sentence errors and edit the essay.
Another important aspect of the SAT is time limits. Generally, you have 3 hours and 45 minutes to complete the SAT. The SAT format is as follows. There are two 25-minute critical reading sections and one 20-minute section; all critical reading sections are multiple choice. The writing section consists of a 25-minute essay and two multiple-choice sections, one of 25 minutes and the other of 10 minutes. The math part is made up of two 25-minute sections and one 20-minute section. There is also a 25 minute “variable section” that is used to normalize scores. Being aware of time limits is critical to being successful on the SAT.
Together, all of these factors make the SAT stressful and intimidating. SAT prep courses are often a good way to help you prepare for the rigors of the test. There are many options available, online and in person. Online SAT prep courses offer flexibility and the ability to retake sections that you are struggling with. In-person SAT prep classes or tutorials offer a classroom setting and structure, which some people prefer. No matter what you choose, make sure your course offers a score increase guarantee and use the official College Board SAT practice tests so you can get the most out of your investment.