I'm getting ready to take the SAT, but I'm still a little confused about how the scoring works. Can anybody break down the maximum SAT scores and how they're determined?
Of course! I'm happy to provide an overview of the SAT scoring system. The SAT consists of two sections: Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW) and Math. Each section has a score range of 200-800, resulting in a total SAT score range of 400-1600. Here's a further breakdown:
1. Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW): This section is divided into two tests—Reading and Writing & Language. Both tests consist of multiple-choice questions. The Reading Test focuses on your ability to understand and analyze passages, while the Writing & Language Test evaluates grammar and editing skills. Both tests have a combined score range of 200-800.
2. Math: The Math section is divided into two parts—Calculator and No Calculator. As you might guess, you're allowed to use a calculator for one part but not for the other. The Calculator section has 38 questions, whereas the No Calculator section has 20 questions. Together, they also have a score range of 200-800.
Raw scores for each test (Reading, Writing & Language, and Math) are calculated by counting the number of questions you answered correctly, with no penalties for incorrect answers. To derive section scores, the raw scores are then converted into scaled scores using a process called equating. Equating accounts for slight variations in difficulty across different test forms, ensuring that scores are comparable regardless of which test form you take.
Your total SAT score is simply the sum of your EBRW and Math section scores, which falls within the range of 400-1600.
In addition to the scores mentioned above, SAT score reports also include subscores and cross-test scores to provide more insight into your performance. Subscores (ranging from 1-15) are provided for specific skills within each section, and cross-test scores (also ranging from 1-15) reflect your performance on questions that span across both EBRW and Math sections, but are related to specific themes like Analysis in Science or Analysis in History/Social Studies.
I hope that clears up any confusion you had about the SAT scoring system! Good luck with your test preparations!
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