SAT Exam Syllabus
The SAT Syllabus primarily covers subjects that students have studied in school. SAT preparation becomes more manageable if you’ve excelled in these subjects during your academic years. Starting in 2024, the SAT exam has transitioned to an online and digital format, setting it apart from the previous version.
The new Digital SAT offers an additional 43% time allocation for each question compared to the old SAT, granting test-takers more time to respond. Additionally, the exam’s duration is shorter, and the SAT format has undergone modifications. This article specifically delves into the syllabus for each section of the SAT that undergoes evaluation.
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What is the SAT exam syllabus?
The SAT Syllabus primarily covers subjects that students have studied in school. SAT preparation becomes more manageable if you’ve excelled in these subjects during your academic years. Starting in 2024, the SAT exam has transitioned to an online and digital format, setting it apart from the previous version. The new Digital SAT offers an additional 43% time allocation for each question compared to the old SAT, granting test-takers more time to respond. Additionally, the exam’s duration is shorter, and the SAT format has undergone modifications. This article specifically delves into the syllabus for each section of the SAT that undergoes evaluation.
SAT portion-wise syllabus
The SAT exam syllabus encompasses mathematics, reading, writing, and language. The reading and writing sections cover various subjects, from physics and psychology to history and the social sciences. The math section includes algebra, data analysis, problem-solving, and advanced mathematics. There are two types of SAT exams:
- SAT General Test
- SAT Subject Test
SAT Paper Pattern
Digital paper
| Digital Parameters | Digital Reading & Writing (RW) Section | Digital Math Section |
|---|---|---|
| Format | Divided into Two Stages: One assesses the Reading section, while the other focuses on the Writing section, each with its own separate time allocation. | Divided into Two Stages: The math section is covered through two separately timed modules. |
| Test length | 1st module:
| 1st module:
|
2nd module:
| 2nd module:
| |
| Time Duration | 1st module: 32 minutes 2nd module: 32 minutes | 1st module: 35 minutes 2nd module: 35 minutes |
| Total Questions | 54 | 44 |
| Total Time Allocated | 64 minutes | 70 minutes |
| Scores Reported | Total score calculation: RW + Math section scores | |
| Question Type(s) | Discrete; MCQs with four options | MCQ (75%) and student-produced response (SPR)(25%) |
| Topics Tested | Literature, History / Social Studies, Humanities and Science | Science, Social Science, and real-world related topics |
| Informational Graphics | Tested, includes – tables, bar graphs, line graphs | Also tested |
Pen and Paper Exam
The SAT exam pattern for 2023 is outlined in the table below, detailing the breakdown for
Pen and Paper Exam
The SAT exam pattern for 2024 is outlined in the table below, detailing the breakdown for Stashed changes each test section. The total exam duration is four hours, including breaks.
| Section | Questions | Duration | Score range |
|---|---|---|---|
| SAT Reading | 52 multiple-choice questionsz | 65 minutes | Evidence-based Reading & Writing score 200 to 800 |
| Break | 10 minutes | ||
| SAT Writing & Language | 44 multiple-choice questions | 35 minutes | |
| No Calculator – Math | 20 (15 multiple-choice and 5 Grid in questions) | 25 minutes | Math score 200 to 800 |
| Break | 5 minutes | ||
| Yes Calculator – Math | 38 (30 multiple-choice and 8 Grid in questions) | 55 minutes | |
| Break | 2 minutes | ||
| SAT Essay (Optional) | 1 prompt | 50 minutes | Reading 2 to 8 Analysis 2 to 8 Writing 2 to 8 |
Overview of SAT Exam Sections
Writing: This section comprises 11 questions that task candidates with identifying sentence errors. After correcting the necessary, candidates must replace the sentences with appropriate alternatives.
Reading: With 11 questions, this section centers on reading passages to evaluate the candidate’s comprehension of written text.
Maths: In this section, candidates are presented with 58 questions to be completed within 80 minutes. The questions predominantly cover topics in Algebra, Geometry, Statistics, and Probability.
SAT English syllabus (Reading & Writing)
The table below provides an overview of the integrated testing areas for the SAT Reading and Writing sections in the new Digital exam, effective from 2024. Subsequently, you will find a comprehensive breakdown of these testing areas
| Reading & Writing Section Areas | Skill / Knowledge Testing Areas | Question Distribution & Weightage |
|---|---|---|
| Information and Ideas |
| Weightage: 26% Questions: 12-14 |
| Craft and Structure |
| Weightage: 28% Questions: 13-15 |
| Expression of Ideas | Rhetorical Synthesis Transitions | Weightage: 20% Questions: 8-12 |
| Standard English Conventions |
| Weightage: 26% Questions: 11-15 |
SAT exam maths syllabus
| Sections | Testing portions | Weightage |
|---|---|---|
| Algebra |
| 35% |
| Data Analysis and Problem-Solving |
| 15% |
| Advanced Math |
| |
| Geometry and Trigonometry |
| 15% |
Frequently Asked Questions
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What subjects are covered in the SAT exam syllabus?
The SAT exam syllabus includes three main sections: Mathematics, Reading, and Writing and Language. The Mathematics section assesses mathematical concepts, algebra, data analysis, problem-solving, and advanced math topics. The Reading and Writing sections focus on reading comprehension, grammar, and language usage.
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How can I prepare for the SAT exam syllabus effectively?
Effective SAT preparation involves reviewing and practicing relevant content from your school curriculum, using official SAT study materials and practice tests, and considering additional test preparation resources, such as test prep courses and tutoring.
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Is the SAT syllabus the same for all test takers worldwide?
Yes, the SAT syllabus is standardized and consistent for all test takers globally. The content and topics assessed in the SAT exam are the same for all students, regardless of their location.
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Are calculators allowed for the entire Mathematics section of the SAT exam?
No, calculators are not allowed for the entire Mathematics section. While a calculator is permitted for one part of the Mathematics section, the other must be completed without a calculator. Specific details about calculator use are provided in the SAT test instructions
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Are there any specific books recommended for SAT preparation?
The College Board, the organization that administers the SAT, offers official SAT study guides and practice tests that are highly recommended. Additionally, there are many other reputable test prep books and online resources available to help you prepare.
