SAT Overview

Test Structure

The SAT consists of a Reading and Writing section and a Math section, each composed of 2 modules (4 modules in total). The test proceeds in the following order:

Scoring

The final score of the SAT is calculated by adding the scores from the Reading and Writing section (out of 800 points) and the Math section (also out of 800 points) for a total maximum score of 1600 points. Since the SAT does not penalize for incorrect answers, it's always better to answer every question.

Reading and Writing Section

• Composed of 2 modules, each containing 27 questions to be answered within 32 minutes.
• Four-option multiple-choice questions only
• 11 question types distributed across 4 content domains

Source: The SAT Suite of Assessments Specifications Overview (College Board)

• The question types appear in order, from ① Words in Context to ⑪ Rhetorical Synthesis.
  

  - Questions on ⑤ Command of Textual Evidence and ⑥ Command of Quantitative Evidence can appear in an alternating order.

  - Questions on ⑧ Boundaries and ⑨ Form, Structure, and Sense can appear in an alternating order.

• Within the same question type, the questions are arranged from easiest to hardest.

Math Section

• Composed of 2 modules, each containing 22 questions to be answered within 35 minutes.
• Four-option multiple-choice (~75%) + Student-produced response (~25%)
• Various question types distributed across 4 content domains

Source: The SAT Suite of Assessments Specifications Overview (College Board)

• The types of questions appear randomly, with the number of questions for each type roughly matching the distribution.
• The questions are arranged from easiest to hardest.
• A built-in graphing calculator is available throughout the entire Math section (Students can also bring their own approved calculator).

Adaptive Testing

In the SAT, the difficulty of the second module in each section is determined by the results of the first module. If you score high in the first module, you will be given a more difficult second module. Conversely, if you score low in the first module, you will be given an easier second module. Keep in mind that if you receive an easier second module, the maximum achievable score will be lower.

※ The diagram above is for illustrative purpose only.