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Even though some colleges and universities have gone test-optional, it is still an excellent idea to prepare for and take the SAT. This will keep all your options open for choosing and applying to any college you might wish to attend. Additionally, since many scholarships require submission of an SAT score as part of the application package, having a great score can give you a competitive advantage! Because most high school students taking the SAT have many demands on their time, they often don’t know how to study for the digital SAT with a demanding schedule.
This article will provide some facts about the digital SAT and how to study for the new SAT. Furthermore, we’ll include tips about how to get the best out of your limited time when studying for the SAT so that you will be ready on exam day to earn a great score!
Here are the topics we’ll cover:
- Key Info About the Digital SAT
- The Topics Tested on the SAT
- Beginning Your SAT Studying
- Make Study Time Count
- Tip #1: Make SAT Studying a Priority
- Tip #2: Be Realistic About Your SAT Preparation Timeline
- Tip #3: Create a Study Schedule That Works for You
- Tip #4: Break Up Your Study Sessions
- Tip #5: Put Your Weekends to Good Use
- Tip #6: Study on the Bus
- Tip #7: Study During Study Hall
- Tip #8: Temporarily Postpone Non-Essential Activities
- Tip #9: Memorization Is Mandatory
- Tip #10: Use Topical Studying
- In Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What’s Next?
Let’s get started with some key facts about the test.
Key Info About the Digital SAT
In the U.S., the paper-and-pencil version of the SAT was replaced by the digital SAT in Spring 2024. Good news: the digital version is shorter than its predecessor, at just 2 hours and 14 minutes, compared to 3 hours and 15 minutes.
You can take the SAT at school or at a test center. You may use your own computer, one provided by your school, or you may borrow one from the College Board. Furthermore, if you use your own computer, be sure to download the Bluebook app, which is the platform used for the administration of the SAT, ahead of time. When you are taking the SAT, all other features of the computer you’re using will be locked down for the duration of the exam.
The SAT underwent additional major changes when it became digital:
- The Verbal portion of the exam changed.
- The Math section now allows unlimited use of a calculator.
- The SAT is now computer-adaptive.
Now, let’s look at the key components of the SAT in more detail.
The Math and Verbal Sections of the SAT
The digital SAT contains two main sections:
- Math: There are 2 math modules, each with 22 questions and taking 35 minutes to complete. Multiple-choice questions with 4 answer choices comprise about 33 of the 44 math questions. The remaining 11 questions are fill-in-the-blank questions referred to as “student-produced response” questions. Additionally, you may use an approved calculator for any question on either math module, and you have the option of using the online Desmos graphing calculator.
- Reading and Writing: There are 2 modules for this section, each containing 27 questions, with 32 minutes to answer them. Notably, Reading Comprehension passages are shorter than on the old SAT, and each passage asks just one question. The combined Reading and Writing section will also ask you questions on grammar, punctuation, and usage.
KEY FACT:
The Math section poses 44 questions in two modules, and you are given 70 minutes to complete both modules. The Reading and Writing section poses 54 questions in two modules, and you are given 64 minutes to complete both modules.
Next, let’s discuss the section-adaptivity of the digital SAT.
The SAT Is Section-Adaptive. What’s That?
A new feature of the SAT is that it is section-adaptive. Let’s use the math section to illustrate how it works. First, if you do well on the first Math module, then you will be presented with more difficult questions in the second module. If answered correctly, these more difficult questions will score you more points. The Reading and Writing section is also section adaptive. Thus, it is important to score well on the first module (approximately 60% or better). As stated above, this will give you the opportunity to answer score-enhancing harder questions in module 2.
Because the SAT is section-adaptive, you want to make sure that you are “on point” from the very first question. Notably, your early success in module 1 of each section will play an important role in determining your overall SAT score!
KEY FACT:
The section-adaptive testing of the SAT bases the difficulty level of the second module of each section on your performance on the first module.
Let’s now discuss the topics you can expect to see on the digital SAT.
The Topics Tested on the SAT
Math
The math topics covered on the SAT are similar to those you’ve studied in your high school math classes. However, the types of questions or the wording of the questions may be a bit different from what you have encountered on your high school math tests, but you will see the same math problem-solving concepts. The College Board has identified 4 main Math topic areas that are tested. We have added subtopics to those 4 main topics:
- Algebra: linear equations, linear functions, systems of linear equations, linear inequalities, linear word problems,
- Advanced Math: functions, function notation, quadratic functions (parabolas), factoring and FOILing, polynomials (higher-order), exponents, radical equations, absolute value, exponential functions, exponential growth and linear growth, systems of equations (quadratic)
- Problem-Solving and Data Analysis: percentages, ratios and proportions, rates, unit conversion, charts and graphs, mean, median, mode, probability, scatterplots, statistical inference, experiments and observational studies
- Geometry/Trigonometry: lines, angles, triangles, circles, area, volume, Pythagorean theorem, right triangles, trigonometry
KEY FACT:
There are 4 College Board SAT math categories: Algebra, Advanced Math, Problem-Solving and Data Analysis, and Geometry/Trigonometry.
Verbal
The Reading topics of the Reading and Writing section include:
- Craft and Structure: general or specific purpose of a passage, structure of a passage, words in context, and paired passage questions
- Information and Ideas: main idea, detail, inference, textual or quantitative evidence
The Writing part of the Reading and Writing section asks questions dealing with the following:
- Standard English Convention: subject-verb agreement, pronoun-antecedent agreement, plural and possessive nouns, verb forms, modifier placement, punctuation, sentence structure
- Expression of Ideas: transitions, rhetorical synthesis
KEY FACT:
The Reading and Writing section tests you on analyzing passages and identifying proper grammar and usage.
Next, let’s discuss how to get started with your SAT prep.
Beginning Your SAT Studying
Now that you know the facts about the digital SAT, including its structure and the topics tested, you can begin to get serious about your preparation. First, note that it is not a good idea to buy one of the SAT study guides and start answering random questions! This is a waste of time, energy, and money. Instead, you want to take a logical approach to getting the most out of your limited time available.
Take a Practice Test
First, to establish your baseline SAT score, you will need to take an official SAT practice test. By taking a practice test, you’ll be able to determine your present level of SAT knowledge. Next, compare your practice test results to the SAT score needed for admission to your college(s) of interest. Then you’ll know your score improvement needed and be able to gauge the amount of time and effort needed for your prep.
Take an official practice test. First, register for an account at the College Board resources website. Then download their free Bluebook app. You will find that there are 4 free practice tests, so take the first one. Don’t be worried about your score; you’re just getting a basic idea of how much you’ll need to study to get the score you want.
TTP PRO TIP:
Take an SAT practice exam to determine your baseline score.
Select High-Quality Study Resources
We’ve already said that buying an SAT study guide and answering random questions is definitely not one of the best test strategies! But what to do? What’s the best way to study for the SAT, especially with so many other demands from school, work, athletics, family, and friends?
Generally speaking, there are many ways to study effectively. You need to decide which one(s) works for you. The good news is that you have many choices, from self-study to using great online resources. Now, let’s look at several of them.
TTP PRO TIP:
Consider the many study options before you start your SAT preparation.
Consider an In-Person or Online Prep Class
An in-person or online prep class may be your go-to option, especially if you need a lot of structure for your studying. First, a class has pre-set dates and times for meetings. Additionally, you will be in class with other students with the same goal. Plus, you’ll have assigned homework, so you’ll be held accountable for completing it and keeping up with the course coverage.
A major drawback of an SAT class is that you have no flexibility about class meeting times. Additionally, the class will not be able to speed up or slow down based on your knowledge or skills. So, you should keep all this in mind when considering a prep class.
KEY FACT:
An SAT prep class will keep you organized and on track with your studying, but it will not be able to meet your unique needs.
Hire a Private Tutor
Hiring a private tutor may be the perfect way to study for the SAT. Most importantly, your tutor will design each study session around your exact needs. Thus, you can speed up or slow down according to your abilities. Furthermore, you’ll be able to reschedule a session if you have a scheduling conflict. Your tutor will keep you on track and will hold you accountable for making progress. However, private tutoring is expensive.
KEY FACT:
A private tutor, while expensive, can personalize your SAT prep to your specific needs.
Create or Join a Study Group with Friends
If you have friends who are also taking the SAT, consider forming an SAT study group. First, find a few friends with similar goals and skills as you. Then determine a meeting schedule that you all agree upon, and get started! As long as the study group focuses on studying more than socializing, you’ll all benefit from working together on a common goal.
TTP PRO TIP:
You can combine studying with socializing by forming an SAT study group with some friends.
Consider an Online SAT Prep Course
It’s likely that an online SAT prep course will fit your study needs. Generally, SAT experts create prep courses containing the exact material that is tested on the SAT. Furthermore, they give you lots of practice questions so you can hone your skills. Additionally, most of these courses have lots of useful bells and whistles: a comprehensive study plan, a progress tracker, and valuable analytics. Many of them supply you with equation guides and flashcards and teach you valuable test strategies.
First, research online SAT prep courses, and try a few free trials. Then select the course that is the best fit for you. The Target Test Prep SAT Course offers a free 5-day trial. Also, all online SAT courses offer 24/7 access, and this is an attractive option for students who want flexibility in their studying.
TTP PRO TIP:
An online SAT prep course might meet all your SAT study needs. By and large, it offers many useful features that can make for an efficient, effective study experience.
Next, let’s discuss how to make the most of your study time.
Make Study Time Count
You have all the background work done. You have the facts about the digital SAT, you know what’s tested, you’ve completed a practice test, and you have chosen a primary study method. Now it’s time to put the rubber to the road and get to work! These 10 SAT tips and tricks will help you immensely.
Tip #1: Make SAT Studying a Priority
We’re all busy! Nevertheless, you need to commit to putting in a decent number of study hours. Thus, you need to make SAT studying a priority.
To get organized, you’ll need to make a study calendar. First, map out your school schedule, extracurricular activities, job commitments, and other fixed demands on your time. Then, fill in the days and times that you can devote to studying. We recommend that you schedule at least an hour every day, but you have to make your schedule work for you!
TTP PRO TIP:
Create a study schedule that works for you.
Tip #2: Be Realistic About Your SAT Preparation Timeline
Be accurate in estimating how much time you’ll need to prepare for the SAT. Thus, you should determine your college admissions application deadlines and work backward to determine when you should schedule your SAT. Then you’ll have a good idea of when you should start your SAT prep. You can get more tips about how long you should study by checking out our article on how long to study for the SAT.
TTP PRO TIP:
Give yourself plenty of time to study for the SAT.
Tip #3: Create a Study Schedule that Works for You
When it comes to studying, you have to balance school, sports, work, homework, family and community commitments, and time with friends. As a result, your study schedule must work specifically for you. Most importantly, use good time management to create a doable one.
Your study schedule should specify the times you’ll study each day. Can you wake up early to study for an hour? Can you study during study hall? Or is it easier to study right after you get home from school? Or will you want to do the bulk of your studying on the weekend? In fact, the decision is yours.
Let’s look at what a sample weekly study schedule could look like:
- Monday: 4-5 pm: study 1 hour
- Tuesday: Study hall: study 45 minutes
- Wednesday: 4-5 pm: study 1 hour
- Thursday: Study hall: study 45 minutes
- Friday: 6-6:30 am: study 30 minutes
- Saturday: 8:30-10 am: study 1.5 hours
- Sunday: 8-9 pm: study 1 hour
You can schedule your SAT studying at various times throughout the week without making it a constant time or energy drain. Most importantly, make a study schedule that fits your lifestyle to find the time to get in your SAT prep. In this example, we were able to fit in 6.5 hours in a week with minimal disruption. Also, you could add an extra hour to each weekend day to increase the time to 8.5 hours.
TTP PRO TIP:
Your SAT study schedule has to work for you.
Tip #4: Break Up Your Study Sessions
Finding enough time for SAT study might sometimes be difficult. Thus, you might consider occasionally breaking up your studying into shorter, more manageable study sessions. Notably, having shorter sessions will help you retain your focus and keep your forward progress, even on tough days. So, even if you have just 20 to 30 minutes to study on a particular day, use those minutes and catch up later. Even short study sessions can be beneficial!
TTP PRO TIP:
Make every minute of study time count, even if it’s just 20-30 minutes.
Tip #5: Put Your Weekends to Good Use
Try to do longer study sessions on Saturday and Sunday. For example, if there are certain weekend days when you have a bit of free time, do a couple of long sessions (2-3 hours). This type of study session has two benefits. First, you get a lot of studying done. But more importantly, you are also practicing being focused for a couple of hours, similar to the time you’ll need to focus during the actual exam.
TTP PRO TIP:
Consider studying longer sessions on weekend days.
Take SAT Practice Tests on Weekends
After you finish the “learning phase” of your SAT preparation, you’ll want to take the remaining 3 free practice exams on Bluebook. Because a practice exam is mentally demanding and takes several hours, you should take it on the weekend. Consequently, you’ll have time to take the practice test in one sitting, and you’ll be more relaxed than if you were to take it during the week. As a result, your score will be more accurate, giving you usable feedback about how close you are to your target SAT score. Also, you’ll have time to review the questions you missed.
TTP PRO TIP:
Use the weekend to take the remaining 3 SAT practice exams.
Tip #6: Study on the Bus
You can get additional SAT study time if you’re a passenger in a car or on the bus on your way to school. Pull out your SAT flashcards and fit in some study time.
Of course, if you are driving, don’t look at flashcards! The good news, though, is that you can still study during your commute. For example, you can use an app that turns visual flashcards into audio ones. Audio flashcards are perfect for when you’re driving, walking, or doing chores.
TTP PRO TIP:
Review your flashcards during your commute to and from school.
Tip #7: Study During Study Hall
Free periods at school can provide some time to get some SAT studying. You might usually spend free periods doing homework or socializing with friends, but you might be able to use that time for your SAT prep. With this in mind, you might need to use a bit of self-discipline to go to the library or sit by yourself to avoid distractions. If you can do that with even a couple of study hall periods each week, you will put a nice dent in your SAT study schedule.
TTP PRO TIP:
Study hall may provide you with some time for SAT studying.
Tip #8: Temporarily Postpone Non-Essential Activities
To successfully prepare for the SAT, you likely will need to reduce the number of “non-essential” activities in your life. To do this, first list everything that you do that takes time. Next, put the activities in order, from least important to most important. Finally, pause the least important activities, remembering that you’re only postponing them, not eliminating them from your life forever. Doing so will give you more time for SAT preparation!
TTP PRO TIP:
Temporarily postpone any non-essential activities in your schedule, and dedicate the time saved to your SAT preparation.
Tip #9: Memorization Is Mandatory
The digital SAT gives you access to a math formula sheet, which is useful but limited in scope. It gives you geometry formulas for area and volume for several shapes, along with the Pythagorean formula and the sides and angles of special right triangles. However, it doesn’t give you any other important formulas, such as the difference of squares or the quadratic formula. Thus, you’ll need to memorize a large number of formulas to be successful in the Math section of the SAT. A great way to memorize these formulas is to use flashcards.
There are two main options for making flashcards. You can create the cards manually, or you can use an app. Additionally, don’t limit your flashcards to math formulas. You can make a flashcard for any grammar or punctuation rules that you need to remember, too.
TTP PRO TIP:
Create a flashcard deck to help you memorize key concepts and formulas.
Tip #10: Use Topical Studying
Test prep experts agree that the best way to learn SAT material is by using topical studying. You focus all your time and attention on just one topic at a time until you have mastered it.
For example, when you are studying percents, you will learn about percents concepts, such as percent of, percent increase, percent greater than, and percent less than. Next, after you learn the concepts, you’ll answer lots of practice questions that are easy, medium, and hard. Then, before moving to the next topic, you will be comfortable with any percents question that the SAT could throw at you.
TTP PRO TIP:
Use topical studying to ensure mastery of each SAT concept.
In Summary
In this article, we have covered details about the digital SAT, including a detailed list of the topics on both the Math and Verbal sections of the exam. Additionally, we’ve also given tips on how to prepare for the SAT.
Your SAT preparation requires some initial steps. First, take a practice test to establish a baseline score. Next, explore the options for studying, such as taking an SAT prep class, hiring a tutor, creating a study group, or enrolling in an online SAT self-study course. Make the best decision that fits your particular needs.
Once you put your study plan into action, follow these tips for studying for the SAT to get the most out of your study time.
- Make SAT Studying a Priority
- Be Realistic About Your SAT Preparation Timeline
- Create a Study Schedule that Works for You
- Break Up Your Study Sessions
- Put Your Weekends to Good Use
- Take SAT Practice Tests on Weekends
- Study on the Bus
- Study During Study Hall
- Temporarily Postpone Non-Essential Activities
- Memorization Is Mandatory
- Use Topical Studying
If you follow these tips, your SAT preparation will be positive and successful!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How is the digital SAT structured?
There are 2 sections on the SAT: (1) Math and (2) Reading and Writing. The Math section poses 44 questions in two modules, and you are given 70 minutes to complete both modules. The Reading and Writing section poses 54 questions in two modules, and you are given 64 minutes to complete both modules.
How many questions in the digital SAT Math section?
The Math section presents a total of 44 questions.
Do you need to study for the SAT?
If you want to get a great score, it is necessary to study for the SAT. Notably, the amount of time and effort needed is largely dependent on your background and on your performance on a practice test, which is used to determine your baseline score.
Is studying for the SAT daily good?
Daily studying is highly recommended. Once you’ve learned and practiced new material, you may tend to forget some of it if you don’t reinforce your learning. Thus, daily study will keep your forward momentum going and will keep you motivated.
What’s Next?
Don’t let distractions and conflicting priorities hamper your SAT studying. Read this article, which presents some no-fail ways to stay motivated during your SAT preparation.
You can get some good digital SAT math strategies by reading our article about improving your SAT Math score.
Our article about the digital SAT Reading and Writing Section can answer many of your questions about how to improve digital SAT reading and how to obtain some digital SAT reading tips.
Happy Studying!
