The SAT Reasoning Test, formerly known as the Scholastic Aptitude Test or Scholastic Assessment Test, has undergone some changes in recent years. The most recent version of the SAT, instituted in March 2005, now includes three sections – math, verbal and writing – for a total of 170 questions.
The writing section is new and includes a multiple choice section, as well as an essay-writing portion. Students receive 3 scores and each section is worth anywhere from 200 to 800 points, for a maximum score of 2400. The entire test runs 3 hours and 45 minutes in length and is offered 7 times a year in the United States.
It is recommended that students take their first SAT Reasoning Test in the spring of junior year. And while many students look forward to the nearly four hour test with angst and dread, it is just one of the measuring sticks utilized in the college admissions process. While your score certainly plays a significant role, it’s certainly not the only factor that is used to determine college acceptance. High school grades, GPAs, extracurricular activates, jobs, volunteer work, etc., all factor into the equation.
Studies show that students who read and write daily do better on the test than those who do not. Believe it or not, you can lay the foundation early by encouraging even your grade school children to read and write. Practice tests are another way to hone your SAT skills. SAT Prep Courses and Private Tutoring are also worth consideration. While nothing replaces hard work and lifelong reading, these courses/tutoring sessions can help students prepare for the SAT test by determining what areas of study need the most attention and then focusing on material specific to those topics. Tutoring also provides important test taking strategies and techniques that can help even the brightest of students increase their score.
For more information on SAT Preparation, visit our SAT page.