How to Prepare for the New Digital SAT: Expert Tips and Strategies
Preparing for the new digital SAT can feel overwhelming, but you can set yourself up for success with the right strategies.
Start early and create a study plan that fits into your schedule.
Whether you’re a U.S. or international student, taking a full-length practice test in the Bluebook app will help you identify areas to focus on.
You should use resources like the Official Digital SAT Prep on Khan Academy® to get free, high-quality practice materials.
Pay attention in your high school classes, as they cover much of the content you’ll see on the SAT.
Many colleges, even those that are test-optional, still consider SAT scores, so it’s a valuable step for your academic and career goals.
Remember to download and install the Bluebook app well ahead of your test date.
This tool not only offers practice tests but also helps you feel comfortable with the digital format.
Maintaining a steady study routine can boost your confidence and enhance your chances of achieving a score that stands out to colleges.
Format Of The Digital SAT
The digital SAT features significant changes in both the Reading and Writing section and the Math section.
The test is taken on a tablet or laptop and is shorter than its predecessor, making preparation crucial.
Reading And Writing
The Reading and Writing section of the digital SAT combines what used to be separate sections.
You will have two modules, each lasting 32 minutes and consisting of 27 questions.
In these sections, you will encounter shorter reading passages followed by one or two questions.
This format aims to reduce fatigue and help you maintain focus.
The passages cover a wide range of topics, requiring you to analyze texts and understand various writing styles.
Math
The Math section has also undergone some changes. You will now be allowed to use a calculator for the entire section.
This means you can focus more on solving the problems rather than doing calculations by hand.
The math section still covers essential topics such as algebra, but the digital format allows for a quicker and more efficient testing process.
The digital SAT math section is shorter, which means you must manage your time wisely.
Make sure you practice using the calculator effectively and familiarize yourself with the types of questions to expect.
Adaptive Second Module
A key feature of the new digital SAT is its adaptive testing format.
The test adjusts its difficulty level based on your performance in the first module.
This means that if you perform well in the initial set of questions, the following module will present you with more challenging questions.
The adaptive format helps to provide a more accurate measure of your abilities.
It’s important to stay focused during the first module as it can significantly impact the questions you receive later on.
This adaptive nature of the test can make your preparation more complex, so consider using practice tests that simulate this adaptive feature.
By understanding these new changes, you can better prepare for the digital SAT and approach each section with confidence.
Steps To Prepare For The New Digital SAT
Preparing for the new Digital SAT involves focusing on several key steps that will help you succeed.
You need to practice, identify weaknesses, focus on improving, and review your progress continuously.
Take A Practice Test
Start by taking a full-length practice test. This will help you to get familiar with the test format and timing.
Make sure to simulate the test day environment: find a quiet place, time yourself, and use only permitted resources.
Practice tests are essential because they show you where you currently stand.
Use a practice exam from a reliable source, such as an official digital SAT prep on Khan Academy.
Remember, the more realistic the practice, the better it will prepare you. Caddell Prep has a free Digital SAT practice test based on the actual one, and it includes a more helpful breakdown of strengths and weaknesses than Khan Academy,
Focus On Areas That Have The Biggest Room For Improvement
After reviewing your practice test results:
- Identify the sections where you scored lower.
- Create a study plan focusing on these areas.
- Break down the sections into smaller topics and tackle them one by one.
Use SAT study resources like Khan Academy’s free tools or other SAT prep materials.
Practice questions specific to your weak points and ensure you fully understand the concepts behind each question.
This targeted approach will help boost your SAT scores.
Take A Class
Consider enrolling in an SAT prep class. Classes provide structured learning and give you access to experienced instructors who can guide you through difficult topics.
A class will cover the syllabus comprehensively and ensure you stay on track with your studying.
Look for classes that fit your schedule. Whether they are held in-person or online, make sure the class covers the newest digital SAT format and offers practice exams tailored to this new format.
Class size matters also. A prep class like the one offered by Caddell Prep, which is capped at eight students, will impact your score more than a class with 30 students.
Work With A Tutor
Working with a tutor offers personalized attention that can address your specific needs.
A tutor can pinpoint your weaknesses and help develop strategies for improvement.
They can provide tips and tricks that are tailored to your learning style.
Search for a tutor with experience in the new digital SAT.
They should be familiar with the test’s unique challenges and able to provide targeted advice.
Personalized sessions with a tutor can make a significant difference in your preparation.
Test Again To Identify Progress And Weaknesses
After a period of studying, take another full-length practice test to assess your progress.
This will help you see where you’ve improved and where you still have room for growth.
Compare your new scores to your initial results to understand your progress.
Review your mistakes carefully. This will help you continue to refine your focus.
Use resources like the official digital SAT prep on Khan Academy to practice further.
By repeating this cycle of testing and reviewing, you’ll steadily improve your skills and confidence for the actual test day.
