Hey guys, just starting to prep for the SAT and feeling a bit overwhelmed. Could someone give me a rundown of the overall structure of the SAT? Like, how many sections are there, what types of questions are in each, and any timing tips for each section? Understanding the format better might help me strategize my study sessions better. Thanks!
Hey there! Understanding the SAT structure is a great first step in your preparation. There are four sections on the SAT: Reading, Writing and Language, Math (No Calculator), and Math (Calculator).
The Reading section has 52 questions and gives you 65 minutes. It consists of passages followed by multiple-choice questions. The Writing and Language section has 44 questions, lasts 35 minutes, and asks you to improve passages for clarity, grammar, and word choice.
For Math, you'll have two sections: one where you can't use a calculator, with 20 questions in 25 minutes, and one with a calculator, with 38 questions in 55 minutes. The Math sections will test a range of math practices, with more algebra questions than anything else.
As for timing tips, for Reading, try to spend about 12-13 minutes per passage. In the Writing section, aim for about 9 minutes for each of the four passages. For Math, if you're stronger in algebra, you might move more quickly through those questions, so plan your time accordingly. A typical suggestion is to spend no more than 1 minute per math question without a calculator, and a little over 1 minute per question with the calculator.
Remember, each section is scored on a scale from 200 to 800, with Reading and Writing combined for one score, and Math for the other, totaling a perfect score of 1600. Good luck with your prep!
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