Hey folks, hope everyone's keeping well. SAT scoring has me all mixed up. My basic understanding is that it's scored on a 1600-point scale, but that's about it. Would anyone be able to explain in simple terms please—how does the SAT scoring work?
Sure, happy to clarify that for you. SAT scoring can indeed be a bit confusing. As you mentioned, it's based on a 1600-point scale, divided between two sections: Math and Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW). Each section is worth up to 800 points, combining for the total maximum score of 1600.
Here's where it gets a little more complex. Each of these two sections is made up of several individual tests. The EBRW section includes a Reading Test and a Writing and Language test, while the Math section includes two modules. However, no matter the individual tests, the scores always add up to a final total score between 200 - 800 points per section.
Your raw score for each section (the total number of questions you got right) is converted into a scaled score using a process called equating. This process compensates for any slight variations in difficulty between different test versions, ensuring that a score of, say, 650 on one test reflects the same level of ability as a 650 on another test.
Beginning Spring 2024, the SAT has gone fully digital, but the scoring remains the same. The Reading and Writing section has two 32-minute modules with total 54 questions, and Math has two 35-minute modules with total 44 questions.
One more note: there isn't a penalty for guessing on the SAT. So if you're unsure about an answer, it's to your advantage to make your best guess rather than leaving the question blank.
I hope this clears things up for you, and best of luck with your SAT test preparation!
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