The SAT is a standardized test that evaluates verbal and mathematical ability in college applicants. Students usually take the test in their junior and/or senior year of high school.The 2016 version includes two required sections (Evidence-Based Reading and Writing, and Math), along with an optional Essay section. One of the most important new features of the 2016 SAT is expanded scoring. Students receive composite scores of 400 to 1600, built from the Evidence-Based Reading and Writing and Math section scores of 200 to 800. Test-takers are also given scores for individual tests within the sections in addition to sub-scores on specific verbal and mathematical skills. Cross-test scores reflect student performance on certain analytical abilities that are assessed in both required sections. Essays are scored separately by two independent readers, and these essay scores do not affect any other scoring area.

SAT exam pattern comprises of two sections – Evidence-based Reading and Writing (EBRW) and Math, with an optional essay section. Both sections, EBRW and Math, are scored on a range of 200-800.  Even though optional, SAT essay score is required by a number of colleges during the application process. The score range for SAT Essay section is 2 to 8. 

• Both sections of EBRW questions are multiple-choice questions
• Math is divided into two sets of questions – one to be attempted without using a calculator and one with a calculator
• Most of the Mathematics questions are MCQs; some questions are grid-ins i.e. students must solve and fill in the answer on the bubble sheet
• The exam is 3 hours long. SAT with Essay is 3 hours and 50 minutes long.
• There is a time limit of 100 minutes to attempt EBRW and 80 minutes for Math.

Reading

This section is a part of the Evidence-Based Reading and Writing component of the SAT. It consists of 5 passages and a total of 52 questions. You are required to read and understand these passages and answer the questions that follow within 65 minutes.

• Each 500-750 words-long passage may be taken from:
• Classic or contemporary work of US or world literature
• Document or speech related to the Constitution and founding of the US
• A selection about economics, psychology, sociology, etc.

Each passage is followed by 10-11 multiple-choice questions with four answer choices. The questions can be broadly classified into the following types:

• Main idea or central theme of the passage
• Explanation or inference of a phrase used in the passage
• Function of a phrase or sentence in the passage
• Style, tone, perspective or attitude of the author
• Evidence that supports a stance
• Data analysis on the basis of diagrams, charts or graphs

At Competition Forum we expose you to the best of American Literature. We have compiled a collection of write-ups from top newspapers, journals and books. At Competition Forum you learn the nuances of critical reading.  

Writing and Language

This section is a part of the Evidence-Based Reading and Writing component of the SAT. It consists of 4 passages and a total of 44 multiple-choice questions. You are required to read and understand these passages and answer the questions that follow in 35 minutes.

Each passage may be taken from articles or write-ups related to:

• Careers
• Science
• History or Social Studies
• Humanities

Commonly-asked question types are based on:

• Word choice regarding text, style or tone
• Structural changes to ensure correctness or improve readability
• Sentence structure, punctuation, grammar usage involving verb tense, parallel construction, subject-verb agreement, etc.

At Competition Forum, we teach you English Grammar the way it should be taught. Our grammar training is particularly suited to non-native English speakers.

Math

The Math component of the SAT has two parts: Math Test-Calculator and Math Test-No calculator. Math Test-Calculator has 38 questions to be answered within 55 minutes and Math Test-No Calculator has 20 questions to be answered within 25 minutes. The calculator part of the test involves complex calculations that necessitates the use of calculator. But if you are equipped with Competition Forum SAT techniques and strategies, you will not need to use a calculator even for complex quantitative problems. (click here to check SAT approved Calculators)

The Math test focuses on three core areas:

• Heart of Algebra

Linear equations with rational coefficients, system of linear equations(with no solution, finite or infinite solutions), linear inequalities in two variables and their systems, graphical representation of linear function.

• Problem-solving and Data Analysis

Percentages; ratio and proportion; unit conversion; equation of line or curve using a scatterplot; two-way tables to calculate conditional frequencies and conditional probabilities; association of variables or independence of events; estimation of a population parameter; calculation of mean, median, mode, range and standard deviation in statistics; evaluation of reports to check appropriateness of data collection methods.

• Passport to Advanced Math

Quadratic equations with rational coefficients; determination of the most suitable form of an expression; addition, subtraction, multiplication and division of polynomial equations; zeros and factors of polynomials, non-linear relationship between two variables, function notation, isolation of a variable by rearrangement of formula or equation.

SAT Essay

This is the optional component of the SAT. However, some universities require or recommend it. Check SAT essay requirements in your college of choice.

SAT essay allows you to demonstrate your reading, analysis and writing skills. You are given 50 minutes to read a 650-750 words-long passage and then write an analysis about how the author builds his or her argument. This type of question is a standard feature of the SAT essay. The passage, of course, varies each time. Keep in mind that you are required to analyse the author’s arguments and to identify the underlying premises and assumptions. So, refrain from stating your opinion. Take a look at the SAT Essay Guide to know more.

Indian students who have completed their 12 years of school education successfully from any recognized Indian board or university can take SAT for admission in the different streams available at various American colleges.

• Students in standards 11th or 12th are advised to take the SAT tests as they are for college admissions in USA
• A valid Indian passport is a must for candidates appearing for the test
• There is no minimum marks or age criteria for taking the SAT