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Understanding the Structure, Content, and Changes in the Digital SAT for 2024
The SAT, transitioning from the traditional paper-and-pencil format to a fully digital one, brings significant changes to the testing experience. Here’s an in-depth look at the syllabus to help you prepare effectively.
Syllabus Overview
The Digital Scholastic Assessment Test is divided into two main sections: Reading and Writing (RW) and Math. Each section is adaptive, meaning the difficulty level adjusts based on the test-taker’s performance. Here’s a breakdown of what each section entails.
Reading and Writing Section
The Reading and Writing section has been combined into one, featuring shorter and more direct questions. The test is divided into two modules, each containing discrete questions that don’t rely on a shared passage.
- Total Questions: 54 (27 per module, including pretest questions)
- Time Allotted: 64 minutes (32 minutes per module)
- Average Time per Question: Approximately 1.19 minutes
Content Focus:
- Grammar and Punctuation: Mastery of English grammar rules and punctuation.
- Reading Comprehension: Ability to understand and interpret shorter passages.
- Writing and Language: Skill in identifying and correcting errors in text.
Math Section
The Math section also consists of two modules in Digital SAT, with a built-in graphing calculator available throughout.
- Total Questions: 44 (22 per module, including pretest questions)
- Time Allotted: 70 minutes (35 minutes per module)
- Average Time per Question: Approximately 1.59 minutes
Content Focus:
- Algebra: Linear equations, inequalities, and systems of equations.
- Advanced Math: Quadratic equations, polynomial operations, and absolute-value equations.
- Problem Solving and Data Analysis: Ratios, percentages, data interpretation, and statistical analysis.
- Geometry and Trigonometry: Perimeter, area, volume, angles, triangles, and trigonometry.
Key Changes in the Digital SAT
- Adaptive Testing: The digital format uses multistage adaptive testing (MST), adjusting question difficulty based on performance.
- Shortened Duration: The total test time is reduced to 2 hours and 14 minutes.
- Faster Score Reporting: Scores will be available within days instead of weeks.
- Digital Tools: Integrated tools like the Desmos graphing calculator and a countdown timer.
Example Tables
To make the content more reader-friendly, here are some example tables:
Reading and Writing Section Breakdown
| Module | Number of Questions | Time Allotted | Key Content Areas |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 27 | 32 minutes | Grammar, Punctuation, Reading Comprehension |
| 2 | 27 | 32 minutes | Writing and Language, Grammar |
Math Section Breakdown
| Module | Number of Questions | Time Allotted | Key Content Areas |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 22 | 35 minutes | Algebra, Advanced Math |
| 2 | 22 | 35 minutes | Problem Solving and Data Analysis, Geometry, Trigonometry |
Preparing for the Digital Scholastic Assessment Test
To excel in the Digital SAT, familiarize yourself with the new format and practice using the digital tools provided. Utilize free resources from the College Board and consider adaptive practice tests to simulate the actual exam experience.
For further information and more preparation tips, visit trusted resources like PrepScholar , the College Board.