Digital SAT Format

So I heard that they're offering the SAT in a digital format now and I found that pretty interesting. Does anyone know if this version of the test is easier or maybe even harder? Or is it more of a comfort/preference thing? Really want to make an informed decision, so any thoughts are welcome!

Absolutely, it's a good question. The College Board introduced the digital version of the SAT in spring 2024, leaning into the shift toward more digital learning and testing formats. In terms of difficulty, it's designed to be neither easier nor harder than the paper version, which no longer exists.

The content, question types, and time per question remain the same, maintaining the test's main goal of evaluating college readiness. For instance, Reading and Writing have two 32-minute modules for 54 questions, and Math has two 35-minute modules for 44 questions.

However, the digital shift can influence some students' experiences. For some, the shift from pencil and paper to computer might initially feel awkward, especially if they're more accustomed to the old format. Techniques like underlining text in reading passages or doing math calculations on the side of the problem have to be adjusted for the test's digital format, which could impact how students interact with the test questions.

On the other hand, digital testing can offer conveniences. The test structure is easier to navigate, there's a built-in calculator for all math questions, and score reporting is faster. Auto-timing features could also take some of the pressure off students since they don't need to regularly check a separate timer.

Before you decide, it could be helpful to take advantage of any available online practice tests - the College Board’s Bluebook™ app has a digital preview and a full-length practice test, for instance. This can help you get a feel for the test format and see how comfortable you are with it.

In conclusion, it's not so much about the test being easier or harder in its digital format, but more about a student's comfort and familiarity with digital testing. With the right preparation, you should be able to navigate this new landscape efficiently.

And remember, while your SAT score is an important factor in your college application, it's not the sole determinant of your admission prospects. Your academic performance, essays, recommendations, and extracurricular involvement all play crucial roles in the admission decision. Good luck with your preparation!