The Digital SAT, explained

The format

The SAT is taken on a laptop or tablet using the College Board's Bluebook app. The test has two sections, Reading and Writing, then Math, with a 10-minute break between them. Total testing time is about 2 hours and 14 minutes.

• Reading and Writing: 54 questions in 64 minutes, split into two modules.
• Math: 44 questions in 70 minutes, split into two modules.
• Scores range from 400 to 1600, with each section scored from 200 to 800.

How adaptive testing works

Each section is section-adaptive. Every student gets a first module with a mix of easier and harder questions. Performance on that module determines whether the second module is easier or harder. A strong first module opens the door to the highest scores, so accuracy early in each section matters.

Reading and Writing

Every question is paired with a short passage, usually a paragraph, rather than long reading passages. Questions fall into four areas:

• Information and Ideas: main ideas, evidence, and inferences.
• Craft and Structure: vocabulary in context, text structure, and purpose.
• Expression of Ideas: transitions and rhetorical synthesis.
• Standard English Conventions: grammar, usage, and punctuation.

Math

A calculator is allowed on the entire Math section, and Bluebook includes a built-in Desmos graphing calculator. Most questions are multiple choice; the rest are student-produced responses. A reference sheet of common formulas is available.

• Algebra
• Advanced Math, including quadratic, exponential, and polynomial functions
• Problem-Solving and Data Analysis
• Geometry and Trigonometry

Planning your test dates

Most students take the SAT for the first time in the spring of junior year, leaving time for a second attempt. Many colleges consider a student's highest scores, but policies vary, so check each college's requirements. Confirm current test dates and registration on the College Board website.