Digital SAT Mathematics Introduction and Strategies

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:

  1. 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.
  2. The digital SAT emphasizes the proportion of algebra and reduces the proportion of geometry questions.
  3. 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!