The SAT is completely digital. Traditional paper-and-pencil examinations have been consigned to history, replaced by digital testing formats.
The digital mode not only tests students' mathematical skills, but also fully enhances the exam experience.
In this article, we will highlight the following points: differences between paper and digital versions, distribution of exam content, and preparation methods.
➤Paper SAT vs. Digital SAT
Paper SAT exam | Digital SAT test | |
Format | Traditional pen and paper method | Digitization (computer-based answering) |
Question type | Multiple choice questions and fill-in-the-blank questions | Multiple choice questions and fill-in-the-blank questions |
Question sorting | Fixed and unified sorting | Irregular, easy to adjust to suit candidates |
calculator | Only section 4 can be used | Allowed in all sections |
calculation paper | A4 white paper | A4 white paper and digital drawing tablet |
Answering method | Circle and fill in the blanks on the answer sheet | Click options and fill in the blanks on the computer |
Exam time & number of questions | Section 3: 25 minutes & 20 questions (5 minutes break) Section 4: 55 minutes & 38 questions Total: 1 hour 20 minutes & 58 questions |
Module 3: 35 minutes & 22 questions (no breaks) Module 4: 35 minutes & 22 questions Total: 1 hour 10 minutes & 44 questions |
live score | No official email notification of instant score (after 14 days) | Instant unofficial score email official notification (14 days later) |
It is worth emphasizing that the digital SAT test is more "candidate-friendly", including providing access to digital computers, providing real-time unofficial scores, and a more interactive user interface.
However, candidates need to be familiar with the digital test, and the format of the questions may be different from the traditional paper version.
➤Examination content distribution
Examination Content | Content description | Content details | distributed |
algebra | Ability to calculate linear equations, inequalities, and equation sets | Single variable linear equation Linear Equations in Two Variables linear equation System of linear equations in two variables Linear inequality |
About 35%(13-15 questions) |
further mathematics | Ability to calculate absolute values, parabolas, exponents, polynomials, rational numbers, root trees, and nonlinear equations | Equality equation Single variable nonlinear equations, double variable equations nonlinear equation |
About 35%(13-15 questions) |
Debate and data analysis | Ability to calculate proportions, rates, proportions, and units; have the ability to analyze and interpret single-variable and double-variable data. | Proportion, rate, direct proportion, unit Probability Univariate data: data distribution and data analysis Bivariate data: data distribution, scatter plot Probability Error value calculation Evaluating Data Analysis: Observational Studies and Experiments |
About 15% (5-7 questions) |
Geometry and Trigonometric Functions | Ability to calculate volumes, areas, angles, triangles, trigonometric functions, and circular shapes | area, volume Lines, angles, triangles Right triangle, trigonometric functions round |
About 15% (5-7 questions) |
source: "The Digital SAT® Suite of Assessments Specifications Overview"
Note: Complex numbers will not be included in any Digital SAT exam.
➤Three major adjustments made by the College Board:
- The questions are designed to be more realistic, and students are expected to use multi-steps to solve problems, so that students can also use mathematical logic when encountering daily problems.
- The digital SAT emphasizes the proportion of algebra and reduces the proportion of geometry questions.
- The number of words in the questions has been increased, hoping that candidates can find the key words in the complicated questions and answer them.
➤On the way to 800 points
While SAT Math isn't the most challenging section of the entire test, it does require some practice and precision.
Even small mistakes or uncertain guesses can result in serious loss of points (10 to 20 points).
To reduce this risk, we will introduce a three-step preparation strategy (Review → Practice Test → Revision).
➤Step 1: Review
When browsing the Content Area Distribution table, it is normal to find that you have forgotten or are unsure about certain concepts.
Since the SAT Math tests 8th, 9th, and 10th grade math, answers to these forgotten concepts can often be found in previous textbooks.
Take them out and start reviewing them to enhance your understanding and impression. This will get you a score of 680 or higher on the SAT Math.
➤Step 2: Mock test
After thoroughly reviewing the content, it is highly recommended that you practice through practice exams, either online or through paper review (Princeton/Barron's).
Taking practice tests serves two purposes: to deepen your understanding of the subject matter and to develop test preparation/exam habits. Solid preparation will improve your exam time control and expose you to variations in various questions.
AEI also offersOnline mock test, so that students can get the most realistic and similar test questions and experience before the exam.
➤Step 3: Correction
Embrace imperfections because they often contain the secret to success. Mistakes are inevitable on the road to success. Revision enables you to better understand each mathematical concept.
In addition, after completing the revision, we hope that you can change the numbers in the questions you missed and answer them again to improve your problem-solving ability and control of the questions.
➤Final reminder:
- Before and on the exam day, try to limit your use of social media software and YouTube to avoid excessive information intake, which may cause you to be frequently distracted during the exam.
- Get a good 8 to 10 hours of sleep the night before the exam. According to scientific research, teenagers who sleep 8 to 10 hours usually perform best on exams.
- Choose and solve five questions from the mock test. This will help your mind and stay focused.
- Enjoy the fruits of your hard work!
immediately with AEI Education course consultant contact, to learn more about your goals and the most suitable Digital SAT planning direction!