SAT Section Overview

Like any other exam, the SAT should be approached with a combination of awareness and dedicated preparation. In this article, we'll outline the four main sections of the SAT, along with a few quick tips on how to max your score in each. 

 

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SAT Exam Sections

 Evidence-based reading

  • Writing and Language

  • Math (no calculator)

  • Math (calculator allowed)

SAT Evidence-Based Reading

The SAT Reading section assesses your ability to read closely and comprehend complex texts across all subject areas. You will be asked questions that show your understanding of the text's central idea, the author's purpose, and how details in the passage support that purpose. You will also need to draw connections between ideas or phrases in different text parts.

Details

  • 52, multiple-choice questions to be completed within 65 minutes

  • Will include a passage or a pair of passages that cover topics ranging from literature, historical documents, social sciences, and natural sciences

Quick Tips on How to Boost Your SAT Reading Score

  • Be sure to read each passage closely and carefully.

  • Please pay attention to words in bold or italics, as they are often crucial for understanding the text's central theme.

  • Look out for transition words, such as "however" or "therefore," that indicate shifts in ideas.

  • Take note of any names, dates, or other details mentioned in the passage, as these are often used as clues for questions.



SAT Writing and Language

The SAT Writing and Language section assesses your ability to understand how sentences work together to express ideas clearly and effectively. You will be asked questions that test your understanding of grammar, usage conventions, sentence structure, rhetorical devices, and stylistic elements.

Details

  • 44, multiple-choice questions to be completed within 35 minutes.

  • The passages cover career and college readiness, science, history/social studies, arts & culture, ethics, and cross-disciplinary themes.

  • Grammar, vocabulary in context, and editing skills.

Quick Tips on How to Boost Your SAT Writing and Language Score

  • Take time to read and understand the given passage.

  • Be aware of grammar rules such as comma use, verb tense, or pronoun agreement.

  • Pay attention to details, such as transitions between sentences.

  • Use context clues to answer some questions.

  • Check your answers thoroughly by reading each answer choice carefully and making sure there are no mistakes.

SAT Math (No Calculator)

The SAT Math (No Calculator) section assesses your ability to solve math problems with pencil and paper. You will be asked questions that involve arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis.

Details

  • Twenty multiple-choice questions are to be completed within 25 minutes.

  • It will include a variety of topics, such as functions, linear equations, ratios, proportions, and basic geometry.

Quick Tips on How to Boost Your SAT Math (No Calculator) Score

  • Be sure to read each question thoroughly before trying to solve it.

  • Know the order of operations and use them when solving equations.

  • Remember formulas for common shapes such as triangles, circles, and parallelograms.

  • Break down complex problems into simpler parts so you can answer them more easily.

  • Check your answers twice to make sure there are no mistakes.

 

SAT Math (Calculator Allowed)

The SAT Math (Calculator Allowed) section assesses your ability to solve more complex math problems with the help of a calculator. You will be asked questions involving arithmetic, algebra, probabilities, and data analysis.

Details

  • 38 multiple-choice questions to be completed within 55 minutes

  • Questions will include topics such as polynomials, quadratics, trigonometry, and exponents

Quick Tips on How to Boost Your SAT Math (Calculator Allowed) Score

  • Be sure to read each question and understand what is being asked before attempting to solve it.

  • Familiarize yourself with the functions of your calculator and use them when needed.

  • Feel free to guess if you are unsure of the answer.

  • Check your answers twice, making sure there are no mistakes.

These tips can help increase your performance on the SAT and give you an edge over other test-takers. With enough practice and dedication, you can achieve a great score on the SAT. Good luck!

Master the the SATs and ACTs with the best examination prep experience anywhere. One-on-One sessions with Brian Leaf. The best-selling author of 10 SAT/ACT prep books.

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