The SAT has a duration of three hours and comprises three assessments: (1) the Reading Test, (2) the Writing and Language Test, and (3) the Math Test. In comparison to the ACT, the SAT allows 43% additional time for each question.

MATHS SEXTION

The Math Test is designed to assess proficiency in key areas of mathematics crucial for success in both college and career endeavors. These include:

1.  Algebra: Emphasizing mastery in linear equations and systems.
2. Problem Solving and Data Analysis: Focused on developing quantitative literacy.
3. Advanced Math: Involving the manipulation of complex equations.

Additionally, the Math Test incorporates Additional Topics in Math, encompassing geometry and trigonometry pertinent to college and career readiness.

The test is structured into two segments: a no-calculator portion and a calculator portion. While the majority of questions in both sections are multiple choice, some at the end require written answers (referred to as “grid-ins”). Everyday formulas are provided for reference throughout the test.

Types of Math Tested

The math questions are divided into four categories, with algebra being the most important.

Verbal – Reading Section

The Reading Test of the SAT is composed of five reading passages, each followed by multiple-choice questions. Test-takers are allotted 65 minutes to complete this section, which encompasses a total of 52 questions.

Nature of Reading Test Passages: The five passages consist of four standalone passages and one pair of passages meant to be read together. Each passage or set ranges from 500 to 750 words. The content is drawn from diverse sources:

• A literary passage from a work of fiction.
• One or two passages from a U.S. founding document or a text in the Great Global Conversation, inspired by these documents. Examples include the U.S. Constitution or a speech by Nelson Mandela.
• A passage from a work in economics, psychology, sociology, or another social science.
• Two passages from scientific works exploring foundational concepts in Earth science, biology, chemistry, or physics.

Types of Reading Test Questions: The questions on the Reading Test fall into three main categories:

1. How the Author Uses Evidence:
   • Identify the passage’s segment supporting the author’s point.
   • Find evidence in a passage supporting the answer to a previous question.
   • Determine the relationship between an informational graphic and its paired passage.
2. Understanding Words in Context:
   • Identify word meanings based on context clues in the passage.
   • Analyze how the author’s word choice shapes meaning, style, and tone.
3. Analysis in History/Social Studies and in Science:
   • Apply reading skills relevant to history, social studies, and science.
   • Evaluate hypotheses, interpret data, and consider implications based on passage content.

Importantly, answers are derived solely from the passage content, without relying on prior subject knowledge.

Verbal – Writing Section

The Writing and Language Test, on the other hand, is a 35-minute multiple-choice test. It involves reading passages and identifying and correcting mistakes and weaknesses. This section comprises four passages, each ranging from 400 to 450 words, covering various topics like careers, science, humanities, and history.

Types of Writing and Language Test Questions:

Each passage has 11 multiple-choice questions, falling into two main types:

1. Expression of Ideas:
   • Development questions focus on main ideas, supporting details, focus, and quantitative information.
   • Organization questions address logical sequence, placement of information, introductions, conclusions, and transitions.
   • Effective Language Use questions aim to enhance precision, eliminate wordiness, consider style and tone, and combine sentences for improved flow and rhetorical effects.
2. Standard English Conventions:
   • Recognize and correct grammar, usage, and mechanics problems.
   • Correct errors in sentence structure, usage, and punctuation.

This section assesses the ability to improve the substance and quality of a writer’s message, along with proficiency in recognizing and correcting English language conventions.