A Simple Guide to Understand the SAT Exam Pattern

Any student who wishes to do his/her undergraduation in the US or other foreign countries needs to give either the SAT or the ACT. The SAT scores play a major role in securing admissions into universities for doing their Bachelor’s. The SAT exam consists of Evidence-Based Reading and Writing and Math sections.                

The first step towards the SAT prep is to know the structure and the content of the test. The SAT Verbal or the Evidence-Based Reading and Writing comprises the Reading and Writing and Language sections. The SAT Math section comprises the No Calculator (you are not allowed to use a calculator in this section) and the Calculator (you may use a calculator in this section) sections. Both sections have multiple choice questions and grid in type questions. The Verbal and the Math sections are scored on a 200-800 scale individually. The total score ranges from 400 - 1600.

The  SAT exam pattern is as follows:

 

Section	# of questions	Time allotted	Scores
Reading	52  5 passages	65 minutes	200 - 800
Writing and Language	44 4 passages	35 minutes
No -Calculator	20, 15 MCQ, 5 Grid in	25 minutes	200 - 800
Calculator	38 30 MCQ,8 Grid in	55 minutes

 

There is an optional essay section for 50 minutes. This section tests on the Reading, Analysis, and Writing skills and is scored on 2-8 points in all these sections.

The SAT exam syllabus is as follows:

1. Reading

The reading section has 5 passages, one from US/World literature, two from social studies/ history, and two from science passages. One of the passages will be a dual passage as there will be two short passages instead of one long passage. Two of the passages will contain information in the form of charts or graphs. The initial few questions will be general talking about the entire passage while the remaining questions will be specific.

2. Writing and Language

The questions on this section focus on Grammar, Punctuation, structure and usage. The passages can be from Humanities, Science, Social studies, and Careers.

3. Math section

Both the sections on Math, test on the following areas:

• Heart of Algebra - Linear equations, graphs, inequalities, and functions are tested under this topic.
• Passport to Advanced Math - These questions deal with non-linear equations. The topics include quadratic expressions, word problems, polynomials, and exponents.
• Problem Solving and Data Analysis - Ratio, units, percentages, rates, and data from charts and graphs are the topics tested under this section.

How to prepare for the test

1.     In the Reading section, learn how to tackle the different question types.

2.     Learn the grammar and punctuation rules tested on the SAT.

3.     On Math, learn the relevant concepts.

4.     Use your calculator wisely.

5.     Learn ways to manage time.

 

Your SAT preparation can involve self-preparation or SAT training. The books can supplement your preparation but professional help in the SAT preparation could prove more fruitful. Also, be careful while choosing the SAT online coaching classes that teach you the right strategies and techniques to achieve your goal.