
SAT Overview
SAT Overview The SAT changed considerably in March 2016. Here is an overview of the exam so you can know what to expect and decide if the SAT is the right test for you. Format The SAT consists of four required sections and an optional essay. Section 1: Reading (65 minutes; 52 questions) Section 2: Writing– multiple-choice grammar (35 minutes; 44 questions) Section 3: NO-Calculator math (25 minutes; 20 questions) Section 4: Calculator Allowed Math (55 minutes; 38 questions) Optional: Essay (50 minutes)
Test Content
SAT Reading tests:- vocabulary
- command of evidence / ability to find proof in the passage
- analysis of charts & graphs
- comprehension of college-bound text
- ability to find details and draw appropriate conclusions
- ability to edit writing and correct grammar & usage errors
- analysis of charts & graphs
- understanding of main ideas & effective evidence
- skill with editing the ideas and organization of another writer
- skills and concepts from Algebra I & II, geometry, and basic trigonometry
- ability to work without a calculator
- capacity for producing a response without multiple choice options
- understanding of relevant verses non-relevant data in a word problem
- basic, intermediate, and HARD math
Scoring
Students receive two scores on the current SAT:- Evidence-Based Reading & Writing (combination of sections one and two)
- Math (combination of calculator and no-calculator sections)
- Average (50%) total SAT score is 1020-1050 which is the same as a 20 on the ACT
- 75% SAT is 1200 – 1230 which is the same as a 25 on the ACT
- 90% SAT is 1310 – 1340 which is the same as a 28 on the ACT
- 95% SAT is 1390 – 1410 which is the same as a 30 on the ACT