By: John Magbitang
The Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) is a standardized test offered by CollegeBoard that aims to evaluate a student’s knowledge in reading, writing, and math. This test allows colleges to determine your readiness and also allows them to compare you with other applicants with one common data point. With the last paper-and-pencil SAT being administered in December 2023 nationwide, the SAT is now only available to be taken digitally. The digital SAT scores range from 400 to 1600 and it is divided into two sections: (1) Reading and Writing and (2) Math. The digital SAT is structured differently compared to the paper SAT and can be best summarized by the table as shown below.
It is important to aim for a good score for the SAT as a higher score will increase your chances of receiving merit-based scholarships and positively affect your chances of getting accepted into a college, if you choose to submit it. The SAT is not an ordinary test that is similar to the ones you take regularly in school. That’s why I gave out some tips to help you prepare for the digital SAT, with the earliest test date coming in March.
1. Start Early
As mentioned before, the digital SAT is not an ordinary test. When preparing for your test, you should have an adequate amount of preparation. It is recommended that you have started preparing for the test two to three months before your actual test date. You should have also at least taken two full-length practice tests so you know what to expect.
2. Practice Under Real World Conditions
Take a full-length practice test as if you’re actually taking the test. This will help you calm your nerves on the actual test day and also practice your pacing on the test and allow you to review which sections and skills you need to work on. The Bluebook app allows you to take several full-length practice tests for free, and it is available on all of your school iPads. You simply need to sign in with your CollegeBoard account (you can create one on collegeboard.org if you don’t have one).
You must follow these conditions if you want to prepare for the Digital SAT as if it’s the actual test day.
- Use the same device you’re taking the test on if possible and make sure you have Bluebook installed and it is fully charged.
- Wake up on Saturday on 8:00 AM and set up in a quiet place (I do not think this is necessary; you can take it sometime and somewhere else such as the library)
- Keep strict timing on each section of the test and only follow the official breaks.
3. Know The Content
If you’ve been paying attention to your classes, then good! Most, if not all, of the content tested on the SAT has been discussed previously in your English and Math classes by the time you’ve reached 11th grade. However, if you have not learned about these topics yet or need a recap then you can use KhanAcademy for free which offers practice questions, videos, and lessons on the skills and concepts you need to know before taking the test. You can also use other resources such as YouTube videos, tutoring and test prep classes.
For math, it is important to remember math properties and formulas that are not provided to you on the actual test. This video by Scalar Learning covers them really well.
4. Learn to use the Desmos Graphing Calculator
One of the new features of the digital SAT is the built-in Desmos Graphing Calculator. You should familiarize yourself with the tool as it can help you solve math problems on the test much quicker or double-check your answers.
By following these tips, you should be ready to take the digital SAT. If you’ve already taken it, you can always try again to get a higher score. Getting a lower score on your retake will not penalize you, as you’ll be able to decide which score(s) you are going to send to your colleges. The registration for the digital SAT costs $60.00 but you can take the test for free twice if you qualify for a fee waiver (contact your counselor if you believe you qualify for it).
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